A Breathtaking Journey from Haputale to Polgahawela

Exploring Sri Lanka by Train: A Breathtaking Journey from Haputale to Polgahawela

Sri Lanka’s railway network is one of the most scenic and budget-friendly ways to travel across the country. As an undergraduate student living in Kurunegala, I have always relied on trains for long-distance travel. One of my most cherished journeys is the mesmerizing train ride from Haputale to Polgahawela, a route filled with breathtaking landscapes, historic stations, and the true essence of Sri Lankan beauty.

The Beauty of the Haputale-Polgahawela Train Ride

This journey is not just about reaching a destination—it’s an experience filled with stunning natural wonders. The train glides through misty mountains, lush tea estates, enchanting waterfalls, and winding rivers. The diverse landscapes, from the cool hill country to the warm lowlands, make it a dream route for photographers and nature lovers alike. The roadside is adorned with vibrant flowers, towering trees, and serene villages, creating a picture-perfect setting at every turn.

The Magic of Train Travel in Sri Lanka

Train travel is the cheapest and most convenient way to explore Sri Lanka. It is not only affordable for students and budget travelers but also offers unparalleled views that no other mode of transport can match. Despite traveling this route so many times, I always feel like it’s never enough. Every journey brings new experiences, new sights, and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of my country.

A Journey Through History: The Stations We Passed

Traveling through this route means stopping at many iconic railway stations. Based on my journey, I recall passing through around 53 stations, I can order that in my mind;

 haputhale,idalgashinna,ohiya,pattipola,ambewela,parakramapura,nanuoya,radella,great western, watagoda,thalawakele, kotagala, galkandawaththa, Hatton, rosella, ihala watawala, watawala,dekinda, galboda,penrose, inguruoya, hightenford, nawalapitiya, warakawa, pallegama, ulapane, warakapitiya, thembiligoda, wallahagoda, gampola,kahatapitiya, gangathilaka,weligalla, polgaha anga, gelioya, koshinna, nanu oya, peradeniya junction, barammane, pilimathalawa, kadugannawa, weralugolla, balana, makehelwawa, ihala kotte, gangoda, yatiwaldeniya, kadigamuwa, rambukkana,yatagama,tismalpola,panaliya,polgahawela. 

including:

**Haputale** – A scenic hill-country town known for its tea estates and cool climate.

**Idalgashinna** – One of Sri Lanka’s most breathtaking railway stations, nestled between Haputale and Ohiya. 

**Ohiya & Pattipola** – Home to Sri Lanka’s highest railway station at 1,879.5 meters above sea level.

**Nanu Oya** – The gateway to Nuwara Eliya, known as 'Little England.'

**Hatton & Thalawakele** – Famous for tea plantations and stunning waterfalls.

**Nawalapitiya & Gampola** – Historic towns surrounded by lush greenery.

**Peradeniya Junction** – A major railway hub near Kandy.

**Kadugannawa & Balana** – Known for their colonial-era railway history and scenic mountain views.

**Polgahawela** – Our final destination, a major railway junction connecting different regions of Sri Lanka.

Each station along the way holds a unique charm and history, making the journey more than just a train ride—it’s a trip through time and culture.

  

Dreaming of Nuwara Eliya

Even though we frequently travel this route, one destination remains on our bucket list—Nuwara Eliya. The thought of extending our journey beyond Nanu Oya, exploring the mist-covered hills, and experiencing the colonial charm of Nuwara Eliya excites us. One day, we will embark on that adventure, and we know it will be an incredible journey.

Writing This in the Moment

As I write this blog post, I am on the very train I am describing. The cold breeze seeps through the open windows, and I sip on a warm cup of coffee while watching the breathtaking scenery pass by. There’s something magical about experiencing this beauty firsthand, feeling the rhythm of the train, and being surrounded by the untouched wonders of nature.

Sri Lanka’s railway system is not just a means of transport—it’s a gateway to some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. If you ever get the chance to travel by train in Sri Lanka, don’t miss this route. It’s an experience that will stay with you forever.

Ishadi Rathnayake