Sri Lanka Railway stations are more than travel stops. They tell stories of colonial charm, vintage architecture, and a nation’s progress. Uniquely, many of these stations are over 100 years old. They still stand proud, blending history and function.
Let us explore some of the most historically important railway stations in Sri Lanka.
Colombo Fort Railway Station
Colombo Fort Station is the heart of the rail network in Sri Lanka. Built in 1917 during the British colonial era, this station replaced an earlier one in the same area.
British engineers designed it in Victorian style, using brick, wood, and colonial finishes. Its arched doorways and wide platforms reflect European influence. The design is much like the Manchester Victoria station.
The British built the station on land reclaimed from the Beira Lake
At present, the station consists of 10 platforms and caters. It consists of passenger waiting rooms, changing rooms (utility rooms), and cafeterias.
The station has special arrangements for disabled persons. The main seat reservation counter of the Sri Lanka Railways is at the Colombo Fort Railway Station.
Colombo Fort is also a symbol of the growth of the railway. It connects to all major cities like Kandy (115 km), Galle (116 km), and Jaffna (396 km). Because of its central location, it’s a key landmark in Colombo.
Kandy Railway Station
Next, we head to Kandy, the hill capital. The Kandy Station opened in 1867 as part of the first railway line from Colombo. British planters needed a way to transport coffee, and later tea, to the port. So, they built a railway line through the hills.
The location of the station, just 1 km from the Temple of the Tooth, makes it historically important.
Kandy Railway Station features both Modernist and Victorian architecture. Architecturally, it features red-tiled roofs, wooden beams, and colonial-style pillars. The station building highlights Art Moderne style, incorporating curving forms and long horizontal lines.
Kandy Station is 115 km from Colombo Fort. Today, it is one of the most scenic stops on the upcountry line.
Peradeniya Junction railway station
This station, built on the main railway line, is situated between Kathaluwa and Koshinna railway stations.
Peradeniya railway station is one of the oldest railway stations in Sri Lanka. It was operational in 1867 when the rail line was extended from Ambepussa to Kandy.
On 15 January 1873, it became a junction station with the construction of a rail line from Peradeniya to Gampola. Resulting which the station name being the Peradeniya Junction Railway Station.
Nanu Oya Railway Station
Located near Nuwara Eliya, Nanu Oya Station opened in 1885. Back then, it was the main entry point for British officials vacationing in the cool hills. Although Nuwara Eliya has no station of its own, Nanu Oya is just 8 km away.
The station sits 1,616 metres above sea level. It is 206 km from Colombo. Its misty surroundings and quaint design make it a favourite among train lovers. The building still has its original brick structure and high-pitched roof.
All trains, including the Podi Menike and Udarata Menike express trains, service the station. Nanu Oya is part of the picturesque journey on the Main Line.
Galle Railway Station
Galle Station has a unique story. It was the first terminus of the southern railway line. Built in 1894, it helped link Colombo with the southern coast. During British rule, Galle was a key port city. The station helped move goods quickly to the harbour.
The Galle station is an example of modernism. The station conforms to the modernist style, where the station building is simple but elegant. Its minimalist walls offer a contrast to the highly ornamented, traditional, and colonial architecture.
Located 116 km from Colombo, Galle Station is close to the historic Galle Fort. Its importance lies in how it supported maritime trade, and now the tourists visiting Galle
Galle station is served by the Ruhunu Kumari, Galu Kumari, and Samudra Devi trains. Various other services also operate at Galle.
Jaffna Railway Station
Jaffna Station, opened in 1905, was once a bustling hub in northern Sri Lanka. It connected the north to the south via the Yal Devi train. Unfortunately, civil war halted rail services in the 1990s. The station was damaged and abandoned.
On 13 June 1990, a Yal Devi train rolled into Jaffna. But it could not return to Colombo as the railway track had been destroyed. Incidentally, it would be the last rail service into Jaffna.
However, in 2014, the station was rebuilt. Today, it is a symbol of peace and unity. Located 396 km from Colombo, Jaffna Station now welcomes passengers again. The new structure blends modern design with memories of its past.
Bandarawela Railway Station
This little station packs a lot of history. Bandarawela Station opened in 1893, marking the end of the line for a time. It lies 258 km from Colombo, nestled in tea country.
Its architecture reflects colonial station design, with stone walls and sloping roofs. Many tourists use it today as a gateway to Ella. The station preserves original signal levers and name boards, adding to its charm.
All the trains that run on the Main Line, including the Podi Menike and Udarata Menike express trains stop at the station.
The station has a G2 locomotive on permanent display at the station. The diesel shunter locomotive was built by the North British Locomotive Company and operated between 1951 and 1986.
Demodara Railway Station
Demodara is one of the most fascinating stations in the world. Opened in 1921, it is known for its looping railway track. Trains pass under the station through a tunnel, then loop back over it!
Engineers had to design this loop to manage the steep climb. Located about 277 km from Colombo and near Ella, Demodara is an engineering marvel. It is considered the only loop in the world with a railway station situated exactly over a tunnel at spiral loop
The station building is simple but historically rich.
All the trains that run on the Main Line, including the Podi Menike and Udarata Menike express trains stop at the station.
Anuradhapura Railway Station
Anuradhapura Station opened in 1903 and lies in the heart of the ancient city of Sri Lanka. It is 205 km from Colombo. During the colonial period, this line supported tourism and trade to the North Central Province.
The station is served by Sri Lanka Railways, with Northern Line services, such as the Yal Devi, calling at the station.
The station has colonial-era architecture with tall windows and wooden trusses. Its historical importance comes from how it helped people access one of the oldest cities in the country.
Badulla Railway Station
Badulla marks the end of the Main Line. Built in 1924, it is one of the last stations constructed by the British. Located 292 km from Colombo, it’s a peaceful spot surrounded by hills and plantations.
The building is small but elegant, featuring wooden floors and decorative railings. The final stretch to Badulla includes scenic spots like the Nine Arches Bridge and Demodara Loop.
Badulla railway station is the last station of the Upcountry Railroad. The station also consists of a turning table, which could turn the engines.
The trains that run on the Main Line, including the Podi Menike and Udarata Menike express trains, end at the station.
Why These Stations Matter
These stations show how Sri Lanka moved from a plantation economy to a connected nation. The British built them for business, but today they serve locals, tourists, and history lovers.
The architecture, from red-brick facades to wooden rafters, still stands strong. Though modern changes are happening, many stations maintain their original features.
Tips for Visiting
- Colombo to Kandy: 3–4 hours. Book an air-conditioned carriage for comfort.
- To Nuwara Eliya: Stop at Nanu Oya and take a taxi.
- To Ella and Badulla: Try the slow scenic route. It’s unforgettable.
- To Jaffna: Use the Yal Devi express for faster travel.
Final Thoughts
These historical railway stations in Sri Lanka are time capsules. They bring together colonial history, local culture, and breathtaking views. The next time you hop on a train, look around. That old station may have more stories than you think.
Sri Lanka is a small country. Hurry! Get your backpack and hop aboard a train to experience the history of Sri Lanka Railways.
