The Sri Lanka Railway network

The Railway network comprises nine lines radiating from Colombo, which connect most major population and industrial centers.

Main Line

The Main Line starts from Colombo and runs east and north past the rapidly developing centers of Ragama, Gampaha, Veyangoda, and Polgahawela. At Rambukkana, the Main Line begins its steep climb into the hills of the upcountry. Between Balana and Kadugannawa, the track clings to the side of sheer cliffs, offering passengers spectacular views of Batalegala ('Bible' Rock). The Main Line then continues its climb through the scenic tea country, connecting busy local market centers at Gampola, Nawalapitiya, and Hatton before reaching Nanu-Oya. This is the connection to the former colonial resort of Nuwara Eliya, still popular for its temperate climate, classic hotels, and British-style gardens. The Main Line continues its ascent to the summit at Pattipola, 6,226 feet above sea level, before descending past Bandarawela to Badulla. In the upcountry, passengers are rewarded with views of tea gardens, mountains and valleys, cascading torrents and waterfalls.

Matale Line

The Matale Line branches off the Main Line at Peradeniya Junction, near the world-famous Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. It connects to Kandy, home of the Sri Dalada Maligawa, which houses the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Lord Buddha, before descending to Matale.

Coast Line

The Coast Line runs south from Colombo, following the edge of the Indian Ocean. It offers passengers views of tropical beaches and coconut palms. This line links the regional towns of Moratuwa, Panadura, and Kalutara South, as well as popular beach resorts at Aluthgama, Ambalangoda, and Hikkaduwa. The line continues past Galle, which is famous for its historic and well-preserved Dutch Fort, before terminating at Matara.

Kelani Valley Line

The Kelani Valley Line extends from Colombo south and east to Avissawella. This was originally built as a narrow gauge line and was converted to dual gauge between 1991 and 1997.

Puttalam Line

The Puttalam Line branches off the Main Line at Ragama, extending north past Negombo, an important regional town and tourist centre. It also links other busy market towns and fishing villages.

Northern Line

The Northern Line branches northward from the Main Line at Polgahawela, passing Kurunegala, the capital of Wayamba Province, before continuing to the historic cultural and religious center of Anuradhapura. Anuradhapura was established in the 4th century B.C. and contains many sites of religious and archaeological interest. Service is now curtailed beyond Vavuniya and on the Mannar Line.

Batticaloa Line

The Batticaloa Line branches eastward from the Northern Line at Maho, to Polonnaruwa, site of an ancient capital in the 11th century and home to many historic monuments.

Trincomalee Line

The Trincomalee Line branches north and east from the Batticaloa Line at Gal-Oya Junction and extends to Trincomalee.