| Number of Cycling Days: 05Days | Total Cycling Distance: 222 Km |
| Accommodation: Included | Bike Hire: Included |
| Single Supplement: Supplement Charge | Tour Code: SRL |
| Next departure: 05th March, 2026 | Difficulty: Moderate |
Discover the hidden beauty of the island with our Sri Lanka Backroad Cycling Tour, a unique adventure designed for travelers who crave authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. This immersive bike tour takes you through quiet rural roads, lush tea plantations, ancient cities, and remote villages, far from the typical tourist trail. Pedal through breathtaking landscapes, from jungle-lined paths and rice paddies to sacred temples and scenic coastlines. Along the way, connect with local communities, sample traditional Sri Lankan cuisine, and witness the rich biodiversity of national parks. Ideal for cyclists of all levels, this backroads tour combines nature, culture, and adventure for a truly unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka.
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and meet our ASIA BACKROAD team before a short transfer to your beachfront hotel in Negombo. This lively coastal town is the perfect place to relax after your flight. Enjoy free time to unwind, explore the beach, or take a swim. In the evening, join a welcome dinner and taste authentic Sri Lankan cuisine while meeting your fellow cyclists.
After breakfast, enjoy a short transfer to Mawanella before starting your ride through Sri Lanka’s scenic countryside. Cycle past coconut and rubber plantations, local villages, and vibrant rice paddies, experiencing the island’s rural charm. The route climbs gently through the beautiful Balana Gap, offering rewarding views of the misty highlands. After the descent, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya before finishing the ride in Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage city and home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic.
After breakfast, enjoy a short transfer to Matale, the heart of Sri Lanka’s spice region. Begin cycling along peaceful backroads through spice plantations, fruit orchards, rice paddies, and rural villages, offering an authentic glimpse of local life. The ride combines smooth roads and quiet countryside trails before reaching Dambulla. Visit the iconic Golden Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ancient Buddha statues and murals. The day ends with relaxation at your hotel in Dambulla.
Cycle from Dambulla to Sigiriya along quiet country roads, passing Kandalama Lake and scenic countryside. Arrive at the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress (Lion Rock), a UNESCO World Heritage site, and hike to the summit to explore ancient frescoes, royal gardens, and enjoy panoramic views. After the descent, take a short transfer to Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s medieval capital and another UNESCO treasure. Check in at your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Start the day with an exciting jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, famous for its wildlife and the seasonal Elephant Gathering. Spot elephants, deer, buffalo, crocodiles, and a rich variety of birdlife in their natural habitat.
After the safari, cycle along peaceful forest trails and rural backroads back to Polonnaruwa, stopping at the scenic Parakrama Samudra lake for a relaxing break. In the afternoon, explore the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Polonnaruwa by bike, discovering royal ruins, stupas, and the iconic Gal Vihara Buddha statues.
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic transfer to Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage site and Sri Lanka’s sacred ancient capital. Cycle through this vast archaeological city along flat, tree-lined roads, passing ancient stupas, monasteries, royal ruins, and bathing tanks. Visit the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, one of the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. The day ends with relaxation at your hotel in peaceful surroundings.
After breakfast, transfer from Anuradhapura to Colombo. Depending on your flight schedule, you will be dropped off at Bandaranaike International Airport or may choose an optional extension to Galle on Sri Lanka’s south coast. Your Sri Lanka cycling adventure concludes with unforgettable memories of ancient cities, scenic backroads, and rich cultural experiences.
Your cycling journey is led by experienced local guides who are passionate about the regions you explore. Small groups are supported by an English-speaking cycling guide and support driver, while larger groups are accompanied by a dedicated Tour Leader, cycling guides, drivers, and support assistants. Our guides are skilled cyclists with deep knowledge of local history, culture, and traditions, ensuring a safe, smooth, and enriching cycling experience.
We provide high-quality, well-maintained mountain bikes from trusted brands, selected to match the terrain and style of each tour. Our experienced cycling guides carry essential repair tools and are on hand to assist with basic mechanical issues, allowing you to ride with confidence and focus on the experience.
If you choose to bring your own bike, please ensure it is in excellent condition. We strongly recommend a professional service before the tour, as only standard repairs can be supported on the road.
A fully equipped support vehicle accompanies the tour at all times, carrying your luggage and providing full logistical support between overnight stops. Riders are welcome to rest in the vehicle at any time if needed. Regular stops are made approximately every 15 km for refreshments, rest breaks, and mechanical assistance, ensuring a smooth and comfortable cycling experience for all fitness levels.
Your safety is our top priority. Helmets are mandatory for all riders no exceptions. Our guides are trained in first aid and carry basic medical supplies, while a support vehicle is always available. Riders are responsible for their personal safety, and we strongly recommend having travel insurance that covers cycling and medical emergencies.
Our Sri Lanka backroad cycling tours feature mostly flat routes on a mix of tarmac and dirt paths, winding through scenic countryside, rice fields, and rural villages. Frequent stops every 15 km allow for rest, refreshments, and photos. Experienced guides tailor the ride to all skill levels, with a support vehicle available for added comfort and flexibility.
Our Sri Lanka cycling tours are designed for riders of all fitness levels and experience, from beginners to seasoned cyclists. Tours are flexible, allowing you to ride at your own pace while enjoying scenic landscapes and local culture. Frequent rest stops ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Our cycling tours are physically active, so participants should be in good health. Please inform your guide of any pre-existing medical conditions before the tour and at rest stops. This ensures we can respond appropriately in case of emergencies and maintain a safe, comfortable environment for all riders.
We prioritize keeping you hydrated and energized throughout your cycling tour. Cold water, locally sourced fruit, and soft drinks are provided during rides and included in the tour price. (Beverages with meals, including beer, are not included.) Staying refreshed ensures you can fully enjoy the scenic landscapes and cultural experiences along the route.
Our cycling tour packages cover most essentials, but additional costs may include meals, optional activities, souvenirs, or tips. We recommend budgeting around US$30 for incidentals, though this can vary based on personal preferences. Planning for these extras ensures a smooth and enjoyable tour experience.
Solo travelers are warmly welcome on our cycling tours. By default, you’ll be paired with another rider of the same gender in twin-share accommodation. Private single rooms are also available for an additional cost on most tours.
Travel insurance is mandatory for all participants. Your policy should cover personal injury, medical expenses, emergency evacuation, repatriation, trip cancellation, and loss or theft of luggage and cycling gear. Ensure your insurance includes cycling and adventure activities without exclusion clauses. Participants are responsible for claims, and we recommend purchasing insurance at the time of booking.
A 30% deposit is required to confirm your tour booking, securing accommodations, transport, and support services. The remaining 70% is due one month before departure. Bookings made less than 30 days prior require full payment at confirmation. Early booking ensures your spot and provides flexibility and peace of mind.
The remaining balance is due at least 30 days before departure and should include any extra fees, such as bike rentals, single room supplements, or additional hotel nights. Timely payment ensures all accommodations, logistics, and support services are confirmed. Late payment may result in booking cancellation.
Once your tour is confirmed, you’ll receive a complete final tour package, including your personal details, flight information, visa guidance, a recommended packing list, detailed day-by-day itinerary, and a pre-departure checklist. This ensures a smooth, stress-free preparation so you can focus on enjoying your cycling adventure and exploring the stunning landscapes and cultures of Sri Lanka.
Still looking for the perfect cycling adventure?
We’ll craft your perfect cycling adventure your way. Whether it’s customizing an existing route, setting off on a standard tour at a time that suits you, or designing a completely unique journey, we’ve got you covered!
