Sri Lanka Railways
Sri Lanka Railways have earned the trust of passengers. They provide uninterrupted communication between different settlements of the country. Locals prefer to travel by train and bus. The approximate length of the country's railroad is 1447 km. Trains run according to schedule, without delays or disruptions in work.
Features of the Sri Lankan railway system
In Sri Lanka, the quality of rail services is greatly influenced by natural factors such as alluvial deposits and rubble. However, trains are considered the most reliable means of transportation around the country, as are buses. The railway system is managed by a national company «Sri Lanka Railways» (SLR). This organization is the sole owner of the state's railways. The main railway line runs through the center of the country and connects popular tourism centers.
In the railway network of Sri Lanka, there are 9 lines and the main station of Colombo Fort. Train schedules are presented on the company's website «Sri Lanka Railways» - www.railway.gov.lk. Intensive rail links are maintained between major cities. From the main station in Colombo trains follow to Negambo, Kandy, Bentota, Polonnaruwa and other settlements. The disadvantage of the railway system is the insufficient number of trains. They run quite rarely. For example, on the Colombo - Kandy line, 5 railway trains move a day. Comfortable conditions are maintained for passengers of branded trains.
Routes and tickets
All Sri Lankan trains passing through Colombo dock there. Passengers have to change trains. A feature of the railway service is the frequent delays of trains. The trains use a division of seats into three classes. To take the right seat, the ticket must be booked long before the intended trip. On many routes, trains are overcrowded. The fare depends on the route and class. First class seats are more expensive. In the first class, passengers are offered comfortable berths and additional services. In the second and third class, the comfort level is much lower.
Sri Lanka has excursion routes for tourists. Trains run by them are owned by private individuals. Rail transport is perfect for sightseeing travel over long distances. It is cheap and allows you to see the country. The trip from Colombo to the farthest station will cost approximately Rs 300.
