Cycle Sri Lanka
Experience Overview
Guided by an expert local leader, this 10-day cycling trip through Sri Lanka will take you to tea plantations, fishing villages, national parks, cities and lush green jungles. From Negombo to Colombo, you’ll see why Sri Lanka is Asia’s most exciting new destination. With pristine coastline, ancient ruins, rugged peaks and wildlife-filled national parks, it’s a dream for travellers who like to get active. In between two-wheeled treks, you can go on safari to spot leopards, take on optional food crawls, laze on the beaches of the southern coast, ride the rails (a must in Sri Lanka), explore the country’s premier Hindu and Buddhist sites, and see the famed UNESCO World Heritage site of Sigiriya. With days of riding and nights of feasting, Sri Lanka will soon make its way to your heart.
Highlights
- Ride to Sigiriya – an ancient rock fortress surrounded by lush greenery. Climb the stairs of Lion Rock and be rewarded for your efforts with a morning breakfast at the top with panoramic views.
- Cycle to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Anuradhapura and enjoy a guided bicycle tour of the ancient city, riding through woodlands, exploring the ruins and getting a peek of the sacred old Bo Tree.
- Step back in time as you explore Sri Lanka’s most important religious and heritage sites, including the Temple of Tooth Relic and Kataragama.
- Join optional food crawls in most locations and connect with the best local street food – from the freshly caught seafood of Negombo to the pulsing night markets of Colombo, this is the best way to experience Sri Lanka’s food cuisine.
- After cycling through cities, national parks and historic sites, take the chance to relax on the sandy beaches of the southern coast. Go swimming in the clear waters, take an optional cycle to nearby Weligama to see the colourful fishing boats selling their catch on the shore and watch the sunset.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, World Bicycle Relief. Donations provide school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas with bicycles that provide access to education, healthcare, and income.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2192
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Bicycle (e-bike option available,subject to availability),Support vehicle,Train,Jeep
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: HPXC
Starts: Negombo, Sri Lanka
Finishes: Colombo, Sri Lanka
Duration: 14 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Average
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (12), Lunch (10), Dinner (2)Accommodation: Hotels (13 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $3,230 ($231 /day)
Itinerary
Ayu-bowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka. Your adventure begins in the town of Negombo, close to the airport. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 5:30 pm tonight, but if you arrive early, you can get into the spirit of seaside Sri Lanka by observing the local fishing craft in the town. Maybe feast on fresh seafood or rent a bike from the hotel reception and explore the surrounding countryside on two wheels. Tonight, your leader will have great recommendations for local dinner spots.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Rise early and have some breakfast at the hotel, then start your cycling adventure with a test-ride through the city streets. Cycle from Negombo to Chilaw, through fishing villages, the scenic Dutch canal, coconut plantations and various tile factories. Sit down for a picnic lunch when you arrive in Chilaw. After, hop aboard a coach and travel to Anuradhapura. Here, you can settle into your hotel, relax and perhaps take a swim in the pool. You have the option of joining a 'food crawl' through the streets and markets of Anuradhapura tonight – this is a great chance to sample some tasty local cuisine.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, cycle to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Anuradhapura for a guided bicycle tour of the ancient city. Among the ruins you'll see the sacred old Bo Tree – a spiritual reminder of the beginnings of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and the inspiration for Anuradhapura's great buildings. The ruins themselves are spread over quite a large area, with some in woodland settings and others appearing more cultivated with columns and ponds dotted throughout. Visit the impressive Isurumuniya Temple and the Anuradhapura Museum, then sit down with your group for a local lunch. Return to the hotel for a free afternoon and evening.
Included Activities:
- Anuradhapura - Bodhi Tree Temple
- Anuradhapura - World Heritage Site of ancient kingdom ruins
- Anuradhapura - Isurumuniya Temple
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Cycle from Anuradhapura to Ritigala this morning, passing rice paddies, man-made water tanks and jungle scenery. Have some lunch along the way at a countryside kiosk then visit the beautiful Ritigala monastery, which dates back nearly 2000 years and is named after the mountain on which it sits. After exploring the site and learning a thing or two about its local mythology, board a coach and travel to Polonnaruwa. When you arrive, take the opportunity to relax and recharge.
Included Activities:
- Ritigala Monastery Entrance
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Saddle up for a morning ride to Polonnaruwa – the second oldest kingdom in Sri Lanka. Visit the Vihara Temple, Parakrama Statue and Siva Temple while you explore the site, then cycle to Diyabeduma. The scenery along the way includes sanctuaries, man-made channels and farmlands. Refuel with a picnic lunch then travel from to Dambulla by coach. In the evening, you'll visit the Dambulla wholesale vegetable market, where there will be an option to join in on a local food crawl.
Included Activities:
- Polonnaruwa ancient ruins
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Early this morning, you’ll cycle from your hotel in Dambulla to Sigiriya – this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to an ancient rock fortress that sits 200 m high among the surrounding gardens and reservoirs. Along the way, see the water garden, the boulder garden, the mirror wall and Sigiriya's frescos. You’ll want your camera today as the image of this site against the skyline is one to remember. Hike to the top of the fortress and enjoy some well-earned breakfast at the peak, taking in the panoramic views. After, jump back on your bike and pedal your way through the countryside, stopping for lunch at a spice garden near Matale. Enjoy a rest in the support vehicle as you drive the final leg to Kandy. Tonight, you’ll be treated to a traditional Kandyan dance performance – an insight into an age-old culture.
Included Activities:
- Sigiriya - Lion Rock Fortress Visit
Optional Activities:
- Kandy - Cultural Dance Performance (7 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast at the hotel, you have the option to either head out for some extra cycling in the Hanthana Mountain Range (weather/time permitting) or stay in Kandy and explore. Later this morning, you’ll head to Giragama for a guided tour of a tea factory, learning about how Sri Lanka's favourite drink is made and sampling some of the delicious varieties. For lunch, visit the Hela Bojun Restaurant – a social enterprise founded by the agriculture ministry of the Sri Lankan government to provide employment for women from local communities while training and empowering them. Try some Sri Lankan dishes prepared by the women while learning a little more about the restaurant and their important mission. The rest of the afternoon is free. Tonight, visit the Temple of Tooth Relic – the most important Buddhist site in the country – then return to town for a food crawl.
Included Activities:
- Kandy - Temple of the Tooth
- Kandy - Hela Bojun social enterprise lunch
- Giragama Tea Factory Tour
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Transfer to Kandy railway station after breakfast this morning. From the station, you’ll embark on a scenic train trip from Kandy to Hatton, where you’ll then cycle to Maskeliya. Ride through leafy tea plantations to your lunch spot, where you’ll enjoy an authentic Tamil meal from a local kiosk. Check into your guesthouse, then relax this afternoon. If you like, you can take on an optional trek of Adam's Peak – a conical, snow-capped mountain that sits at 2243 m high. The pilgrimage season runs from late May to early December and is a fascinating time to visit.
Included Activities:
- Scenic train ride from Kandy to Hatton
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Enjoy a hearty breakfast before cycling down from Bogawanthalawa to Balangoda. This is a short ride but one of the most beautiful stretches of road in Sri Lanka, following a path along the tea plantations and pine forest passes. Alongside mountainous views, you’ll cycle through tall trees, lush vegetation and serene landscapes with a soundtrack of birdsong. Maybe see some trickling waterfalls before stopping among the green slopes of Balangoda for lunch. Then, transfer to Tissamaharama. When you arrive, wind down at your hotel and share stories over a group dinner.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Cycle the tree lines roads through villages from Tissamaharama to Kataragama after breakfast. The holy city of Kataragama is a colourful and vibrant religious centre that rivals Adam's Peak in terms of national importance. This is where the two-week Kataragama Festival attracts thousands of Hindus and tourists each year in July/August. After, take a jeep ride through the beautiful Yala National Park – home to elephants, crocodiles and waterbirds like the great thick-knee. Yala also lays claim to one of the world's highest concentration of leopards! Return to Tissamaharama for the night where you’ll sit down for a group dinner.
Included Activities:
- Yala/Udawalawe National Park - Wildlife safari
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, cycle from Tissamaharama to Hambantota via Bundala National Park. After lunch at Hambantota, continue to Mirissa on your bike. You’ll have a free afternoon of beach time in Mirissa, where you can chill out and swim. The beach itself is a long curve of sand with clear waters, perfect for taking a dip and watching the sunset. You can also cycle to nearby Weligama, where the colourful fishing boats bring fresh fish to sell along the shore. The local cottage industry of lace products is also well worth a look if you’re seeking something authentic to bring home.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Enjoy a free morning to relax. Later, you’ll drive to Galle – home to an impressive World Heritage-listed Dutch fort. Surrounded by the ocean on three sides and filled with fascinating landmarks like ancient mosques, churches, museums, and boutiques its maze of gallery-filled narrow streets showcase a unique mix of European architecture and South Asian traditions, reflecting over 400 years of rich history. Spend the afternoon exploring on a leader-led guided walk, then in the early evening watch the sunset from the ramparts before driving back to Mirissa.
Included Activities:
- Galle - Galle Fort Walking tour
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Depart Mirissa after breakfast and drive to Colombo. When you arrive, check into your hotel and then head out on a leader-led walk of the city, passing the bustling Petta Bazaar, Independence Square, Parliament and the National Museum. You’ll finish at the Barefoot fairtrade store, where you can find a collection of handicrafts from around the country and support small cottage industries. Tonight, there's an optional group food crawl to celebrate your journey. If you’d like to celebrate a trip well travelled, you’ll head to the local market stalls and tuck into some of Sri Lanka’s best street foods.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
There are no activities planned after breakfast today and your adventure comes to an end. You're free to leave at any time after check out. If you'd like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Jenny - Traveled, March 2024
Cycle Sri Lanka:- Don’t hesitate, book! This has been the most fantastic trip. Yes, for me some of the cycling elements were hard, partly because of the heat and humidity and my cycling hill fitness but the total experience of seeing the real Sri Lanka lead by the wonderful Dodan has been fantastic.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/12/2024
Judith and Baden - Traveled, March 2024
Sri Lanka cycling was an incredible experience and a privilege to meet the experience the real Sri Lanka on the road less traveled. Dodan our tour leader was superb with his knowledge and humor and ability to show us all facets of Sri Lankan life. If you enjoy and active holiday in a rich and vibrant country with the most friendly people, come to Sri Lanka.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/12/2024
Hilary - Traveled, March 2024
Cycling Sri Lanka! What a way to experience this country up close. The wonderful scenery, the rich history and culture, the incredible food and the warm and welcoming people made this trip very special. Many thanks to our incredible crew, Vidu, Kasun, Danuska, Samntha and Kavindu for making our trip an unforgettable experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/28/2024
Matthias - Traveled, March 2024
Excellent cycling trip with great very-well experienced tour leaders with fantastic service attitude , perfectly organized and great itinerary!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/30/2024
Joanna - Traveled, March 2024
This excellent trip is an amazing way to see Sri Lanka.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/13/2024
Kathy - Traveled, April 2024
Highly recommend this holiday. A real insight into life in Sri Lanka, with lots of variety. The people are so welcoming. It is uplifting to see so many smiling happy people. The food is fabulous & you can eat well on a very limited budget. Our tour guide Ku was particularly good & his team catered for all our needs, with drinks & snacks at the ready & moving our luggage from place to place. The cycling was well organised. I felt safe at all times and had lots of laughter too!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/26/2024
Sally - Traveled, April 2024
I have just completed a cycle tour of Sri Lanka. It has been the most magical experience and very much because of our leader Kumaru and his fabulous team. Such welcoming people, such a colourful country, I would love to return again in the future
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/26/2024
Robin - Traveled, March 2024
An amazing tour of Sri Lanka, had an unforgettable holiday with superb support crew, fellow travellers and such a beautiful country.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/19/2024
Andrea - Traveled, March 2024
Kumaru requested us several times to give him a good review since he wanted to be sent to Melbourne. He promised us to send the group photos and videos he took during the trip in our whatsapp group . But until today this didnt happen although we asked for it more than once . And I bet he never will. He asked for a good tip for the driver , which is rather brash . No leader had ever done this before. And he refered to the itinery tipping notes in order to receive a good tip for himself as well , of course. I think Intrepid got better leader than him. He is unreliable and all his thoughts turn around money . Moreover he wasn't honest to us. One the first evening we stayed at the Heritage Hotel he told us to have dinner at the hotel because there weren't any good restaurants around. He reason why he told us was that his wife and son were also staying in this hotel and he wanted to go out with them to have dinner . Therefore he didnt eat with the group for dinner and disappeared . This would have been no problem if he had been just honest to us and not telling us about that there weren't any restaurants around which obviously wasn't true. I really had had much better leaders than him.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/20/2024
Christine - Traveled, March 2024
This trip was really well organised, the itinerary ticked every box and our leader and his support crew were outstanding. Very highly recommend it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/13/2024
Hannah - Traveled, March 2024
Cycle Sri Lanka was phenomenal. Excellent guiding, stunning cycling routes, immersion into a rich culture. Highly recommended
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/14/2024
Christian - Traveled, February 2024
This Trip is a very good combination of activity and sightseeing. We saw a lot of the beauty of Sri Lanka. The Organisation was perfect and the Guide took very good care.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/29/2024
Esther - Traveled, February 2024
Excellently organised experiences. I learned much about a new country and its culture. Thank you!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/28/2024
Kay - Traveled, February 2024
Chandana was an excellent leader connecting us with Sri Lanka and its people. His knowledge, enthusiasm, kindness to people and animals was evident daily. The little surprises each day of meals prepared in local homes and picnics en route, were great experiences. Chandana is a great ambassador for Sri Lanka and I thoroughly recommend the trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/29/2024
Natalie - Traveled, January 2024
My husband and I did the Sri Lanka cycling trip in January. This was the first time we have traveled with Intrepid and this trip exceeded my expectations. The trip was well organized, provided a great itinerary with lots of authentic, local experiences, and I was amazed at the beauty of this country and the people. The cycling was challenging at times, but doable, and our team leader, bike crew and driver were top notch and went out of their way to keep us safe and happy. Excellent itinerary and an excellent trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/07/2024
Brian - Traveled, January 2024
The first thing to say is that this was a great cycle tour. The scenery varied from classic coconut shaded sandy beaches along the coast to golden paddy fields of rice with lotus covered lakes on the plains. In the uplands we rode through jungle and cloud forests with their iconic tea plantation terraces. Our tour leader, Ku and his crew were great throughout and ensured everybody enjoyed the cycling and culture of the island. We had an early start to ensure we avoided the worst of the heat but an e-bike certainly took the strain in the hills. Food and drink were amply provided and we experienced every kind of curry! Great company, lovely local people, wonderful scenery, bird and animal life throughout made this certainly one of the most enjoyable cycle tours we have ever experienced.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/18/2024
Anthony - Traveled, January 2024
Can't recommend this tour highly enough. If you want to see the real Sri Lanka, meet the people and taste the food on the best form of transport, with an awesome guide, this is for you.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/07/2024
Brian - Traveled, January 2024
Gentle cycling holiday through the paddy fields and tea plantations of Sri Lanka. Visit to major religious sites, nature reserves, beach resorts and hill stations.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/08/2024
Alison - Traveled, January 2024
The Sri Lankan Cycle tour is an amazing adventure. We had an authentic experience of the culture, food and diverse landscape and wildlife. Highly recommended trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/07/2024
Herman - Traveled, January 2024
This was our first trip to SE Asia and Sri Lanka. Being able to experience the country by bike allowed us to see so much more than on a coach tour. Our group leader Dodan was passionate about ensuring we experinced all we could in a two week time. We are now consider ourselves ambassadors of Sri Lanka and would encourage others seeking an exciting more adventurous vacation to consider this opportunity. We will be looking for other Intrepid bike trips in the near future. Herman Wehrle - Winnipeg, Canada
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/26/2024
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