Train services between Nanu Oya and Badulla have officially resumed following the completion of restoration work on the Upcountry railway line, which was damaged by Cyclone Ditwah. The route had been partially suspended for several months after a landslide damaged the track near Parakumpura, between Nanu Oya and Ambewela.
During the suspension, train operations on this section were limited to Ambewela–Badulla only. The full Nanu Oya–Badulla service is now restored.
What Caused the Closure
According to the Ministry of Transport, Highways and Urban Development, railway engineers and workers carried out continuous repair work under difficult conditions. Challenging terrain, adverse weather, and limited access to the affected area made the restoration a lengthy process.
The damaged section was restored through a joint effort involving the Railway Department, the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO), and private sector partners.
The Return of the Podi Menike
To mark the reopening, the Podi Menike resumed its full journey from Nanu Oya to Badulla at 09:00 following a multi-religious ceremony held at Nanu Oya Railway Station.
Stations Along the Route
The restored service stops at:
- Ambewela
- Ohiya
- Haputale
- Bandarawela
- Ella
- Demodara
- Badulla
Compartment Options
- 1st Class Air-Conditioned — advance booking required
- 2nd Class Reserved Seating — advance booking recommended
- 3rd Class — tickets available at the station counter on the day
Booking Your Seat
Reservations can be made through the Sri Lanka Railways seat reservation portal. Book early — seats on the Podi Menike and Ella Odyssey fill quickly during peak season.
Combining Train and Tuk Tuk
For tuk tuk travellers, the reopening of this section makes it possible again to combine road travel with the hill country rail line. The drop-off and pick-up service lets you leave the tuk tuk at Ella or Nanu Oya station and collect it at the other end after your train journey. Details on how this works alongside your rental are on the Ella to Nanu Oya train schedule page.
For route ideas that combine road and rail, the Sri Lanka tuk tuk tour plans cover several hill country itineraries. See the customer journey page for full details on the drop-off and pick-up service. The Ella and Bandarawela travel guide covers what to see along this section of the line.
Frequently Asked Questions — Nanu Oya to Badulla Train
Is the Nanu Oya to Badulla train running again?
Yes. Train services between Nanu Oya and Badulla resumed on 20 June 2026 following restoration work on the track damaged by Cyclone Ditwah near Parakumpura.
Which trains run from Nanu Oya to Badulla?
The Podi Menike and the Ella Odyssey both serve this route. The Podi Menike was the first to resume the full Nanu Oya–Badulla journey following the restoration.
What stations does the Nanu Oya–Badulla train stop at?
The route stops at Ambewela, Ohiya, Haputale, Bandarawela, Ella, Demodara, and Badulla.
How do I book tickets for the Nanu Oya to Badulla train?
Book through the Sri Lanka Railways seat reservation portal. Book early — seats on the Podi Menike and Ella Odyssey fill quickly during peak season.
Can I combine the Nanu Oya–Badulla train with a tuk tuk rental?
Yes. The drop-off and pick-up service between Ella and Nanu Oya lets you leave the tuk tuk at one station and collect it at the other after your train journey. Arrange this in advance via WhatsApp when you book your rental.