Number of Cycling Days: 10 Days | Total Cycling Distance: 412 Km |
Accommodation: Included | Bike Hire: Included |
Single Supplement: Supplement Charge | Tour Code: SRL |
Next departure: 02 November, 2025 | Difficulty: Moderate |
Begin your cycling adventure in Negombo, a vibrant coastal town known for its bustling fishing industry and serene beaches. As you leave the seaside town behind, your ride will take you along charming rural roads, offering a glimpse into the daily life of local villagers. The route takes you through lush farmland, peaceful coconut plantations, and vibrant communities, allowing you to experience Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and rural charm firsthand.
Pedal through vibrant neighborhoods and bustling towns, feeling the pulse of Sri Lankan culture as you pass by colorful markets and street vendors. As you approach Colombo, Sri Lanka’s dynamic capital, the landscape begins to shift from rural to urban, with glimpses of modern city life blending with colonial-era buildings and lush green spaces.
Cycling into Colombo, you’ll witness the contrast between the serene coastline and the vibrant cityscape. The capital’s streets are alive with energy, with a mix of traditional Sri Lankan life and contemporary influences. Along the way, take in the sights of important landmarks like the Galle Face Green, Pettah Market, and the iconic Independence Square, offering an unforgettable mix of history and modernity.
This scenic ride from Negombo to Colombo captures the essence of Sri Lanka, combining rural tranquility with the pulse of urban energy, all while offering an active way to explore the country’s diverse landscapes.
Day 1: Negombo – Arrival
Welcome to Sri Lanka! Your adventure kicks off in the charming coastal town of Negombo, conveniently located near the airport. Your journey officially begins with a welcome meeting in the evening. If you arrive early, take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the coastal atmosphere of Sri Lanka. Wander through the town and observe the colorful local fishing boats at work. For those who love fresh seafood, indulge in a delectable meal at one of the local eateries.
Alternatively, you can rent a bike from the hotel and explore the scenic countryside on two wheels. In the evening, your tour leader will be happy to offer fantastic recommendations for local restaurants to enjoy a delicious Sri Lankan dinner.
Day 2: Chilaw – Anuradhapura
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, then gear up for your first cycling adventure with a test ride through the lively streets of Negombo. From here, you’ll cycle to Chilaw, passing through picturesque fishing villages, the scenic Dutch Canal, lush coconut plantations, and bustling tile factories. Along the way, take in the vibrant local life as you pedal through these charming landscapes.
Upon arriving in Chilaw, enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch before hopping aboard a coach for the scenic drive to Anuradhapura. Once in Anuradhapura, check into your hotel, unwind, and perhaps take a refreshing dip in the pool to relax after your ride.
In the evening, you have the option to join a fun and flavorful food crawl through the bustling streets and markets of Anuradhapura. This is a fantastic opportunity to sample authentic local dishes and dive deeper into Sri Lanka’s rich culinary culture.
Day 3: Anuradhapura
After a hearty breakfast, hop on your bike and cycle to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Anuradhapura for a fascinating guided bicycle tour of this ancient city. As you explore the ruins, you’ll encounter the sacred Bo Tree, a powerful symbol of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage and the inspiration behind many of Anuradhapura’s grand architectural structures.
The ruins are spread over a vast area, offering a mix of woodland settings and more cultivated areas, with impressive columns, ponds, and ancient relics scattered throughout. You’ll visit the magnificent Isurumuniya Temple, a serene spot with beautiful carvings and sculptures, as well as the Anuradhapura Museum, where you can learn more about the history of the city.
After a morning full of exploration, enjoy a delicious local lunch with your group. Then, return to your hotel for a free afternoon and evening to relax and unwind at your own pace.
Day 4: Ritigala – Polonnaruwa
This morning, cycle from Anuradhapura to Ritigala, passing through lush rice paddies, serene man-made water tanks, and vibrant jungle landscapes. Along the way, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a countryside kiosk, soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
Upon arrival at Ritigala, explore the stunning Ritigala Monastery, a historical site that dates back nearly 2,000 years. Set against the backdrop of the mountain that gives the monastery its name, the site offers fascinating insights into Sri Lanka’s ancient spirituality and local mythology.
After discovering the rich history of the monastery, board a coach for the journey to Polonnaruwa. Once you arrive, take the opportunity to unwind and relax, recharging for the exciting days ahead.
Day 5: Polonnaruwa – Dambulla
This morning, saddle up for an invigorating ride to Polonnaruwa, the second-oldest kingdom in Sri Lanka. As you explore the ancient site, you’ll visit the stunning Vihara Temple, the towering Parakrama Statue, and the revered Siva Temple, each offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture.
After discovering these historical treasures, continue your ride towards Diyabeduma, where the journey takes you through scenic landscapes of lush sanctuaries, tranquil man-made channels, and sprawling farmlands. Along the way, pause for a picnic lunch to refuel and take in the surrounding beauty.
In the afternoon, hop aboard a coach for the journey to Dambulla. Once there, enjoy a visit to the bustling Dambulla wholesale vegetable market. As the sun sets, you’ll have the option to join a local food crawl, where you can sample a variety of traditional Sri Lankan dishes and experience the vibrant flavors of the region.
Day 6: Sigriya Rock & Kandy
Start your day early with a ride from your hotel in Dambulla to Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient rock fortress that rises 200 meters above the surrounding gardens and reservoirs. Along the way, you’ll pass through the captivating Water Garden, Boulder Garden, and Mirror Wall, and get a glimpse of the stunning Sigiriya Frescoes. Be sure to have your camera ready — the sight of this fortress set against the skyline is unforgettable.
Once at the base, hike to the top of the fortress for breathtaking panoramic views and enjoy a well-deserved breakfast at the peak. The scenery from here is nothing short of spectacular.
After your climb, hop back on your bike and cycle through the picturesque countryside, making a stop for lunch at a spice garden near Matale. Savor the local flavors and learn about the rich agricultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
Next, relax in the support vehicle as you’re driven the final leg to Kandy. This evening, experience a traditional Kandyan dance performance, offering a vibrant glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
Day 7: Kandy
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, and then choose your morning adventure: either head out for some additional cycling in the scenic Hanthana Mountain Range (weather and time permitting) or stay in Kandy to explore the area at your leisure.
Later in the morning, make your way to Giragama for a fascinating guided tour of a tea factory. Here, you’ll learn about the intricate process of how Sri Lanka’s famous tea is made, and have the chance to sample some of the delightful varieties that make this drink a national treasure.
For lunch, visit the Hela Bojun Restaurant, a remarkable social enterprise established by the Sri Lankan government’s agriculture ministry. This restaurant provides employment opportunities for women from local communities, empowering them through training and skill development. Enjoy a delicious array of Sri Lankan dishes prepared by these talented women while learning about the restaurant’s important mission and impact.
The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace.
In the evening, visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist site, where you can learn about its rich history and spiritual significance. Afterward, return to town and embark on a food crawl, sampling local delicacies and experiencing the vibrant flavors of Kandy.
Day 8: Hatton
After breakfast, transfer to Kandy Railway Station for a scenic train ride to Hatton. The train journey offers stunning views as you travel through the lush, rolling hills of Sri Lanka’s hill country. Upon arrival in Hatton, you’ll embark on a bike ride to Maskeliya, pedaling through verdant tea plantations, where the landscape is dotted with scenic views of terraced hills and green fields.
Stop for lunch at a local kiosk, where you’ll enjoy an authentic Tamil meal, giving you a taste of the region’s flavorful cuisine. After lunch, continue cycling to your guesthouse in Maskeliya, where you can check in and unwind for the rest of the afternoon.
If time allows, consider taking an optional trek to Adam’s Peak, a conical mountain standing 2,243 meters high. This sacred pilgrimage site is particularly fascinating to visit during the pilgrimage season, which runs from late May to early December. The trek offers not only spiritual significance but also spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
Day 9: Tissamaharama
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before setting off on a scenic ride from Bogawanthalawa to Balangoda. Although it’s a short ride, this stretch is undoubtedly one of the most stunning in Sri Lanka. As you cycle through picturesque tea plantations and serene pine forest passes, you’ll be treated to panoramic mountain views and the soothing sounds of birdsong filling the air. Along the way, you may catch glimpses of trickling waterfalls, adding to the natural beauty of the route.
Pause for a well-earned lunch, surrounded by the lush green slopes of Balangoda, before continuing your journey. Afterward, transfer to Tissamaharama. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and unwind from the day’s ride. In the evening, gather with your group to share stories and enjoy a delicious group dinner, reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Day 10: Yala National Park
After breakfast, cycle along the tree-lined roads, passing through charming villages on your way from Tissamaharama to Kataragama. This vibrant and sacred city is a major religious hub in Sri Lanka, on par with Adam’s Peak in national significance. It’s home to the renowned Kataragama Festival, a two-week celebration that attracts thousands of Hindus and tourists every July and August, offering a rich cultural experience.
Once in Kataragama, take time to explore this lively city before embarking on an exciting jeep safari through Yala National Park. Known for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, Yala is home to elephants, crocodiles, and a variety of waterbirds, including the elusive great thick-knee. The park also boasts one of the highest concentrations of leopards in the world, making it a must-see for nature enthusiasts.
After your adventure, return to Tissamaharama for the evening, where you’ll unwind and share stories with your group over a delightful group dinner.
Day 11: Mirissa
After breakfast, set off on your bike for a scenic ride from Tissamaharama to Hambantota, passing through the picturesque Bundala National Park. The park is known for its rich wildlife and birdlife, so keep an eye out for colorful species along the way. After a well-earned lunch in Hambantota, continue your ride to Mirissa, a charming coastal town.
Upon arrival in Mirissa, enjoy a free afternoon of relaxation at the beach. The long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters make it an ideal spot to unwind, swim, or simply enjoy the stunning sunset views. For those looking to explore further, consider cycling to nearby Weligama, a vibrant fishing village where colorful boats bring in fresh catches each day. You can watch the fishermen at work or stroll along the shore, where local markets offer fresh seafood.
If you’re looking for a unique souvenir, don’t miss the local lace products, a traditional craft of the area that makes for a truly authentic gift to take home.
Day 12: Mirissa & Galle
Enjoy a leisurely morning to relax and unwind. Later in the day, you’ll drive to Galle, a captivating city known for its impressive World Heritage-listed Dutch Fort. This historic fort is surrounded by the ocean on three sides and is home to a fascinating blend of ancient mosques, churches, museums, and boutiques. As you explore its maze of narrow, gallery-lined streets, you’ll encounter a unique fusion of European architecture and South Asian traditions, reflecting over 400 years of rich history.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided walk with your leader, delving into the city’s history and culture. As the day winds down, head to the ramparts to watch the breathtaking sunset over the ocean, offering a perfect end to your day. Afterward, you’ll drive back to Mirissa to relax and reflect on your day of exploration.
Day 13: Colombo
After breakfast, depart Mirissa and drive to Colombo. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and get ready to explore the vibrant capital. Join your leader for a guided walk through the city, where you’ll pass the bustling Petta Bazaar, iconic Independence Square, the grand Parliament building, and the insightful National Museum.
The tour will conclude at the Barefoot Fairtrade store, where you can browse a wonderful collection of handicrafts from across Sri Lanka and support local cottage industries.
In the evening, celebrate the end of your journey with an optional group food crawl. Head to the lively local market stalls and indulge in some of Sri Lanka’s best street food — the perfect way to toast a trip well-travelled.
Day 14: Colombo
After breakfast, there are no planned activities for the day, marking the end of your adventure. You’re free to depart at your convenience after check-out. If you’d like to extend your stay or need assistance with additional accommodation, simply contact your booking agent in advance to arrange everything.
What’s Included
What’s Excluded
Guides
Your trip will be led by our local cycling tour guide. For a group of less than 5, there will be one English-speaking cycling guide and a driver. For a group of 6 or more, there will be a Cycling Tour Leader, an English-speaking cycling guide, drivers, and assistants. All of our guides are well-informed about the history, culture, and religions of the area where you will be biking and are skilled at sharing that knowledge with you.
Bikes & Repairs
The bikes you will be riding are well-known makes of hybrid bikes or mountain bikes. The ones you receive depend on the type of tour.
During the tour, your guide will carry a reliable toolkit and help you in fixing any bike problems, so you only need to bring a daypack for your camera and other necessities. However, please note that we cannot guarantee being equipped for all types of repairs. If you are bringing your own bike, it is crucial to ensure that it is in good working condition before the tour. In case of any doubts, we recommend having it fully serviced by a bike shop before you embark on your journey.
Support Vehicle
Throughout the tour, you will have the security of a backup vehicle that will be with us at all times. The vehicle will transport your luggage, which we’ll move by support vehicle from each overnight stop to the next, and it can carry you if needed. The backup van will accompany us throughout the day, stopping roughly every 15 kilometers.
Safety
For your safety, wearing a helmet is mandatory during all of our biking adventures, and we strongly recommend it. If you refuse to wear a helmet, you will not be permitted to cycle. While your tour guide is well-trained in first aid and emergency rescue, it is important to note that you are largely responsible for your own safety while riding.
Terrain
The terrain featuring mainly hills, flat paths that follow a combination of tarmac and dirt roads through the countryside and rural villages. You will cycle on back roads that offer stunning, unobstructed views of the landscape, and we’ll make frequent stops every 15 kilometers to rest, snack, take pictures, and enjoy drinks.
Our guides are experienced in accommodating riders of all skill levels. In the event that you are unable to complete the distance, you can always hop into the support vehicle.
Fitness level
Our tour is designed to cater to cyclists of all levels of experience, fitness, ages, and backgrounds. We encourage all of our cyclists to embrace the challenges of the tour while respecting everyone’s individual limits.
Our tours are designed to accommodate each rider’s pace, and it’s important to note that this is not a race. We want everyone to enjoy the journey and take in the beautiful scenery at their own leisurely pace.
Health & Medical Conditions
As our tours are physically demanding, it’s essential that you are in good physical health and able to fully participate in the group tour. Before the start of your tour and at every stop during the trip, we require all travelers to provide details of any pre-existing medical conditions or to inform the tour guide if they feel unwell.
Disclosing this information is crucial to ensuring that we can respond effectively in case of an emergency. We take the safety and well-being of our travelers very seriously and appreciate your cooperation in providing us with the necessary information to keep everyone safe and healthy.
Drinking
At our company, we take hydration very seriously and strive to keep you completely hydrated throughout your tour. As you ride, we provide cold water, locally sourced fruit for energy, and soft drinks—all of which are included in the tour price.
Please note that soft drinks and other beverages during meals are not included in the tour price. While beer is readily available throughout the tour, it is not included in the price.
Extra Expenses
Our package tour includes most things, but we recommend budgeting for food and drinks if you choose to venture out at night or partake in additional activities. The cost of these activities will vary depending on what you choose to do.
We suggest bringing a small amount of cash, around US$30, for incidentals such as souvenirs or small purchases throughout the tour. Please note that this is only a recommendation, and you are free to bring more or less cash as you see fit.
Insurance
Yes, it is mandatory that all participants are well-insured for the full duration of the tour. This includes coverage for personal injury, medical expenses, death, repatriation, helicopter or aircraft rescue, loss of luggage or equipment, cancellation, or curtailments. It is important to ensure that your insurance policy does not have any exclusion clauses that limit protection for the type of activities included in your tour.
In the event of any claims related to matters for which you are insured, you should contact your insurers directly. We strongly recommend that you take out insurance at the time of booking your trip to ensure that you are covered in the event of cancellation.
Deposit
Once the tour is confirmed, we do require 30% deposited to secure the booking with us, the other 70% will be required one month before departure date. For the tours less than a month to the departure date, we will require full amount of the total tour cost.
Balance
The remaining balance must be paid 30 days before the departure date with fees for any bicycle rental(s), single supplement(s) and extra hotel nights.
Final Tour Confirmation
Upon confirmation, our team will send you a final tour confirmation containing your personal details, including flight information, advice on visa application, a suggested packing list, and a detailed tour itinerary. Additionally, we will provide you with a checklist to help ensure you have everything you need for your upcoming holiday.
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