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Indian Ocean Rail Journeys

Embark on a captivating adventure across the Indian Ocean region with rail journey group tours that blend cultural exploration, natural beauty, and the charm of train travel. From the lush highlands of Sri Lanka to the coastal plains and historic towns, these journeys offer a unique way to experience the region.

Whether you're winding through tea plantations, or skimming along the coast, rail travel in the Indian Ocean region promises unforgettable views and shared experiences.

Best Regions to Visit in the Indian Ocean

Sri Lanka's popular rail routes

Habarana to Jaffna – A Journey Through Changing Landscapes.

This route offers a fascinating transition from Sri Lanka’s central plains to its northern peninsula. Departing from Habarana, known for its proximity to ancient sites and wildlife reserves, the train travels through dry zones, rural towns, and gradually into the culturally rich northern region. Jaffna welcomes travellers with its unique architecture, vibrant markets, and deep-rooted traditions.

Ella to Kandy – Highland Beauty on the Rails.

One of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated rail journeys, the route from Ella to Kandy showcases the island’s lush interior. Winding through tea plantations, forested hills, and colonial-era stations, this scenic ride offers panoramic views and a peaceful pace.

Best Time to Visit

Winter (December to February): Enjoy dry, sunny weather in the south and west - perfect for the coastal lines and the highland routes.

Spring (March to May): Perfect for visiting the east coast, with warm weather ideal for beach activities and surfing.

Summer (June to August): The central highlands are especially beautiful, with misty mornings and blooming gardens. The warm temperatures are perfect for outdoor adventures.

Autumn (September to November): Cooler and drier across many regions, ideal for outdoor exploration - with crisp air and clear views.

From misty mountain passes to sunlit coastal tracks, the Indian Ocean’s railways offer a kaleidoscope of experiences that shift beautifully with the seasons.

Destinations to explore

Seamlessly connecting coastal charm with inland heritage, rail journeys in the Indian Ocean region reveal a world of contrast and discovery.

Sri Lanka

  • from £2,199 per person
Single Travellers

Where possible we have secured a limited number of places without a single Supplement on each escorted tour. These are strictly subject to availability and once they are all booked a supplement will apply.

Expert Local Tour Guides

All of our English speaking local guides are passionate about their country and will accompany you from the moment you arrive in your destination, throughout your escorted tour and right until your departing flight home.

Handcrafted Tours

All the hotels chosen for these escorted tours have been personally sourced and inspected by us. We pride ourselves on offering you comfortable, handpicked accommodation in some of the best locations around the world.

All you need to know

Once you have booked, we will send you a comprehensive dossier with all your accommodation details, flight and airport information, country advice and other useful tips such as what to pack and luggage allowance.

Sri Lanka by Rail

Winding through misty hills and coastal plains, Sri Lanka’s railways reveal the island’s soul in motion.

Sri Lanka's Northeast and Railways

13 Day Rail Journey

from £2,199 pp

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