Udaya Devi

Udaya Devi (උදය දේවි, Princess/Queen of the Rise/Morning) is an Express train that runs between Colombo Fort and Batticaloa in Sri Lanka.

The Udaya Devi is one of three trains that runs between Colombo Fort and Batticaloa.The other trains are Pulathisi Intercity train and Night mail train that runs between Colombo and Batticaloa. Batticaloa-bound train departs from Colombo at 6.05 a.m. while Colombo-bound train departs from Batticaloa at 6:00 a.m.

Stops
There are 34 stops when going to Colombo, While there is 35 stops going to Batticaloa.

The Udaya Devi makes a longer stop at Maho Junction compared to other stations. This extended stop is necessary for the recoupling of the engine, which moves from the front of the train to the back. Following this, the train reverses direction and continues its journey all the way to Colombo or Batticaloa.

Udaya Devi also makes an extended stop at Galoya Junction aswell, this is due to the fact that some passengers can get the connecting train from Galoya Junction to Trincomalee.

It also makes another extended stop at Kalawewa to let the incoming/outbound train pass to Colombo or Batticaloa

Colombo Fort to Batticaloa Train Stops
Below is the timetable for the outbound service to Batticaloa. (Please note that the following table may contain inaccurate information. We advise arriving at your stop at least an hour prior to departure to ensure you are not late).

Batticaloa to Colombo Fort Train Stops
Below is the timetable for the inbound service from Batticaloa. (Please note that the following table may contain inaccurate information. We advise arriving at your stop at least an hour prior to departure to ensure you are not late).

Services
This train offers two classes.
 * Second class is more comfortable than the third class, But it is more expensive and provides better facilities than Third class.
 * Third class typically gets very crowded with commuters, And only provides basic facilities..
 * At times, buffet cars are included on the trains, and at other times, they are not. When they are available, passengers have the opportunity to buy snacks and beverages from the canteen onboard the buffet cars. However, when buffet cars are not present, vendors take advantage of the situation by boarding the train to sell snacks, beverages, and other items.

Route
The Udaya Devi runs on the Main line to Polgahawela Junction, then turns to the Northern line and then from Maho Junction, it runs the entire Batticaloa line.

Rolling Stock
The service runs by M2 or M6 locomotives pulling the newer Tantri-built Romanian cars.

On August 13th, 2022, there was an ongoing trial to use Indian-built ICF coaches. The trial was ongoing. However, if successful, it would continue to run with ICF coaches.

As of April 9th, 2024, it appears that the ongoing trial to use Indian-built ICF coaches for the Udaya Devi train has proven unsuccessful, as the train continues to run with refurbished Tantri compartments, rather than the switch to ICF coaches following the trial's outcome.

The reason for the lack of use of ICF coaches (excluding S13 DMU sets) on the Batticoloa lines is due to the weight of the compartments being greater than the track can handle. However, the Northern line continues to use ICF coaches and S13 and S12 sets due to the upgraded track, which allows for a smoother ride and higher speed.