Pattipola Railway Station
Central Province
About Pattipola Railway Station
Pattipola is the roof of the Sri Lankan railway: at 1,897.5 metres above sea level, it is the highest station on the island, and among the highest broad-gauge stations anywhere in the world. The Main Line crests here on its long climb from Colombo, slipping through the summit tunnel just beyond the platform before beginning the descent to Ohiya and the Uva side. Everything about the little station rewards the stop: the vintage signal levers and station bell, the kitchen-garden neatness of its flowerbeds, resident sambar deer that wander down from Horton Plains in the cold months, and the mist that pours across the tracks on cue for photographers. Pattipola village is also the northern gateway to Horton Plains National Park - many World's End walkers enter this side - and the onward ride to Ohiya, tunnels and cloud-forest all the way, is one of the line's most beautiful stretches.
Top Activities
- ✓Highest-station photographs
- ✓Watching trains crest the summit
- ✓Horton Plains via the Pattipola gate
- ✓Sambar deer spotting in the cold months
- ✓Riding the summit stretch to Ohiya
Nearby Attractions
Travel Tips
Time your visit to a train arrival - the station comes alive.
It's a practical Horton Plains entrance if you're coming from Nuwara Eliya.
Dawn is freezing by Sri Lankan standards; dress like it.
Quick Info
Best Time
December to April; clear mornings
Weather
Cold and misty (often under 10°C at dawn); bring layers.
Estimated Daily Budget
6.8478°N, 80.7864°E
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