26 September 2013
Joy Ride through Sri Lanka’s Tea Plantations
Embark on a magical journey through Sri Lanka’s tea country, where breathtaking landscapes and lush plantations unfold at every turn. Discover the authentic charm of this island by train for an unforgettable adventure.
The Winding Tea Plantations of Sri Lanka
Exploring the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea region by train is a captivating experience. From the vibrant greenery covering mountain slopes to the charming villages tucked among the hills, the journey promises views unlike any other. Hop on a train from Hatton or Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya) for an immersive ride through the tea gardens—a lush, living tapestry that’s especially enchanting at sunrise. New for 2025, special tourist trains such as the “Special Calypso” and the “Ella Odyssey” offer unique photo stops along the Up-Country Line, including at the famous Demodara Station. These enhanced stops allow travelers and photography enthusiasts to capture the most scenic vistas, including the iconic 9-Arch Bridge and sweeping plantations.
Begin your trip to Sri Lanka with this legendary rail adventure. The Colombo to Badulla route, especially the stretch from Nuwara Eliya to Ella, remains one of the world’s top scenic train journeys, best enjoyed outside the monsoon months of April, October, and November.
The Legacy of Sri Lankan Tea
The train journey pauses at Nanu Oya station near Nuwara Eliya, where the British colonial legacy comes alive through well-tended gardens and elegant old mansions. Sri Lanka’s move from coffee to tea in 1867, after disease ravaged coffee crops, changed the country forever—paving the way for its emergence as one of the world’s top tea producers and exporters.
Life Among the Tea Pluckers
A distinctive part of the ride is catching a glimpse of the skilled tea pluckers at work, harvesting leaves at impressive speed. Originally from South India, these workers gather up to 20 kg of tea leaves daily, contributing to the industry’s enduring success.
The Journey from Leaf to Cup
Once harvested, the tea leaves are dried for up to 18 hours, then steamed and oxidized to develop their sought-after flavors. The resulting "green gold" is carefully selected, packed, and auctioned in Colombo to eager buyers from around the world. Today, travelers can also witness these traditional processes in tea factories along the route, adding an educational dimension to the adventure.
Practical Tips for Your 2025 Train Adventure
For an optimal experience, book First Class Air Conditioned tickets (approximately LKR 5,000) in advance, and try to choose morning departures to maximize comfort and views. Observation cars and open windows offer the best photo opportunities and contact with local life and landscapes. The entire Colombo-Badulla journey lasts around 10–11 hours, with the left side of the train providing the most stunning scenes of the countryside.
This iconic trip weaves together historic charm, vibrant nature, and local culture, creating memories that last a lifetime in the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country.
