Sri Lanka Coast to Coast Cycling Holiday

Tour Overview

Experience a unique coast-to-coast cycling adventure that unveils a rich tapestry of Sri Lankan culture and nature. This meticulously crafted tour showcases lesser-known destinations and scenic back-road routes, providing a genuine glimpse into the heart of Sri Lanka. Highlights include visits to the ancient capitals of Yapahuwa and Polonnaruwa, exhilarating safaris in Minneriya and Udawalawe National Parks, encounters with untouched wilderness in Maha Oya and Arugam Bay, and explorations of cultural hubs like Baticalao, Galle, and Colombo. Your cycling journey predominantly traverses back roads and jeep trails, ensuring a peaceful ride away from traffic and main thoroughfares. The terrain is largely flat, with occasional slight climbs on Day 9 offering a bit of challenge. Accommodations throughout the tour range from comfortable 3-star hotels to cozy guesthouses and welcoming homestays, enhancing your immersion into Sri Lanka's diverse landscapes and warm hospitality.

Sri Lanka Coast to Coast Cycling Tour

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Day 1: Yapahuwa: Upon arrival at the airport, you'll be greeted and driven to Yapahuwa (approximately 2.5 hours). Take some time to unwind after your flight. You can also check and prepare your bicycles for the journey ahead. As a warm-up, consider cycling to the Yapahuwa Temple Ruins and Museum.
Day 2: Habarana: Today, your cycling adventure begins as you head towards Habarana. After a short transfer from your hotel, your bikes await for you to start the tour. The route winds through small villages and forests, passing by local shops, houses, and schools, offering glimpses of rural life. Keep an eye out as you enter elephant territory. Upon reaching your hotel, you have the option to embark on a safari in Minneriya National Park (optional activity; fees apply).
Day 3: Polonnaruwa: You'll be transferred to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa today. Upon arrival, hop on your bike and explore the ruins of this historic Sri Lankan capital with the assistance of a local archaeological guide. In the afternoon, you can opt for a guided walk with a primatologist to learn about the various monkey families that inhabit the area (optional activity).
Day 4: Maha Oya: Today promises one of the most breathtaking cycling experiences. You'll pedal from Polonnaruwa to Maha Oya through a forest reserve. Along the way, you'll pass the expansive Maha Oya reservoir, where a picnic lunch awaits, all while keeping watch for elephants in their natural habitat.
Day 5: Batticaloa: Your journey continues towards the east coast today. Notice the subtle changes in architecture and attire as you cycle towards Batticaloa, a quaint urban town. It's a delightful contrast from the wilderness of the past few days.
Day 6: Exploring Palamunai: Today, explore the southern part of Batticaloa by cycling along the beach, visiting the fish market, and perhaps exploring local organic gardens depending on the season. Meet handloom weavers crafting colorful sarees and sarongs, and gain insight into their traditional craft. Experience the midday prayer at a local mosque and enjoy a traditional lunch prepared by a local family. Afterwards, visit the Heritage Museum in bustling Kattankudy.
Day 7: Arugam Bay: Cycle further south along the east coast to Arugam Bay, renowned for its surfing beaches. While the beaches are famous, the inland wildlife and nature are equally pristine, offering a serene environment away from the waves.
Day 8: Arugam Bay: Today, add an extra element to your journey with a tuk-tuk safari through the jungles of Arugam Bay led by a local naturalist. Spot crocodiles, take a leisurely walk through the jungle, and catch a mesmerizing sunset at Elephant Rock on your return.
Day 9: Katharagama: Enjoy another scenic cycling day as you traverse through Lahugalla sanctuary towards the hills of Monaragala. Cycle on secluded back roads frequented only by locals, encountering peacocks and mongoose along the way. Arrive in Katharagama, where you can visit the revered Katharagama Temple and receive a blessing from a temple priest in the evening.
Day 10: Udawalawe: Today's journey takes you to Udawalawe, starting on an abandoned 4-lane highway that transitions into a mud trail alongside the Lunuganwera Reservoir, offering ample bird-watching opportunities. Upon arrival, don't miss trying freshly made buffalo curd sold by local vendors. Opt for a safari in Udawalawe National Park to spot wildlife (optional activity; fees apply).
Day 11: Galle: Cycle and transfer to the colonial gem of Galle, renowned for its historic fort built by the Portuguese and later fortified by the Dutch. Explore its vibrant mix of cultures, from fashionable boutiques to local schools and religious sites. Consider joining a guided walk with a knowledgeable local resident (optional activity).
Day 12: Colombo: No trip to Sri Lanka is complete without a visit to Colombo, the bustling capital city. Your centrally located hotel allows easy exploration of the city on foot. Consider joining a guided food walk to discover local culinary delights (optional activity).
Day 13: Departure: Your cycling holiday concludes today with a transfer to the airport for your onward journey, leaving you with fond memories of Sri Lanka's diverse landscapes, culture, and warm hospitality.