Rail Tours

Start your day with a visit to Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic), Sri Lanka’s most revered Buddhist temple, where you can observe rituals and receive blessings.

From here, you will be transferred to the Kandy railway station for your first scenic train ride. Board the train to Nanu Oya, a breathtaking journey through rolling hills, tea plantations, and mist-covered mountains. The slow train ride allows you to take in the serene landscapes of Sri Lanka’s central highlands.

Upon arrival at Nanu Oya, a private vehicle will take you to Heritance Tea Factory Hotel in Nuwara Eliya. On the way, stop at Gregory Lake for a peaceful evening boat ride.

Spend the morning at a tea factory, where you will learn about Sri Lanka’s world-famous tea production. Participate in tea plucking, guided by local tea pickers, and witness the traditional process of turning fresh leaves into the finest Ceylon tea.

After exploring Nuwara Eliya town, head back to Nanu Oya train station and embark on another spectacular train journey to Ella. This stretch is considered one of the most beautiful train rides in the world, passing through lush green valleys, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic mountain views.

Upon arrival in Ella, check in at 98 Acres Resort and Spa, a luxury eco-retreat nestled in the hills.

Begin the day with a sunrise hike to Little Adam’s Peak, a short but rewarding trek that offers panoramic views of the Ella Gap and surrounding hills. Later, visit the Nine Arch Bridge, an architectural marvel hidden amidst the jungle.

Spend the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the charming town of Ella, enjoying the cool mountain air, or relaxing at your hotel.

Depart from Ella and take a scenic drive towards Yala, stopping en route at the famous Ravana Falls, a stunning waterfall named after the legendary King Ravana from the Ramayana epic.

Upon reaching Yala National Park, embark on a thrilling jeep safari, where you have a chance to spot leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.

Check in at Jetwing Yala, a luxurious eco-friendly hotel on the border of the national park.

After breakfast, travel towards Mirissa, one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful beach destinations. Upon arrival, check in at Sri Sharavi Beach Villas and spend the afternoon unwinding on the golden sands.

For those interested, an optional visit to the Weligama Fish Market is available, where you can witness the daily catch brought in by local fishermen.

Wake up early for an exciting whale watching excursion off the coast of Mirissa, where you might spot blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins in their natural habitat.

Later, head to Matara railway station and board the train to Bentota. This journey offers a completely different scenery, with views of coastal lagoons, fishing villages, and palm-fringed beaches.

Once in Bentota, visit the Turtle Hatchery, where baby turtles are nurtured before being released into the ocean. In the evening, take a tranquil boat ride along the Madu River, passing through mangroves and spotting diverse wildlife.

Check in at Villa Bentota for a peaceful overnight stay.

On the final day, board a train from Bentota to Colombo, the last stretch of your rail tour. Arriving at Colombo Fort Station, begin a city tour of Colombo, covering key attractions:

• Pettah Trading Market – A bustling shopping area with a variety of goods

• Gangaramaya Temple – A historic Buddhist temple showcasing a mix of Sri Lankan, Thai, and Indian influences

• Galle Face Green – A scenic promenade along the Indian Ocean

• Old Parliament Building – A colonial-era architectural landmark

• Independence Square – A historical monument celebrating Sri Lanka’s independence

• BMICH – A grand conference hall known for its striking design

After a fulfilling day exploring Colombo, check in at Hotel Tintagel, where you will spend your final night before heading to the airport for your departure.