Bandarawela Railway Station is a key railway station located in the Badulla District of Sri Lanka’s central highlands. Situated on the Main Line at an altitude of approximately 1,225 meters (4,019 feet) above sea level, it serves the bustling town of Bandarawela, a popular hill station known for its cool climate, scenic beauty, and colonial charm. The station is a vital stop for travelers exploring Sri Lanka’s iconic hill country railway route, connecting Colombo with Badulla and other destinations in the region.
Constructed during the British colonial era, Bandarawela Railway Station retains much of its historical charm and architectural simplicity. The station is equipped with a single platform, ticketing counters, and basic waiting facilities to accommodate both passengers and freight services. Its strategic location in the heart of the hill country and its proximity to numerous attractions make it a hub for both local commuters and tourists.
Bandarawela Railway Station plays a significant role in the local economy by facilitating the transportation of agricultural goods, particularly tea, vegetables, and spices, which are vital to the region's economy. The station also serves as a major transit point for residents commuting to nearby towns for work, education, and trade. Its connectivity to larger urban centers like Colombo and Badulla ensures the economic and social mobility of the surrounding communities.
In addition to its functional importance, Bandarawela Railway Station is a gateway to several attractions in the central highlands. Visitors can explore the charming town of Bandarawela, known for its colonial-era buildings, tea estates, and serene landscapes. The nearby Dowa Temple, famous for its ancient rock carvings, and Lipton’s Seat, offering stunning panoramic views, are popular destinations for tourists. With its historical significance, scenic location, and role in connecting the hill country, Bandarawela Railway Station is a cherished stop on Sri Lanka’s railway network.
Bandarawela railway station timetable
15 trains call at Bandarawela on a typical day.
Main Line · 259.1 km from Colombo Fort · Uva Province
Station telephone: 057-2222271
| Departs | Towards | Train | Runs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 03:51 am | Badulla | Daily | |
| 06:04 am | Badulla | Night Mail | Daily |
| 07:14 am | Colombo Fort | Udarata Menike | Daily |
| 09:52 am | Colombo Fort | Daily | |
| 10:51 am | Colombo Fort | Ella Odyssey | Sunday Only |
| 11:45 am | Colombo Fort | Podi Menike | Daily |
| 12:50 pm | Badulla | Daily | |
| 12:52 pm | Kandy | Daily | |
| 01:02 pm | Ella | Saturday and Sunday Only | |
| 02:19 pm | Badulla | Ella Odyssey | Saturday Only |
| 02:54 pm | Kandy | Saturday and Sunday Only | |
| 03:09 pm | Badulla | Denuwara Menike | Daily |
| 04:30 pm | Badulla | Podi Menike | Daily |
| 05:58 pm | Badulla | Udarata Menike | Daily |
| 07:40 pm | Colombo Fort | Night Mail | Daily |
Timetable mirrored from published Sri Lanka Railways schedules, last checked 2026-08-31. Times can change without notice — confirm with the railway before travelling. See the whole network on the Sri Lanka railway station list.
