Embark on an Unforgettable Sri Lankan Train Adventure: A Journey Through Time, Nature, and Culture Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Sri Lanka with a unique and unforgettable train adventure. Journey aboard historic railways, winding through lush tea plantations, verdant valleys, and along stunning coastlines. This is more than just transportation; it's a captivating exploration of Sri Lanka's rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Unveil the Enchantment of Sri Lanka's Hill Country Ascend into the cool embrace of Sri Lanka's central highlands aboard iconic trains. Witness emerald tea plantations blanketing the hillsides, a testament to the island's rich agricultural heritage. Capture the essence of this scenic paradise as you chug alongside nimble tea pluckers expertly harvesting leaves that will be transformed into world-renowned Ceylon tea. Explore charming hill stations like Ella, offering opportunities for scenic hikes, refreshing waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas. Embrace the Tranquility of Sri Lanka's Coast Let the rhythmic clatter of the train lull you into relaxation as you journey along Sri Lanka's sun-drenched coastline. Witness turquoise waters lapping at pristine beaches and swaying palm trees swaying gently in the breeze. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting a rich colonial history. Explore bustling harbors, imposing ramparts, and charming streets lined with local shops and cafes. Beyond Galle, discover idyllic beach towns and hidden coves, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun. Travel Through Time in Sri Lanka's Ancient Cities The Sri Lankan railway isn't just about scenic landscapes; it's a journey through time. Delve into the island's fascinating past by exploring ancient cities like Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stand in awe of magnificent ruins, towering stupas, and intricate monasteries that whisper tales of Sri Lanka's glorious past. Immerse yourself in the deep-rooted Buddhist traditions by witnessing saffron-clad monks tending to temple grounds and experiencing the peaceful serenity that permeates these ancient sites. Experience Authentic Sri Lankan Culture Your Sri Lankan train adventure is more than just sightseeing; it's a chance to connect with the warmth and hospitality of the Sri Lankan people. Strike up conversations with fellow passengers, learn a few basic Sinhala or Tamil phrases, and gain insights into local traditions and ways of life. Witness the rhythmic clanging of tea pluckers' baskets, observe farmers tending to their rice paddies, and experience the vibrant energy of bustling markets brimming with fresh produce and local crafts. Every interaction adds another layer of richness to your Sri Lankan adventure. A Sustainable and Memorable Way to Explore Choosing to travel by train is a responsible and sustainable way to explore Sri Lanka. It allows you to appreciate the passing scenery at a slower pace, minimizing your environmental footprint. The rhythmic clatter of the train, the breathtaking landscapes unfolding outside the window, and the encounters with friendly locals create memories that will last a lifetime. Plan Your Unforgettable Sri Lankan Train Adventure Today Sri Lanka's railways offer a unique and captivating way to explore the island nation. Whether you seek breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, or a chance to connect with the local people, a Sri Lankan train adventure has something for everyone. Start planning your unforgettable journey today and discover the magic of Sri Lanka, one train ride at a time!

This guide is a thorough overview of Sri Lanka's many riches, with a particular emphasis on touring by train. Also included are routes through the country utilizing the restored steam trains.

Aaron's train journey across all of Sri Lanka's rail lines continues.

As Aaron continues his quest to ride every rail line in Sri Lanka from end to end, he bears witness to the lingering effects of the country's civil war.

Experience 60 of the world’s greatest and most unforgettable train journeys, from classic long-distance trips like Western Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer and Darwin to Adelaide’s The Ghan, to little-known gems on regular commuting lines. We’ve always had a soft spot for trains. We know the moment a train pulls out of a station bound for somewhere fantastic is when the adventure truly starts. Amazing Train Journeys is the culmination of asking more than 200 travel writers for their absolute favourites. Some are epic international adventures, others short suburban routes along stunning coastline. There are incredible feats of engineering, trains that snake their way through mountain peaks, and even those which have achieved Unesco World Heritage status. Each profile contains practical information including ticket options, timetables and stops, plus inspiring photos and illustrated maps. Journeys include: Africa & the Middle East: Johannesburg to Cape Town (South Africa) Andimeshk to Dorud (Iran) Bulawayo to Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) The Americas: The California Zephyr (USA) Perurail’s Lake Titicaca Railway (Peru) The Serra Verde Express (Brazil) Asia: The Darjeeling Toy Train (India) The Reunification Express (Vietnam) Beijing to Shanghai by High-Speed Rail (China) Europe: The Glacier Express (Switzerland) Belgrade-to-Bar Railway (Serbia & Montenegro) London to Fort William on the Caledonian Sleeper (UK) Oceania: South Coast Line (Australia) The TranzAlpine (New Zealand) The Northern Explorer (New Zealand) About Lonely Planet: Lonely Planet is a leading travel media company and the world’s number one travel guidebook brand, providing both inspiring and trustworthy information for every kind of traveller since 1973. Over the past four decades, we’ve printed over 145 million guidebooks and grown a dedicated, passionate global community of travellers. You’ll also find our content online, on mobile, video and in 14 languages, 12 international magazines, armchair and lifestyle books, ebooks, and more. Important Notice: The digital edition of this book may not contain all of the images found in the physical edition.

The author has done years of research into the Sri Lankan Railway system and has produced a masterpiece.