For your informationTransport
Colombo to Badulla trains: only part of the line is running
Upcountry line trains now run from Colombo Fort to Peradeniya and Gampola, and between Nanu Oya and Badulla. The section in between is still closed after Cyclone Ditwah, so there is no through train to Badulla yet.
- Area
- Colombo, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Badulla
From
Cyclone Ditwah damaged the Upcountry railway line. Services are coming back in stages, and the Colombo to Badulla journey cannot yet be made by train in one go.
What is running
- Colombo Fort to Peradeniya and Gampola: services resumed on 2 October 2026. The Podi Menike made a trial run from Colombo Fort at 5:55 am with the Transport Minister and Railway Department officials on board.
- Nanu Oya to Badulla: four trips a day have run since 20 June 2026.
What is not running
- The line between Gampola, Kandy and Nanu Oya is still closed, and no reopening date has been announced. Authorities have said repair work on the Rambukkana to Kandy section is planned for completion this year.
Planning your trip
- Do not book a through Colombo to Ella or Badulla train journey until Sri Lanka Railways confirms the full line has reopened.
- To reach Ella or Badulla from Colombo, travel by road or bus to Nanu Oya or Bandarawela and join the train there if you want the scenic ride.
- Check the timetable on the day of travel. Services can change at short notice.