What to expect
- Reserved observation-class or first-class seats where available
- The Nanu Oya to Ella section, three hours and the best of the line
- Your vehicle and luggage meet you at the destination station
- Tea, vadai and roti sold through the windows at every stop
Where to do it
- Nanu Oya to Ella, three hours, the classic section
- Kandy to Nanu Oya, four hours through Hatton and the Kotmale valley
- Colombo to Galle, a coastal line that runs beside the surf
Best season
Year round. Clearest views January to March; the line is atmospheric in mist too.
Good to know
Do not hang out of doorways for photographs, because there are tunnels, poles and passing trains. Keep valuables in front of you at busy stations.