IDALGASHINNA RAILWAY STATION

Located between Haputale and Ohiya railway stations, Idalgashinna Railway Station is often deemed as the most picturesque railway station in Sri Lanka. The station is from the colonial era and was constructed in 1893 when the railway track was extended from Nanu Oya to Haputale. The station is also famous for having 14 tunnels between Ohiya and Idalgashinna, holding the record for the highest number of tunnels between two railway stations in Sri Lanka.

Amazing Views to Behold

Idalgashinna Station is a tiny station which looks even smaller by the pine-forest covered hill towering behind it. There is only one platform for the whole station, and as soon as you get off the train all you can see are endless green hills with a few scattered buildings which peak through the greenery. The best time to visit the station is in the morning, especially for sunrise, because in the later afternoon/evenings the station is enveloped in a thick cloud of mist. However, despite the restricted view, it is magical watching the mist roll in and cover everything in a blanket of white.

A Unique Walking Trail

There is also a very scenic walking trail from the Idalgashinna Station to the Ohiya Station. The trail is 8km long, so it’s about a three-hour walk. The trail runs along the railway track; for most of the journey the rail line hugs the edge of the cliffs it passes, and this is where you get some breathtaking views of the forest-covered hills. The trail also takes you through deep valleys and all 14 tunnels between the two stations which have a rather ominous feel to it when you stand on the edge looking into a tunnel of darkness… Needless to say, this is wonderful and definitely a must when in Haputale.