Nuwara Eliya - Sri Lanka

The train journey from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy or Colombo makes an interesting alternative to the car. The journey time is much the same, but the scenery is even more spectacular. The nearest railway station to Nuwara Eliya is located at Nanu Oya, a small village approximately five kilometres distant and a car journey of some fifteen minutes. From here, express trains operate on a regular basis to Colombo Fort Station and to Peradeniya – the closest the railway gets to Kandy. The diesel train to Peradeniya takes three hours to complete its journey from Nanu Oya as it winds its way cautiously along the single track passing pretty hillsides carpeted with neat regimental rows of tea bushes. After Peradeniy, the train leaves the tea estates behind and the terraced plantations give way to slopes of thick verdant jungle, pretty stations with such romantic names as Balana and Kadigomuwa pass by where a small number of passengers wait for the local train on platforms decorated with pretty hanging baskets of colourful orchids swaying as the train steadily rumbles through – short tunnels hewn out of rock face serve as immortal memorials to this fete of mans determination and ingenuity - constructed by imported labour from the Indian sub-continent under the direction of the pioneers who overcame natural obstacles to make the railway a possibility. The villagers habitually use the track as a pathway guiding them between villages and throughout the journey the engines whistle continues to blast out its warning to the local populace of its impending approach. Eventually the train reaches the coastal plain and finally is able to make some speed as it rushes on the final leg of its journey to the capital. Seats are reserved in the Observation carriage, which offers passengers a degree of comfort – if you are considering making the train journey you should be aware that there is no dining car so it is prudent to arrange a packed lunch with the hotel in Nuwara Eliya the night before travelling.

Please note you will need to telephone us and speak to a member of the team to reserve accommodation in Nuwara Eliya

Additional Nuwara Eliya information

• The 'Up Country'
• A brief history
• Elephants never forget
• Tea
• Horton Plains