Pattipola Railway Station
Sri Lanka's highest railway station, nestled in misty highlands, offering breathtaking views and a serene escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Catch the misty mountain magic
Pattipola Railway Station
Best Time
Catch the misty mountain magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sri Lanka's highest railway station, nestled in misty highlands, offering breathtaking views and a serene escape.
"It's more beautiful than I can describe in words—you really have to see it with your own eyes."
🧥 Pack for the Cold
It's the highest station, so expect cool, misty weather. Layers are your best friend!
🚂 Book Train Tickets Early
Express trains like Udarata Menike fill up fast. Book in advance to secure your spot on this scenic route.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Highest Railway Station
Pattipola
Stand at Sri Lanka's highest point on the rail network, surrounded by misty hills. A truly unique experience.
Scenic Train Journey
Main Line Railway
The train ride to Pattipola offers breathtaking views of tea plantations and misty mountains. A journey to remember.
Gateway to Horton Plains
Near Pattipola
This station is a convenient starting point for exploring the stunning landscapes of Horton Plains National Park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Mist and Altitude
Train Travel is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Pack for the Cold
It's the highest station, so expect cool, misty weather. Layers are your best friend!
🚂 Book Train Tickets Early
Express trains like Udarata Menike fill up fast. Book in advance to secure your spot on this scenic route.
🏞️ Combine with Horton Plains
Pattipola is a great stop before or after visiting Horton Plains National Park. Plan your itinerary accordingly.
📸 Capture the Mist
The misty atmosphere creates dramatic photos. Be ready with your camera for unique shots!
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Pack for the Cold
It's the highest station, so expect cool, misty weather. Layers are your best friend!
🚂 Book Train Tickets Early
Express trains like Udarata Menike fill up fast. Book in advance to secure your spot on this scenic route.
🏞️ Combine with Horton Plains
Pattipola is a great stop before or after visiting Horton Plains National Park. Plan your itinerary accordingly.
📸 Capture the Mist
The misty atmosphere creates dramatic photos. Be ready with your camera for unique shots!
🚶♀️ Short Walks Nearby
Explore the area around the station; it's a peaceful spot for a stroll.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Pattipola Railway Station is lauded for its stunning location as Sri Lanka's highest railway point, offering cool misty air and beautiful highland scenery. Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the unique experience of arriving by train. However, some reviews note that the station's infrastructure, particularly its facilities, could be improved to better match its tourist potential.
"Pattipola Railway Station is one of the highest railway stations in Sri Lanka, located in a scenic mountainous area. Surrounded by misty hills and lush greenery, it offers a peaceful and beautiful environment. The station is known for its cool climate, fresh air, and picturesque views, making it a popular stop for travelers exploring the hill country. Its simple charm and natural beauty reflect the unique character of Sri Lanka’s upcountry railway journey."
Kavinda A
"A charming and quiet railway station located at the highest elevation in Sri Lanka. The station is clean and well-maintained, with a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by beautiful scenery. I really enjoyed the calmness of the area. It’s also the perfect starting point for a short walk to the Summit Level. A lovely stop for anyone exploring the upcountry railway line."
Pramuditha Bandara
"The railway station is situated in a beautiful location. The station master and the staff do the maximum to keep it in order despite many hardships and the lack of essentials.
The waiting rooms/washrooms have become store rooms for cargo. The guest toilets are not functioning. Lack of essential electrical fittings. The enthusiasm, warm smiles, assistance by the staff is overshadowed by the lack of infrastructure.
The SL railway and SL tourist board need to address this as it is a major tourist attraction location. The lack of many essential requirements, downgrades and deters foreign and Sri Lankan tourists."
Harsha Pilapitiya
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most scenic way is by train on the Main Line, which connects major cities like Kandy, Ella, and Badulla. You can also reach it by road via tuk-tuk or taxi, especially if coming from nearby towns like Nuwara Eliya or Ohiya.
Yes, you can take a train from Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya station) towards Badulla, and Pattipola is a scheduled stop on this route.
Tuk-tuks and taxis are the primary options for reaching Horton Plains National Park from Pattipola. It's advisable to arrange a return trip to ensure you have transport back.
Yes, you can drive to Pattipola. The roads leading to the station are part of the scenic hill country routes.
While local buses operate in the region, they might not be the most direct or convenient option for tourists specifically heading to the railway station. Trains and private hire vehicles are more common.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entry fee to visit the railway station itself. However, you will need a train ticket to travel on the railway line.
The station operates according to the train schedule. Trains run throughout the day, but it's best to check the latest Sri Lanka Railways timetable for specific timings.
Yes, Horton Plains National Park has an entrance fee for both locals and foreigners. It's recommended to check the latest park fees before your visit.
You can purchase tickets at the station, but for popular express trains, it's highly recommended to book in advance online or at major railway stations to avoid disappointment.
Yes, Sri Lanka Railways offers online booking options for many of its services, especially for the express trains that stop at Pattipola.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the station itself, being the highest in Sri Lanka. Enjoy the cool climate, misty views, and the unique atmosphere. It's also a starting point for short walks and a gateway to Horton Plains.
Pattipola Railway Station is the highest in Sri Lanka, situated at an elevation of approximately 1,897.5 meters (6,225 feet) above sea level.
Absolutely! The misty landscapes, the colonial-era station architecture, and the passing trains offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
While the station has basic facilities, some reviews mention that waiting rooms and restrooms may not always be in optimal condition due to infrastructure challenges.
While not a primary wildlife viewing spot, the surrounding highlands are home to diverse flora and fauna. Keep an eye out during your walks.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are limited dining options directly at the station. You might find small local eateries nearby or roadside cafes, especially if traveling towards Ella.
Expect simple, local Sri Lankan cuisine. If you're lucky, you might find small shops selling snacks and beverages.
Yes, it's a good idea to carry your own snacks and water, especially if you plan to visit Horton Plains or are on a long train journey.
For a wider selection of restaurants, you would need to travel to larger towns like Ella or Nuwara Eliya.
While not explicitly mentioned, some roadside cafes might offer basic seating and views of the surrounding landscape.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings can offer beautiful misty scenes and sunrises, while late afternoons might provide softer light. The passing trains are also great subjects.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for landscapes and trains. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive mountain views.
The platform itself offers classic train station shots. Exploring the immediate surroundings can reveal scenic viewpoints of the misty hills.
The mist can create atmospheric and moody shots, but it can also reduce visibility. Be prepared for changing conditions and protect your gear from moisture.
Yes, trains are a key part of the experience. Be mindful of safety and railway regulations when photographing trains.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting, consider packing plenty of snacks and warm clothing, as the altitude means cooler temperatures. If planning a trip to Horton Plains from Pattipola, ensure children are comfortable with walking and the potentially misty conditions. The station's relative quietness compared to larger tourist hubs can also make it a more relaxed stop for families.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Backpackers
From Pattipola, you can easily access Horton Plains for hiking. For budget-conscious travelers, sharing tuk-tuk or taxi costs for trips to the park with other travelers can be a good strategy. The station's serene environment also provides a peaceful respite between more bustling destinations. Remember to carry cash, as card facilities might be limited in this region.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Timing is key for capturing the best light and mist. Early mornings can yield stunning sunrise and mist-laden scenes. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and protect your gear. The passing trains, especially the iconic express trains, offer dynamic subjects against the backdrop of the highlands.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Sri Lanka's Highest Railway Station
The journey to Pattipola itself is often considered a highlight, with trains winding through lush tea plantations and dramatic mountain landscapes. Travelers often describe the experience as breathtaking, with the crisp mountain air and panoramic views adding to the allure. The station's simple charm and its role in the daily lives of the local community, alongside its historical significance, make it more than just a transit point; it's a destination that embodies the spirit of Sri Lanka's hill country railway.
Beyond its status as the highest station, Pattipola is also strategically located near significant engineering marvels like the Pattipola Tunnel, one of the longest on the Main Line. This proximity underscores the challenging yet remarkable feat of railway construction in this rugged terrain. The station continues to operate, serving major express trains like the Udarata Menike and Podi Menike, ensuring its ongoing relevance in Sri Lanka's tourism and transportation landscape.
Connecting with Nature: Pattipola and Horton Plains
The journey from Pattipola to Horton Plains offers a transition from the railway's embrace to the wilder beauty of the highlands. The cool, misty climate that characterizes Pattipola extends into the national park, creating an ethereal landscape. Visitors are advised to prepare for hiking and to be mindful of the weather, which can change rapidly. The proximity of the station to the park makes it an ideal base for those looking to explore the natural wonders of Sri Lanka's central highlands.
Beyond Horton Plains, the area surrounding Pattipola itself offers opportunities for gentle exploration. The station's elevated location provides scenic vistas, and short walks can lead to tranquil spots amidst the highland scenery. The emphasis on preserving these natural areas is strong, with visitors encouraged to practice responsible tourism and avoid littering to protect the pristine environment.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit