The narrow gauge railway line from Nanu Oya to Ragala gave its passengers a jerky ride with very sharp curves and splendid views of tea plantations and pristine forests.
Originally, in 1897, it was the Hill Tramway Commission, under the patronage of Nuwara Eliya’s Assistant Government Agent Lushington, that started exploring the possibility of opening a light railway or tramway. A trace of light in this regard was shed in 1903 with the completion of the line from Nanu Oya to Udapussellawa, with a terminus in Ragala.
The passenger service was in operation for 36 years, until 1940, and 10 years later the railway was closed down completely in 1950. Vestiges of the line still remain in a stout iron railway bridge near the racecourse and the railway station at Nuwara Eliya, while the stops at Brookside and Ragala, have now been converted into shops.
Tour Itinerary
SCHEDULE
- Arrival in the Tea Factory in Kandapola.
- Check in to your room and relax or do a guided tour at the Tea Factory.
- Dinner at the TCK 6685.
- Overnight stay the Tea Factory Hotel.
Lying on the slopes of the tea plantations high above Nuwara Eliya, Tea Factory is what it says – a beautifully converted tea factory – and offers high-end accommodation in a unique setting.
After being more than 50 years in slumber, the TCK 6685 has re-awakened as an authentic restaurant of the 1930's. The fully restored carriage has its burgundy and mustard yellow numbers painted, the brass polished to perfection and the teak panelling replaced to its former glory. The visitors are offered a nostalgic simulation of yester-years' uncrowded days of train travel in Sri Lanka with its spotless restaurant facilities and hearty meals served by liveried stewards.
The gourmet experience begins with a scrumptious starter that whets the appetite. Here the range could vary from orange smoked salmon, to the most delectable dish of duck you've ever had in your life.
Next in line is the main course that's bought in with a great deal of pageantry, and ‘whistle blowing' – in typical train style. Here, one would get anything between a hefty portion of traditional Australian lamb, asparagus tips with honey glazed ham or a tropical lobster thermidor. One could even select a combination of items, depending on the mood they are in, and a sure guarantee is that it would leave you asking for more. However, one must not forget the most important part of the meal – the dessert.
The Chef displays his supremacy through this invention, which could be anything from a dark and white chocolate mouse, to a warm rhubarb crumble with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
All of these, elegantly served by white-glove clad ‘attendants' in railway uniform, adds to the moment. Most of the fruits and vegetables served at meals are extremely fresh, as they are cultivated in the vegetable plantations in the vicinity, thus ensuring the best quality for the perfect dining experience.
In addition, the bar is well stocked with the finest wines and a unique collection of accompaniments, to add flavour to a delightful evening. Thereby, this restaurant at the Tea Factory is assured to provide a nostalgic walk down memory lane for many. For others, it would provide an unforgettable experience that would last for a lifetime. This restaurant has truly re-invented the concept of fine dining, and provides a gastronomical adventure to the discerning traveller.
