Everything Lanka

🚉 Sri Lanka Railways: How It Works

Sri Lanka’s railway network connects major cities, tourist hotspots, and hidden gems. Famous for its scenic upcountry routes and coastal stretches, it remains one of the most affordable and beautiful ways to travel the island.

The most popular lines include:

• Colombo – Kandy – Badulla (Upcountry Line): Known for breathtaking mountain and tea estate views.
• Colombo – Galle – Matara (Coastal Line): Stunning ocean scenery.
• Colombo – Anuradhapura – Jaffna (Northern Line): Fast and modern services to the north.

🖥️ Booking Train Tickets Online

Online booking is available for reserved seats. Here are the best platforms:

• Official Railway Seat Reservation — NIC or passport required.
• 12Go Asia — Tourist‑friendly with email confirmations.
• Exporail & Rajadhani — Luxury coaches with A/C and refreshments.

Tickets can be reserved up to 30 days in advance. Book early during weekends and holidays.

🏢 Buying Tickets at Railway Stations

Perfect for unreserved travel or last‑minute plans.

• Colombo Fort Station: The main hub with several counters.
• Reservation Counters: Open from 5:30 AM on weekdays.
• Tourist Counters: Available at major stations during peak seasons.

🪑 Train Classes Explained

• 1st Class: A/C or observation deck seating; quiet and comfortable.
• 2nd Class: Fans, spacious seats, sometimes reserved.
• 3rd Class: Cheapest and busiest; a cultural experience.

📱 Mobile Apps for Booking

• Mobitel mTicketing: SMS‑based booking for Mobitel users.
• Dialog Rail Booking: Available via the Genie app and SMS.

🧭 Essential Travel Tips

• Arrive 20–30 minutes early for departures.
• Carry your passport or NIC when traveling.
• Snack vendors may be limited — bring your own.
• Download offline maps.

🚐 Other Transport Options

• Expressway Buses: Fast A/C buses; book at busbooking.lk.
• SLTB Intercity: Reserved red buses.
• PickMe / Uber: Best for short city trips.

💳 Refunds & Ticket Changes

• Cancel or modify tickets directly through your booking platform.
• Station refunds require visiting the issuing counter.
• Most refunds must be requested 24 hours in advance.