Haputale to Hatton

Train riding in Sri Lanka is challenging for a second class traveller. (I'm all class, so I fit anywhere!) The overcrowding is stifling and the noise is ear wrecking; but it's one of the most exhilarating things to do. This train trip was particularly audacious. The train was already full to capacity having left the tourist capital of Ella earlier that morning and as I stood on the platform with my two packs turtled front and back, I wondered how it was going to be possible to board. I hoiked myself onto the first step and then clung to side rails and stared up into the faces of disbelieving travellers. "Yes, I'm coming in!" As the train started to move, I pushed up and into the bogie section of the carriage where there were at least 20 people intimately jammed. I looked through to the section between the carriages and there were six people sitting and standing on the articulated area.

I shimmied out of my packs and found a spot to shove the large one under the central luggage shelf. I kept my little one on the front. There was no need to find a hand hold as there was no way I could fall. The people were so kind and not at all disturbed by the intrusion and a group of young men were happy to chat and take selfies with me. This is one benefit. You get to meet lots of people. The other bonus is that the doors are open and there is cool fresh air and amazing views to be had. Pretty difficult to take pictures and video, but here's a couple so you get the idea.