Cycle Sri Lanka

Intrepid Travel · 14 days
Cycle Sri Lanka
Cycle Sri Lanka
Cycle Sri Lanka
Cycle Sri Lanka
Cycle Sri Lanka
Cycle Sri Lanka
Cycle Sri Lanka
Cycle Sri Lanka
Cycle Sri Lanka
Cycle Sri Lanka
Cycle Sri Lanka
Cycle Sri Lanka
Cycle Sri Lanka
Cycle Sri Lanka
Cycle Sri Lanka
Cycle Sri Lanka
Cycle Sri Lanka
14 Days
From AUD $3930
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Average

Rating


(20 reviews)

Cycle Sri Lanka

Cycle Sri Lanka

Intrepid Travel · 14 days
Duration

14 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Guided by an expert local leader, this 14-day cycling trip through Sri Lanka will take you to tea plantations, fishing villages, national parks, cities and lush green jungles.

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.

Trip Details

Duration

14 days

Transportation

Bicycle (e-bike option available,subject to availability),Support vehicle,Train,Jeep

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Negombo, Sri Lanka

Finishes

Colombo, Sri Lanka

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Cycling

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Negombo
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)
2
Day 2: Chilaw & Anuradhapura
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)
3
Day 3: Anuradhapura
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)
4
Day 4: Ritigala & Polonnaruwa
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)
5
Day 5: Polonnaruwa & Dambulla
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)
6
Day 6: Sigriya Rock & Kandy
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)
7
Day 7: Kandy
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)
8
Day 8: Hatton
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. Time permitting, you can take on an optional trek of Adam's Peak – a conical 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)
9
Day 9: Tissamaharama
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)
10
Day 10: Yala National Park
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)
11
Day 11: Mirissa
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)
12
Day 12: Mirissa & Galle
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)
13
Day 13: Colombo
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)
14
Day 14: Colombo
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.
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $3,930
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 14 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

Guided by an expert local leader, this 14-day cycling trip through Sri Lanka will take you to tea plantations, fishing villages, national parks, cities and lush green jungles.

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 14 Feb 2026

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
4.0
Jenny
Traveled, March 2024

04/12/2024

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.

4.0
Judith and Baden
Traveled, March 2024

04/12/2024

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.

Tour Operator

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