Travelling by train is one of the best ways to explore Sri Lanka. From the world-famous Kandy to Ella train journey through tea plantations to the fast Colombo to Jaffna train, seat reservation makes travel more comfortable and stress-free.
Right now, there are two main ways to book Sri Lanka train tickets online:
- Pravesha.lk – for 2nd class and 3rd class commuter tickets.
- Sri Lanka Railways Seat Reservation System – for 1st class, AC trains, and intercity reserved seats.
This guide shows step by step how to use both systems and which one is better for your journey.
Why Reserve Train Seats in Sri Lanka?
- Seats are guaranteed, especially on popular routes like Kandy to Ella, Colombo to Jaffna, and Colombo to Kandy.
- Online booking saves time and avoids long queues at the station.
- Reserved seats are more comfortable for long journeys and tourist routes.
- Foreign travellers can book Sri Lanka train tickets online without hassle.
1. Booking Train Tickets with Pravesha.lk (2nd & 3rd Class E-Tickets)
What is Pravesha.lk?
Pravesha.lk is the official Sri Lanka Railways online commuter ticket booking platform. It is mainly for short-distance daily travel and gives passengers digital e-tickets by SMS or email.
How to Book with Pravesha.lk
- Visit Pravesha.lk.
- Select departure and arrival stations, travel date, and number of passengers.
- Enter passenger details (NIC for Sri Lankans, passport for tourists if required).
- Pay with debit or credit card.
- Receive your e-ticket via SMS or email.
Tips for Pravesha Users
- Only valid for 2nd class and 3rd class commuter trains.
- Keep a screenshot or printout of your e-ticket in case of battery issues.
- Carry NIC or passport when travelling.
Pravesha is ideal for Colombo city commuters and short trips like Colombo to Galle or Colombo to Kandy non-reserved trains.
2. Sri Lanka Train Seat Reservation for 1st Class & Intercity Trains
What is the Seat Reservation System?
For 1st class train seats, AC trains (Hitachi), and intercity express services, passengers must use the official Sri Lanka Railway Seat Reservation System.
This service is best for:
- Kandy to Ella train booking online (tourist favourite).
- Colombo to Jaffna train reservation (long-distance travel).
- Colombo to Badulla, Galle, Anuradhapura, or Batticaloa reserved trains.
How Far in Advance Can You Book?
- Up to 30 days before travel.
- Closes 2 hours before departure.
How to Reserve 1st Class or Intercity Seats Online
- Go to seatreservation.railway.gov.lk.
- Enter departure and arrival stations, date, and number of passengers (max 5 per booking).
- Select the train and class (1st class, 2nd class reserved, or 3rd class reserved).
- Fill in details and confirm payment.
- Collect ticket at the station if required or keep the e-reservation code.
Tips for Reserved Train Seats
- Book early for popular tourist routes like Kandy–Ella.
- Always bring NIC or passport for verification.
- AC Hitachi trains and reserved compartments require confirmed booking before boarding.
Pravesha vs Seat Reservation: Which One is Right for You?
| Feature | Pravesha.lk | Seat Reservation |
|---|---|---|
| Classes Available | 2nd & 3rd class commuter tickets | 1st class, AC, reserved 2nd & 3rd class |
| Ticket Type | SMS or email e-ticket | Paper ticket or reservation code |
| Best For | Short daily trips (e.g., Colombo–Galle, Colombo–Kandy non-reserved) | Long-distance routes (Kandy–Ella, Colombo–Jaffna) |
| Advance Booking | Same-day available | Up to 30 days before |
| Website | pravesha.lk | seatreservation.railway.gov.lk |
Best Routes to Book Online
- Kandy to Ella train tickets online – Scenic ride through tea country.
- Colombo to Jaffna train seat reservation – Long-distance comfort in 1st class.
- Colombo to Kandy train booking – Most popular weekend and tourist journey.
- Colombo to Galle / Matara train tickets – Coastal railway trips.
Final Tips for Train Travel in Sri Lanka
- Always carry valid ID (NIC for locals, passport for foreigners).
- Keep screenshots of your tickets in case of poor internet or low battery.
- Arrive early at the station, especially for intercity trains.
- Tourists are advised to book 1st class or 2nd class reserved for comfort.
Official Train Ticket Websites
- Pravesha commuter tickets: www.pravesha.lk
- Seat reservation (1st class & intercity): seatreservation.railway.gov.lk
- Sri Lanka Railways official site: www.railway.gov.lk
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