Sri Lanka train scenic routes ranked - beyond Kandy-Ella?
3 Answers from travellers
Ranking scenic Sri Lanka trains: (1) Kandy-Ella (obviously - tea estates, misty valleys, Nine Arch Bridge, world-famous). (2) Colombo-Galle (coastal main line - ocean views most of the way, waves nearly hitting train). (3) Ella-Badulla (extension after Ella - similar scenic quality, quieter). (4) Colombo-Kandy (paddy fields, small towns, less dramatic but pleasant 3.5 hours). (5) Colombo-Jaffna (long 7-8 hours through dry zone - less scenic but culturally interesting). (6) Colombo-Trincomalee (via Habarana - some jungle sections).
Underrated: Ella to Badulla is same-scenery-continuation of Kandy-Ella but almost empty (most tourists get off at Ella). Extra 2-hour ride to Badulla for genuine tea country solitude and photography. Book cheap 2nd class - you'll likely have a whole coach to yourself.
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