Discover a world of spice and splendour on a two-wheeled trip across Sri Lanka.
Ride through tea plantations, quaint fishing villages, and swathes of lush green jungle on this cycling adventure from Negombo to Colombo. Sri Lanka is gaining traction as one of Asia’s most exciting new destinations and it’s not hard to see why. 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, laze on the beach, ride the rails (a must in Sri Lanka), explore the country’s premier Hindu and Buddhist sites, and taste the flavours of the tantalising night markets.
14 days from $2,990 per person share twin
What’s included
Meals
12 breakfasts, 9 lunches
Transport
Bicycle (e-bike option), Support vehicle, Train, Jeep
Accommodation (single supplement available)
Hotels (12 nights), guesthouse (1 night)
Anuradhapura – Bodhi Tree Temple
Anuradhapura – Ancient site
Anuradhapura – Isurumuniya Temple
Polonnaruwa exploration
Kandy – Cultural performance
Sigiriya – Lion Rock
Kandy – Temple of the Tooth
Udewalawe – Elephant Transit Home visit
Yala/Udawalawe National Park – Wildlife safari
Why you’ll love this 14 day trip
Cycling allows you to get closer to the real Sri Lanka, with a leopard-spotting safari and scenic train trip taking the sightseeing to the next level.
From the sensational seafood of Negombo to the pulsing night markets of Colombo, Sri Lanka a feast for the senses. Optional ‘food-crawls’ in most locations connect you with the best local street food.
Step back in time as you explore Sri Lanka’s most important religious and heritage sites, including the Temple of Tooth Relic and Kataragama.
Forget the coffee stops, this is Le Tour with a twist. Visit a tea factory in Giragama for a guided tour and taste of Sri Lanka’s most beloved beverage.
Relax and unwind along the famous sandy beaches and azure waters of Sri Lanka’s southern coast.
Experience a fascinating slice of traditional culture with a Kandyan dance performance in Kandy.
Is this trip right for you?
To complete this trip it is important that you are both confident and competent in riding a bicycle.
While the cycling distances on this trip are relatively short, the terrain of Sri Lanka is naturally hilly, so you’ll need to be reasonably fit, especially given the warm climate. The support vehicle will always be there if you need to take a break for an hour, or a day.
As the riding is mostly on sealed roads, with the occasional gravel path, there are no technical cycling skills required. But some downhill practice is a great idea before your trip.
There’s the possibility of a few hiccups along the way – perhaps a puncture here and there – but there’s no doubt this is an incredibly rewarding adventure.
The weather in this region varies seasonally. Be prepared to get sweaty, and for the occasional rainstorm which may require a change of plans.
Sri Lankan summers are very hot, with short, sharp monsoons in the south-west. Be sure to use adequate sun protection and drink plenty of water.
If you have issues with heights, you might like to opt out of climbing the Lion Rock at Sigiriya (Day 6). There are lots of rough, narrow steps and tight walkways to be overcome.
If you feel like doing all the riding but with less effort we have the option of hiring an electric bike (e-bike) on this trip.
Call Chris or Megan 03 398 3822 or email chris@fargotravel.co.nz / megan@fargotravel.co.nz to learn more.
