Following the construction of bridges over the Mahaweli Ganga and the Maha Oya the last rail tracks were laid on 15 April 1867.

The station building is of the Art Moderne style, incorporating curving forms and long horizontal lines.

Its minimalist walls and simple, bold forms contrast sharply with the highly ornamented, traditional architecture that surrounds it.

[7] The refurbishment was completed by June 2008, prior to the commencement of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation summit.

The works included drainage, landscaping, colour washing of the station building, renovation of lobby flooring, installation of new platform benches, waste collection facilities, and the renovation of toilets and passenger waiting rooms.