How long is the train journey from Colombo to Jaffna?
I am planning to take the Yal Devi express. Does it have first class air conditioning and what is the scenery like on the way up north.
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2 Answers from travellers
The express train takes roughly six to seven hours. Yes, the Yal Devi has a first class AC cabin which is very comfortable. The scenery changes dramatically from the lush green of the south to the dry, palmyra filled landscapes of the north. It is a very smooth ride compared to the hill country trains.
Try to book your tickets at least two weeks in advance as the AC cars fill up quickly with people visiting family in the north. The view as you cross the Elephant Pass lagoon is the highlight of the trip.
Scam Watch: colombo
Driver claims the meter is broken and quotes an inflated flat rate. Common on arrival at airport or railway stations when tourists are tired and disoriented.
Drivers wearing official-looking uniforms claim to be "government-approved" and charge 3-5x normal rates. They may have fake badges or ID cards.
Women with babies approach asking you to buy milk powder at a nearby shop (not cash). The shop is run by accomplices and charges 5-10x normal price.
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