Everything you need to know about reservations, commuter tickets, passport rules, cancellations, and travel tips.
Sri Lanka’s trains offer some of the most scenic journeys in Asia, from the famous Kandy–Ella train ride to short commuter routes along the Colombo coast. Train travel is affordable, picturesque, and a must-do for many visitors. However, with updated booking rules and stricter passport verification, it’s important to follow the official ticketing process to avoid any issues during your trip.
Here’s your complete, travel guide to buying train tickets in Sri Lanka the safe and official way.
1. Buy Reserved Tickets Early — 30-Day Rule
Long-distance scenic trains, including the Kandy–Ella route, open for booking 30 days before departure. These seats sell out quickly, especially during the peak season.
Tips for securing a seat:
- Book as soon as the 30-day window opens
- Morning train services fill fastest
- December–February and July–August require early booking
- Keep your passport details ready for ticket verification
- Seats are assigned randomly when you book through the internet, thus can’t guarantee a window seat.
- eservations are offered across three classes: First Class (A/C), Second Class, and Third Class.
Booking early is the best way to guarantee a comfortable journey with a compatible seat.
2. Where to Buy Reserved Train Tickets (Official Only)
Sri Lanka Railways strictly controls where reservation tickets can be purchased. Only use the following channels:
A. Official Online Reservation Portal
The ONLY government-approved site for online seat bookings:
Seat Reservation Railway Gov LK – https://seatreservation.railway.gov.lk/
Features:
- Digital reserved ticket
- Passport/NIC detail entry
- Seat allocation (assigned by system according with availability)
B. Designated Railway Stations (Limited Locations)
Not every station sells reservation tickets.
Only selected major stations offer this service.
Check the official list of mTicketing-enabled stations
Below is the few famous list of reservation enabled satiations. You can also get a physical printed copy of the digital ticket through one of these stations free of charge.
- Colombo Fort
- Maradana
- Kandy
- Ella
- Nanu Oya
- Hatton
- Badulla
- Anuradhapura
- Jaffna
- Hikkaduwa
- Galle
- Matara
- Trincomalee
3. Do Not Buy Tickets from Unauthorized Third-Party Sellers
Sri Lanka Railways has issued a clear advisory to all travelers:
Do NOT buy reserved tickets from unofficial websites, resellers, or individuals.
The Railway Department now checks:
- Your Full Name
- Your passport number
- Your travel date
If the ticket details do not match your passport, you will not be allowed to board the reserved compartment. Also, it is not permitted to transfer your tickets to someone else without a ticket cancellation.
This verification system was introduced to stop ticket reselling and inflated prices.
4. Booking Through a Travel Guide or Tour Operator
You travel agency or tour guide may be able to help you with the ticket reservation, if you’re planning do a train ride in Sri Lanka. However, still the reservation needs to be made only using your passport details.
Thus before accepting the ticket, make sure to double-check
- Your full name
- Your passport number
- Train number and date
If the ticket was reserved under someone else’s ID, it is not officially valid for boarding.
5. Buying Commuter / Unreserved Tickets (Easy Option for Short Trips
For short-distance travel and most city routes in Sri Lanka, you don’t need a reservation. Even on the popular Kandy to Ella train, you can travel in an unreserved compartment if you couldn’t secure a reserved seat. Many trains in Sri Lanka operate with a mix of both reserved and unreserved coaches, but keep in mind that unreserved sections can get crowded during busy hours or peak season.
A. Pravesha Digital Ticketing System
Sri Lanka Railways now supports mobile ticketing through Pravesha. SLR Smart Ticketing System | Home
Benefits:
- Skip the queues
- Show a digital ticket on your phone
- Convenient for daily and short-distance rides
In pravesha.lk, you are required to purchase the ticket 20min prior to boarding to the train.
B. Station Ticket Counters
All stations sell unreserved tickets for same day travel.
Ideal for routes such as:
- Colombo → Galle
- Colombo → Negombo
- Colombo → Kandy
- Ella → Nanu Oya
- Benthota → Galle
- Kandy / Colombo suburban trains
6. Changing Plans? Simple Cancellation Guidelines
If you cancel your journey, Sri Lanka Railways offers partial refunds depending on how early you cancel.
Refund Percentage by Time Before Departure:
| Time Before Depature | Refund |
|---|---|
| More than 7 days | 75% |
| 2–7 days | 50% |
| Less than 48 hours | No refund |
How to cancel:
- Visit any mTicketing-enabled railway station
- Bring your e-ticket and passport
- Complete the cancellation form
- Refund is issued according to the table above
7. Refunds for Train Cancellation or Failed Online Payments
You may request a
- The train service is cancelled due to operational issues
- Your payment was deducted but you didn’t receive a ticket
Refunds must be collected in person from an mTicketing station. Refunds for failed online payments usually return to your account within 14–30 days, depending on bank processes.
Quick Tips for a Smooth Train Journey
- Book reservation seats early (30 days in advance)
- Use only official railway reservation platforms (seatreservation.gov.lk and pravesha.lk)
- Ensure your passport details match the ticket
- Keep your passport with you when boarding
- Use Pravesha for short commuter rides
- Visit designated stations for cancellations and refunds
- Arrive early for popular trains like Kandy–Ella
Sri Lanka’s railway system offers some of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. By following the official booking process and understanding the updated rules, you’ll enjoy a safe, smooth, and comfortable travel experience whether you’re heading to Ella’s misty mountains or exploring Colombo’s coastal routes.
