What are the opening hours of the National Railway Museum in Sri Lanka?

The National Railway Museum at Kadugannawa is open daily from 9.00 AM to 4.00 PM. It is closed on Poya (full moon) days, which occur roughly once a month according to the Buddhist lunar calendar.

Where exactly is the National Railway Museum located?

The museum is situated within the premises of Kadugannawa railway station in Kandy District, Central Province. It is approximately 20 km from Kandy city and around 90 km from Colombo Fort along the A1 highway.

Is there an entrance fee for the National Railway Museum?

Admission charges, if any, are set by Sri Lanka Railways and may change periodically. It is advisable to check with the museum directly or confirm with your tour operator before visiting, as fees and concession structures are not always published in advance.

Why was the National Railway Museum opened at Kadugannawa?

The museum was inaugurated on 27 December 2014 to mark the 150th anniversary of Ceylon's first railway journey, which ran on that date in 1864. Kadugannawa was chosen partly for its historical significance on the original Colombo–Kandy line and because its station retains much of its original Victorian-era character.

Can I reach the National Railway Museum by train?

Yes. Kadugannawa is a stop on the main Colombo–Kandy railway line, and the museum is located directly within the station premises. Arriving by train is a practical and fitting way to visit, especially if you are already travelling the hill-country route.

What types of exhibits are on display at the National Railway Museum?

The collection includes retired steam locomotives, diesel railcars, passenger carriages, maintenance trolleys, and a wide range of operational artefacts such as signals, lamps, ticketing equipment, and uniforms. Most of the large rolling stock is displayed outdoors and can be viewed at close range.

How long does a visit to the National Railway Museum take?

Most visitors find that 90 minutes to two hours is enough to explore the collection comfortably. Rail enthusiasts or visitors with children who want to spend more time around the locomotives may wish to allow up to half a day, especially if combining the visit with a walk around Kadugannawa town.

National Railway Museum

Sri Lanka Railways Declared to open National Railway Museum at Kadugannawa on 27th December 2014 to commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the first train run. The first Train of the Ceylon Railway operated from Colombo Terminus station to Ambepussa conveying the Duke of Brabant of Belgium on 27th December 1864, This Museum Opening was held with the presence of Gathering of Special Guests and Public.

A Memorial Stamp, Memorial First Day Cover, Souvenir for the 150th celebration, a coffee table book and DVD was also issued in this occasion A Replica Steam Train was also operated from Colombo fort to Kadugannawa conveying special invitees memorizing the first train run which held 150 years ago.

The museum has old engines, locomotives, rail cars, trolleys, carriages, machineries, and equipments that have been used since the beginning of Sri Lanka Railway.

The museum is open daily from 9.00 AM to 4.00 PM and closed on Poya days.

Google Location