| Number of Cycling Days: 05 Days | Total Cycling Distance: 222 Km |
| Accommodation: Included | Bike Hire: Included |
| Single Supplement: Supplement Charge | Tour Code: SRL |
| Next departure: 02 November, 2025 | 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.
Cycle through lush tea plantations and cultural villages
Explore ancient sites like Sigiriya and Dambulla Rock Temples
Experience the charm of Kandy and Colonial Towns
Ride through Sri Lanka’s tranquil backroads, away from the crowds
Enjoy authentic Sri Lankan hospitality in local villages
Day 1: Welcome to Sri Lanka – Arrival in Negombo
Your unforgettable cycling tour in Sri Lanka begins as you arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport. Our friendly team will greet you with a warm Sri Lankan welcome before transferring you to your cozy beachfront hotel in Negombo, a vibrant coastal town just north of Colombo.
After check-in, take some time to relax, explore the scenic surroundings, or enjoy a refreshing swim. In the evening, we’ll gather for a delightful welcome dinner featuring authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, an ideal opportunity to meet your fellow cyclists, get introduced to the tour guides, and get a glimpse of the thrilling adventures that lie ahead.
Day 2: Cycle from Negombo to Kandy
After a hearty breakfast, your Sri Lanka cycling adventure kicks into gear with an early morning transfer to the lush town of Mawanella, the gateway to Sri Lanka’s central highlands. From here, we begin pedaling through a patchwork of coconut and rubber plantations, charming villages, and emerald-green rice paddy fields—a truly immersive way to experience the rural heart of the island.
As we gain momentum, the terrain gently shifts. Our route takes us through the Balana Gap, a scenic mountain pass offering a satisfying climb with panoramic views of the misty highlands. This section offers a great blend of challenge and natural beauty, ideal for both experienced and recreational cyclists.
At the summit, we coast downhill to the renowned Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, home to over 4,000 species of exotic plants. This peaceful interlude invites you to stroll among ancient trees, orchids, and spice gardens—a true haven for nature lovers.
The final leg leads us into the cultural capital of Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled beside a tranquil lake. Famous for the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), Kandy is not just a historical gem but a spiritual epicenter where tradition, architecture, and serenity converge.
Day 3: Cycle from Kandy to Dambulla
After a nourishing breakfast, we begin with a short transfer to the colorful town of Matale, known as the heart of Sri Lanka’s spice country. Here, fragrant clove trees, cinnamon, pepper vines, and nutmeg plantations line the roads, offering a sensory-rich introduction to the region’s agricultural heritage.
From Matale, we hop on our bikes and cycle toward Dambulla, following a scenic route that weaves through quiet backroads, fruit orchards, expansive rice paddies, and fields of towering elephant grass. This leg of the journey combines smooth tarmac with rustic red-dirt trails, giving riders a taste of authentic rural Sri Lanka.
Our ride concludes at the awe-inspiring Golden Temple of Dambulla, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic landmarks in the country. Carved into a massive granite outcrop, this complex of ancient cave temples dates back to the 1st century BC. Adorned with over 150 stunning Buddha statues and intricate murals, these sacred caves were once the refuge of King Valagamba, who later transformed them into a place of devotion after reclaiming his throne.
After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere and panoramic views from the temple, we head to our comfortable hotel in Dambulla. The afternoon is yours to unwind, perhaps with a swim or a quiet moment surrounded by nature before gathering for a well-earned dinner.
Day 4: Cycle from Dambulla to Sigiriya and Explore Polonnaruwa
Your day begins with a scenic bike ride from Dambulla to Sigiriya, following quiet country roads that wind past Kandalama Lake and through the lush Sri Lankan countryside. As we ride, the towering silhouette of Sigiriya Rock Fortress also known as Lion Rock emerges on the horizon, creating a dramatic focal point against the flat plains. This awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage site dates back to the 5th century and is considered one of the most iconic landmarks in Sri Lanka.
Upon reaching Sigiriya, we park our bikes and set off on a rewarding hike to the summit of this ancient rock citadel. Along the way, marvel at the famous Sigiriya frescoes, the enigmatic Mirror Wall, and the remnants of royal gardens and moats. Originally built as a royal palace by King Kashyapa and later transformed into a Buddhist monastery, Sigiriya offers not only a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s history but also breathtaking 360-degree views from the top.
After descending from the rock, we enjoy a short vehicle transfer to the historic city of Polonnaruwa, another UNESCO-listed site and once the thriving medieval capital of Sri Lanka. On arrival, check in to your comfortable hotel where you can relax, unwind, or enjoy a sunset stroll before dinner.
Day 5: Safari Adventure and Cycling Exploration – Polonnaruwa to Minneriya National Park
Today offers a thrilling blend of wildlife and cultural discovery. We begin the morning with an exciting jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, one of the top wildlife reserves in Sri Lanka and world-renowned for the Minneriya Elephant Gathering, a spectacular natural event where hundreds of wild elephants congregate around the park’s central reservoir during the dry season.
Keep your camera ready as we venture into the park in search of Sri Lanka’s famous wildlife, including herds of elephants, wild buffalo, crocodiles, sloth bears, spotted deer, sambhur, leopards, jackals, and an impressive array of birds and butterflies. This safari offers a rare chance to experience these majestic animals in their natural habitat.
After a light refreshment break, we hop back on our bikes and pedal along quiet forest trails and rural backroads on our return journey to Polonnaruwa. We stop at the Polonnaruwa Tank (Parakrama Samudra), an ancient man-made lake surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for a lakeside lunch and a moment of relaxation.
In the afternoon, we dive into the rich history of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s second ancient capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As we explore this remarkably preserved 10th-century city by bike, you’ll discover impressive ruins of palaces, royal baths, towering stupas, and intricately carved statues, including the iconic Gal Vihara Buddha sculptures.
Day 6: Polonnaruwa to Anuradhapura, the Sacred Ancient Capital
Today’s journey takes us deep into the heart of Sri Lanka’s ancient civilization. After breakfast, we embark on a scenic 2-hour transfer to Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Founded in the 4th century BC, Anuradhapura was the capital of the Sinhalese Kingdom for over a millennium, and remains a powerful symbol of the island’s cultural and religious heritage.
Once we arrive, we begin our cycling exploration of Anuradhapura, pedaling through a flat, expansive archaeological site dotted with centuries-old stupas, stone monasteries, bathing tanks, and royal palaces. The peaceful, tree-lined roads make for easy riding and allow you to immerse yourself in the serenity of this sacred city.
One of the day’s highlights is a visit to the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, believed to be the oldest documented tree in the world. It was grown from a sapling of the sacred fig tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, making this site one of the most venerated pilgrimage destinations in the Buddhist world.
As the sun sets over the ancient ruins, we return to our hotel for a well-earned rest. Take a dip in the pool or relax in the tranquil surroundings before dinner, reflecting on a day filled with spiritual history and scenic cycling.
Day 7: Farewell from the Cultural North – Transfer from Anuradhapura to Colombo
After a final breakfast in the sacred city of Anuradhapura, we bid farewell to Sri Lanka’s cultural heartland. Today, we journey south with a comfortable transfer to Colombo, the vibrant commercial capital of Sri Lanka.
Depending on your travel plans, you’ll either be dropped off at Bandaranaike International Airport for your onward flight, or you can continue your journey with an optional trip extension to Galle, the charming coastal city known for its colonial Dutch Fort, boutique cafes, and golden beaches.
As your unforgettable Sri Lanka cycling tour comes to an end, take with you the memories of ancient ruins, lush landscapes, and the warm smiles of the island’s people.
Your cycling adventure will be led by experienced local cycling tour guides who are passionate about the regions you’ll explore. For groups of fewer than 5 participants, your team will include an English-speaking cycling guide and a support driver. For groups of 6 or more, you’ll be accompanied by a dedicated Cycling Tour Leader, an English-speaking cycling guide, drivers, and support assistants to ensure smooth logistics and a comfortable experience.
All of our guides are deeply knowledgeable about the local history, culture, and religious traditions of the areas you’ll be riding through. They are not only skilled cyclists but also excellent storytellers, eager to share the rich heritage of Cambodia and Laos with you.
You’ll be riding high-quality mountain bikes from reputable brands, chosen based on the nature of the tour and terrain. All bikes are well-maintained to ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride.
Throughout the tour, your cycling guide will carry a comprehensive repair toolkit and assist with any basic mechanical issues, so you can focus on enjoying the ride. You’ll only need to bring a small daypack for personal items like your camera, water, and essentials.
Please note: while we are equipped for standard repairs, we cannot cover every possible mechanical issue. If you plan to bring your own bike, it is essential that it’s in excellent working condition. We strongly recommend having it professionally serviced by a certified bike shop prior to the tour to avoid complications on the road.
To ensure your comfort and safety, a fully equipped support vehicle will accompany the cycling tour at all times. This backup van provides logistical support and peace of mind throughout your journey. The support vehicle will carry your luggage, transporting it from one overnight stop to the next, so you can enjoy your ride without the burden of heavy bags.
If at any point you feel tired or need a break from cycling, you’re welcome to hop into the vehicle and relax. The van will make regular stops, approximately every 15 kilometers, to provide refreshments, mechanical support, or a rest opportunity.
Our cycling tour support system is designed to ensure a smooth, flexible, and enjoyable ride for cyclists of all levels.
Your safety is our top priority on every cycling adventure. For this reason, wearing a helmet is mandatory for all participants, no exceptions. Riders who choose not to wear a helmet will not be allowed to cycle under any circumstances.
Our cycling tour guides are trained in first aid and emergency response, and they carry basic medical supplies at all times. However, it’s important to understand that while we provide support, you are ultimately responsible for your personal safety during the ride.
We also recommend that all riders maintain appropriate travel insurance that covers cycling-related activities and potential medical emergencies.
The terrain on our Sri Lanka backroad cycling offers a diverse mix of paths, making it suitable for cyclists of all skill levels. You’ll primarily ride on flat routes that combine tarmac roads and dirt paths, winding through scenic countryside and charming rural villages.
Expect to cycle along backroads that offer unobstructed views of lush landscapes, picturesque rice fields, and authentic local life. We’ll take frequent breaks every 15 kilometers, giving you the chance to rest, enjoy refreshments, snacks, and capture stunning photographs of the surroundings.
Our experienced guides are skilled at tailoring the ride to meet the needs of all participants. If at any point you feel unable to complete the ride, the support vehicle will be available to assist you, ensuring a comfortable and flexible experience.
Our package tour designed to accommodate cyclists of all fitness levels, experience, ages, and backgrounds. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, we encourage you to embrace the challenges of the journey while respecting your own personal limits.
We understand that each rider has a different pace, so our tours are flexible and tailored to ensure everyone can enjoy the experience. It’s important to remember that our tours are not races, the focus is on enjoying the scenic landscapes and immersing yourself in the local culture at your own comfortable pace.
With plenty of opportunities to rest and refresh, you’ll have the chance to cycle at a speed that suits you while making the most of the stunning views along the way.
As our cycling tours are physically demanding, it’s important that all participants are in good physical health and capable of fully engaging in the tour activities. Before the start of the tour, and at each rest stop during the trip, we require all travelers to disclose any pre-existing medical conditions or inform the guide if they are feeling unwell.
Providing this information is vital to ensuring that we can respond appropriately in case of an emergency and maintain the safety of all participants throughout the journey. The health and well-being of our cyclists is our top priority, and we appreciate your cooperation in helping us create a safe and comfortable environment for everyone on the tour.
We prioritize hydration to ensure you stay refreshed and energized throughout your Bike Tours Cambodia & Laos. To keep you hydrated, we provide cold water, locally sourced fruit for a natural energy boost, and soft drinks—all of which are included in your tour price.
Please note that soft drinks and other beverages served with meals are not included in the tour price. While beer is readily available along the route, it is not part of the package price.
Our goal is to keep you fueled and refreshed so you can fully enjoy the stunning landscapes and cultural experiences on your journey.
While our cycling tour packages cover most of your needs, we recommend budgeting for additional food and drinks if you decide to explore local dining options at night or participate in optional activities. The cost of these extra activities will vary depending on your choices.
For incidentals such as souvenirs, small purchases, or tips, we suggest bringing around US$30 in cash. However, this is only a recommendation, you’re welcome to bring more or less depending on your personal preferences and spending habits.
By planning for these extra expenses, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience without worrying about unexpected costs during the tour.
Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) – use local currency for all purchases.
ATMs: Widely available in cities; accept Visa & Mastercard.
Cash vs Card: Carry cash for rural areas; credit cards work in hotels and major shops.
Exchange: Use banks or licensed money changers; avoid street vendors.
Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated—tip Rs. 200–1000 depending on service.
Pro Tip: Keep small notes for tuk-tuks, local markets, and street vendors.
We warmly welcome solo travelers alongside couples and friends. Our tour prices are based on twin-share accommodation, meaning if you sign up as a solo traveler, you will be paired with another participant of the same gender in your group.
However, if you prefer private accommodation, you can opt for a single room at an additional cost, available on most of our tours.
Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date in Sri Lanka.
Visa Requirement: Most travelers need a Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or tourist visa before arrival.
ETA Application: Apply online via the official ETA portal (eta.gov.lk) for a 30-day tourist visa (extendable).
Visa on Arrival: Available for some nationalities, but applying in advance is recommended to avoid delays.
Entry Requirements: Have proof of return ticket, sufficient funds, and accommodation details ready on arrival.
Travel insurance is mandatory for all participants joining our tour. Your insurance policy must provide comprehensive coverage for the full duration of your trip, including:
It’s essential that your insurance policy covers adventure and cycling activities and does not include exclusion clauses that could invalidate claims related to your tour.
In the event of a claim, participants are responsible for contacting their insurance providers directly. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance at the time of booking to ensure you are covered in case of unexpected cancellations or changes before the tour begins.
To confirm your place on our tour, a 30% deposit of the total tour cost is required at the time of booking. This deposit secures your reservation and allows us to begin organizing accommodations, transport, and support services.
The remaining 70% balance is due no later than one month before the departure date.
For bookings made less than 30 days before the tour begins, we require full payment at the time of confirmation.
Booking early not only guarantees your spot but also allows you more flexibility and peace of mind when planning your adventure.
The remaining balance must be paid at least 30 days prior to the departure date. This final payment should include any applicable fees such as: Bicycle rental charges, Single supplement fees (for travelers requesting a private room), Extra hotel nights (pre- or post-tour accommodations)
Timely payment of the balance ensures that all logistics, accommodations, and support services are confirmed and ready for your adventure. Failure to pay on time may result in cancellation of your booking.
Once your tour is officially confirmed, our team will send you a comprehensive final tour confirmation package. This will include all the essential information you need to prepare for your trip, such as:
We aim to make your bike tour planning process smooth and stress-free, so you can focus on enjoying the ride and discovering the breathtaking landscapes and cultures of Southeast Asia.
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!
