Nanu Oya Railway Station was established in the late 19th century as part of the British colonial plan to connect the tea-growing highlands with Colombo. The railway line was crucial in transporting freshly harvested tea leaves and later evolved into a scenic passenger route. Built with typical colonial-style architecture, the station has a charming, old-world feel. Over time, it has become one of the most photographed and memorable railway stops in the country, particularly popular among tourists for boarding the famous Kandy–Ella train journey.

The station continues to operate as a key stop on the Main Line, serving both locals and tourists. While modernization has brought some upgrades, much of the station's original charm remains intact. Nanu Oya’s importance goes beyond functionality—it has become a symbol of slow travel and the romanticism of train journeys. For many travelers, it marks the start or end of an unforgettable rail adventure through Sri Lanka’s most breathtaking landscapes.