Current as of: December 3, 2024 - 07:47

Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka Trip Notes

  • Ways to Travel: Guided Group, Private Group Adventures
  • Destination: Sri Lanka
  • Programmes: Cycling
  • Activity Level:

    4 out of 7 - Moderate & Challenging

  • 14 Days: Land Only
  • Ages: 16+
  • Trip Code: MIR
  • Carbon Footprint: 25kg CO2e

Trip Overview

Explore the Pearl of the Indian Ocean by bike, visiting iconic landmarks and mixing with the local people 

Sri Lanka is best explored on two wheels. Hop on a bike and you experience this compact island like a local: waving to smiling children and riding through a natural paradise of tea hills, safari parks and golden coasts. On this cycling adventure, we take the quietest roads possible, with a chance to test yourself against the scenic hill regions of Kandy and Nuwara Eliya. That’s complemented with visits to iconic landmarks, including the mighty rock fortress at Sigiriya, Dambulla’s sacred cave temples and Yala National Park, where we search for the elusive leopard. And where better to end than the gold-sand beaches of the south coast? 

At a Glance

  • Accommodation: 8 Superior nights (hotels), 5 Classic nights (hotels)
  • 10 days cycling (including one optional ride) with full vehicle support
  • 95 percent paved roads, five percent unsurfaced
  • Routes mostly follow quiet backroads, with frequent climbs
  • Group normally 4 to 16, plus leader and driver. Minimum age: 16
  • E-bikes available for an additional cost

Highlights

  • Discover Sri Lanka by bike, meeting the friendly people and exploring the incredible landscapes
  • Challenge yourself on a ride through emerald tea estates to Nuwara Eliya
  • Enter Dambulla’s sacred cave temples to walk among ancient Buddha icons
  • Summit the mighty rock fortress at Sigiriya for unforgettable views over the central plains
  • Game drive through Yala National Park in search of the elusive leopard

Is This Trip for You?

This trip is rated Activity Level 4 (Moderate & Challenging). For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.

  • Average daily distance: 40mi (65km)
  • Number of cycling days: 10 (including one optional ride)
  • Vehicle support: Fully supported

The terrain is hilly, particularly around Nuwara Eliya and the hill country, but the support vehicle is available if required. Routes mostly follow quiet backroads with occasional unsurfaced sections, which may be rough in places. Rides are designed to run door-to-door without transfers. Keeping to the backroads means there is less traffic but it will become busier when approaching towns, such as Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Bandarawela, especially from Nuwara Eliya to Ella. However, these situations typically only occur during long weekends and holidays.

Please note, when visiting Sigiriya Rock Fortress (Lion Rock) the final ascent to the top is on metal open stairs fixed against the side of the rock. There are handrails on either side but those with a strong fear of heights may prefer to stay on the lower level (where the lion “paws” are) and not continue to the rock plateau.

April departures, Sinhala and Tamil New Year:

A unique celebration to the people of Sri Lanka, this important New Year national festival, known as Avurudu in Sinhala and Puththandu in Tamil, is not celebrated by any other nation. The Sinhala and Tamil New Year festivities are observed by both Sinhala Buddhists and Tamil Hindus across Sri Lanka for two days on the 12 – 13 April 2024 and 13 – 14 April 2025 (may vary slightly year on year). If you are travelling in Sri Lanka over these dates you can expect to see religious ceremonies, family activities, traditional foods, colourful decorations and a general feeling of good will toward neighbours and friends. Parties can go on into the night and it can be quite loud during this period. Your Leader will be happy to show you some of the activities where your itinerary allows. Please note, during the New Year public holiday, most shops, monuments and attractions will be closed however, your Leader will modify the itinerary as required to ensure minimal disruption

Group

Our Sri Lankan team of leaders have proved very popular with their incredible knowledge, passion and hospitality adding greatly to the experience. There is no better way to experience Sri Lankan culture than letting a local leader show you around their country. Depending on group size, there may be two cycling leaders.

Adult min age: 16

Min group size: 4

Max group size: 16

Itinerary

updated July 2023

Land Only

  • Start City: Sigiriya
  • End City: Colombo

Land Only Itinerary

Day 1
Start Sigiriya

This Sri Lankan cycling trip begins in Sigiriya. There are no planned activities today, so take time to relax in the hotel and rest those legs before our two-wheel adventure begins in earnest tomorrow. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening helmed by our tour leader; it’s a good chance to get to know the group a little and ask any questions you may have.

Accommodation: Hotel Sigiriya (or similar)

Meals included: Lunch

Day 2
Ride to Dambulla cave temple; climb Sigiriya Rock

After breakfast, we ride along gravel roads following an old irrigation canal to Dambulla, a second century BCE Buddhist cave temple. On the way we stop by the impressive Kandalama man-made reservoir, rich in bird life. On arrival to Dambulla, it is well worth the walk to view the five caves, which contain many ancient Buddha statues, some carved from the solid rock. Returning via the busy market town, we take another quiet backroad through chilli and rice fields before cycling back to our hotel for lunch and a relaxing swim in the pool. In the late afternoon, we climb the fifth-century rock fortress of Sigiriya to see the beautiful frescoes painted onto the rock face (not recommended for those who suffer from vertigo). The ruins of the palace on the summit are surpassed only by the magnificent aerial view of the surrounding jungle. Stay as long as you like, it’s only 10 minutes’ walk back to our hotel.

Accommodation: Hotel Sigiriya (or similar)

Distance covered: 32mi (52km)

Activity hours: 4

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3
Ride to Polonnaruwa; cycle tour of ruins

This morning we have a long ride along a quiet backroad, which is part of the Sigiriya nature reserve where you often come across Monitor lizards and monkeys, before joining the highway to Polonnaruwa and riding to our hotel. Later, we tour the ruined city of Polonnaruwa, which dates from the 10th to 13th century. You will have the option in the evening to join your Leader at a family owned restaurant to experience some local food and culture.

Accommodation: Hotel Giritale (or similar)

Distance covered: 45mi (73km)

Activity hours: 5

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4
Ride through foothills of spice-growing region

We follow a 4mi (6km) long artificial dam and canal to the source of a local lake, the Amban Ganga River. The afternoon ride is flanked by the Kalanduwa hills on one side and Wasgomuwa Wildlife Park on the other. And as jungle gives way to plantations, we enter the spice-growing region of Sri Lanka. The ride starts at an elevation of 328ft (100m) and the destination is at an elevation of 820ft (250m).

When we reach the main road, we dismount and board the bus for the journey as the road to Kandy can get very busy. On the way, we stop at a spice garden to learn more about the spices used in the piquant Sri Lankan curries.

Accommodation: Hotel Topaz (or similar)

Distance covered: 50mi (80km)

Ascent: 492ft (150m); Activity hours: 6

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5
Free day in Kandy

Enjoy a free day to explore. Kandy has so much to offer, including the wonderful botanical gardens, the Temple of the Tooth, and streets lined with curio shops. The surrounding hills are dotted with wonderful temples. Walk around the lake in the heart of the city to see huge water monitor lizards, fruit bats, palm squirrels, and birds such as kingfishers, pelicans and night herons. Also don’t miss the fruit and vegetable market for a chance to see busy Kandy in full swing.

Accommodation: Hotel Topaz (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 6
Challenging ride through tea estates to Nuwara Eliya

For those who feel like a challenge, it’s 52mi (84km) – climbing up to 6,562ft (2,000m) above sea level – to reach this most favoured hill station. For the first part of the ride, we take the old road, a far more pleasant route, and one of the few places where you see terraced paddy fields. Beyond is tea country, reputed to produce the finest teas on the island. We cycle through thousands of acres of tea crops, where you will spot the tea pickers moving swiftly between the bushes in their vibrant clothes.

For anyone who doesn’t do hills, we strongly recommend the train ride to Nuwara Eliya. Tickets for the train journey are dependent on availability, they can only be purchased on the day and unable to reserve in advance. If unavailable, we can use the bus instead.

Accommodation: Araliya Green Hills (or similar)

Distance covered: 52mi (84km)

Ascent: 4,921ft (1,500m); Activity hours: 9

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7
Morning ride to Nuwara Eliya town and tea factory; afternoon free

Nuwara Eliya was a popular hill station during the British era and is situated in the cool highland air at 6,200ft (1,890m). Known locally as Little England, it is dotted with British-style houses and parks and even features a golf club and racecourse.

After a leisurely breakfast, we ride into Nuwara Eliya town and then continue our ride to a tea factory through little villages and patches of vegetables. As we twist and turn on the rolling, windy road, we get to see the town from different viewpoints. After understanding the journey from leaf to cup, we ride back to the hotel through lush green tea plantations.

We then have a free afternoon to explore Nuwara Eliya. Some hotels here are locked in time, a living museum of the colonial era that existed hundred years ago.

Accommodation: Araliya Green Hills (or similar)

Distance covered: 12mi (20km)

Activity hours: 3.5

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8
Hill country ride to Ella

In the morning, we cycle through hill country towards Ella, stopping for tea in Bandarawela, a trading centre where exotic fruits from the east coast are traded for hill country vegetables. On arrival into Ella, we stop for a late lunch before check-in. We have the chance to watch the sunset from the Ella Gap viewpoint. On a clear day, you can see the coast shimmering in the distance.

In the evening, we visit a local family to have a truly Sri Lankan dinner.

Accommodation: Hotel Country Comfort (or similar)

Distance covered: 41mi (66km)

Descent: 2,953ft (900m); Activity hours: 4

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9
Descent, stopping at the rock-cut Buddha statues at Buduruvagela; to Tissamaharama

Descending 3,281ft (1,000m), we leave the breath-taking scenery of the Uva Province for the gentle rolling hills of the dry zone, taking a break en route at the impressive Rawana Ella waterfall before stopping at the rock-cut Buddha statues at Buduruvagala. The 49ft (15m) rock carving of Buddha is flanked by small figures depicting his helpers and a very rare image of Maitreya, the future Buddha, which dates from the 10th century. The tranquillity here is enhanced by the lotus-covered lake; we relax on the banks and eat fresh fruit before riding to lunch. Here we can retreat from the heat of the day, before the final 19mi (30km) to Tissamaharama, the capital of the old Ruhuna kingdom.

Accommodation: Chaarya Resort & Spa (or similar)

Distance covered: 63mi (102km)

Descent: 2,953ft (900m); Activity hours: 8

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10
Morning ride to Kataragama Temple; afternoon drive to Yala National Park for safari

In the morning, we cycle to Kataragama temple, which lies 10mi (16km) northeast of Tissa. People of all faiths come to seek favour with the god Skanda, who is reputed to restore people’s health. The colourful and noisy pooja (ritual) is always busy, with thousands of pilgrims during the festival season from July to August. Tissa is close to Yala National Park, the best park in Sri Lanka to see leopards. After lunch, we have a safari in the park, where we may see elephants, deer, wild boars, sloth bears, Asian jackals, lots of birdlife and, if we’re very lucky, a leopard. We return to Tissa for the night (please note, the sanctuary may be closed for four to six weeks from September to October allowing the park authorities to check the animals. We therefore go to a nearby alternative, usually Lunugamvehera or Udawalawe National Park).

Accommodation: Chaarya Resort & Spa (or similar)

Distance covered: 20mi (32km)

Activity hours: 3.5

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 11
Ride through Bundala National Park and by the lagoon for spectacular birdlife; continue riding on the coast to Hambantota; transfer to Ahangama

Leaving early to avoid the heat of the dry zone, we ride along the boundary of Bundala Bird Sanctuary. We hit the main road for the final 19mi (30km) to Hambantota, a series of sandy bays fanning out from this typical coastal town. We then take a transfer from Hambantota to Ahangama by coach. For the next two nights we stay in Ahangama.

Accommodation: Insight Resort (or similar)

Distance covered: 23mi (37km)

Activity hours: 3

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 12
Free day on beach; optional ride to Koggala

Today you can pick your own adventure. Either relax at the hotel or join a late morning ride along rural roads to Wandurugama village where you will stop at a colonial manor house for High Tea and authentic Sri Lankan snack. Today it is known as Thalpe Walawwa Heritage Villa, occupied by a leading family within the local ancient Sri Lanka society. Quite a few prominent personalities were born and spent their childhood in beautiful residence. After the visit you will return to the hotel via Koggala Lake (Approximately 3-hour ride).

This afternoon is free to explore the beach or swim and laze by the pool. In the late afternoon, we can view the stilt fishermen climb their poles to catch a few bites for supper. From November to April, we can also go whale watching off Dondra head, near Mirissa, which is one of the best places in the world to see blue and sperm whales. Huge pods of dolphins often accompany the boats.

Accommodation: Insight Resort (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 13
Transfer to Colombo via Galle

Leaving early after breakfast, we stop to visit Galle. The fort here was built in 1663 after the Dutch took the island from the Portuguese. The old ramparts and small back streets bring alive some of the history of the fight for colonial domination of this prized island. You’re free to find your own lunch, meeting back at the bus mid-afternoon for the two-hour drive to Colombo. The rest of the day is free to relax by the pool or shop along the main street. For the last evening meal, we can choose from one of the many restaurants in Colombo.

Accommodation: Hotel Cinnamon Red (or similar)

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 14
End Colombo

Our Sri Lankan cycling adventure comes to an end this morning after breakfast. Unless, of course, you’ve booked onto our ultra-relaxing post-trip extension to the Maldives with your sales representative.

Meals included: Breakfast

Extend Your Trip

Maldives Extension

If you are keen to end your trip on a relaxed note, we can arrange a visit to the Maldives for you. You can choose to add as many extra nights to your trip as you wish; your time on the island will be at leisure for you to do as you wish. If you choose to take advantage of this opportunity, we can arrange flights for you from Colombo to Malé (approximately 1 hour), and book the hotel and speedboat transfer (approximately 20 minutes) to the island.

There are two locations available to choose from for your Maldives break:

Villa Nautica Paradise Island Resort

Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

Paradise Island is a beautiful coral island, covered with tropical vegetation and palm trees, surrounded by a wide sandy beach and an azure lagoon. The accommodation has a swimming pool, restaurant, bar, room service and all rooms are air conditioned. There is also access to scuba diving and snorkelling or the chance to swim in the wonderful, calm waters. Either way, it is a veritable paradise and a memorable end to the trip.

Embudu Village

Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

Relish white beaches, lush reefs, and tranquil moments beneath a greenlit canopy at Embudu Village. Available accommodation options include the Superior Beach Bungalows, nestled in lush greenery just moments from the beach, and the Water Villas right on the island’s edge with ocean-view four-poster beds and roomy balconies featuring inviting ocean views.

Please be advised, all accommodation booked at the Maldives resorts are based on full-board with all-inclusive upgrades available for a supplement. Please ask your sales representative for more details. Prices listed are starting prices.

Insight Resort Beach Extension

How about slowing the pace down and extending your stay a night or two? Before finishing your trip in Colombo, take a detour and stay south of Galle in the fishing village of Ahangama. There you can relax on the beautiful beach at the hotel or wander through the village watching the local people go about their daily lives. A perfect wind-down before it’s time to fly home.

Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

Please ask your sales representative for more details. Prices listed are starting prices.

Post-trip Extensions

Maldives Extension

If you are keen to end your trip on a relaxed note, we can arrange a visit to the Maldives for you. You can choose to add as many extra nights to your trip as you wish; your time on the island will be at leisure for you to do as you wish. If you choose to take advantage of this opportunity, we can arrange flights for you from Colombo to Malé (approximately 1 hour), and book the hotel and speedboat transfer (approximately 20 minutes) to the island.

There are two locations available to choose from for your Maldives break:

Villa Nautica Paradise Island Resort

Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

Paradise Island is a beautiful coral island, covered with tropical vegetation and palm trees, surrounded by a wide sandy beach and an azure lagoon. The accommodation has a swimming pool, restaurant, bar, room service and all rooms are air conditioned. There is also access to scuba diving and snorkelling or the chance to swim in the wonderful, calm waters. Either way, it is a veritable paradise and a memorable end to the trip.

Embudu Village

Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

Relish white beaches, lush reefs, and tranquil moments beneath a greenlit canopy at Embudu Village. Available accommodation options include the Superior Beach Bungalows, nestled in lush greenery just moments from the beach, and the Water Villas right on the island’s edge with ocean-view four-poster beds and roomy balconies featuring inviting ocean views.

Please be advised, all accommodation booked at the Maldives resorts are based on full-board with all-inclusive upgrades available for a supplement. Please ask your sales representative for more details. Prices listed are starting prices.

Ascents, descents and distances: All ascents, descents and distances listed in the daily itinerary have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders, in many cases with satellite-based mapping software. However, different GPS measuring devices can give differing results, particularly on winding paths or in mountainous terrain. Measurements stated throughout these Trips Notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter. Timings stated will vary depending on the pace of your group.

Accommodation

Hotels and local guesthouses

Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

Accommodation on this cycling trip is a mixture of hotels (some with pools) and local guesthouses. The guesthouses are modest but in good locations along the route and provide a real taste of the country. The normal accommodations used on this trip are on the day-to-day itinerary; however, below are a few of the notable places we stay.

Sigiriya: Hotel Sigiriya (nights 1-2)

Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

This four-star property surrounded by nature is the perfect place to begin our adventure. Ease into the trip with a dip in the freshwater pool (which has near-unbeatable views of Sigiriya Rock) and relax in your spacious room with garden views.

Nuwara Eliya: Araliya Green Hills (nights 6-7)

Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

Araliya Green Hills, nestled in the misty mountains and lush tea hills of Nuwara Eliya, combines colonial charm with modern comforts. It has a range of cozy accommodations, delightful restaurants, and stylish bars, all while showcasing genuine Sri Lankan hospitality. Located near the island’s highest point, it’s the perfect base to explore the captivating highlands and attractions.

Ella: Hotel Country Comfort (night 8)

Experience Sri Lankan hospitality with a stay at this traditional 20-room guesthouse, where the rooms are simple, and the welcome is warm. It has a 40-seat restaurant serving a mix of cuisines (specialising in traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry) and a bar with local and international drinks.

Yala: Chaarya Resort & Spa (nights 9-10)

Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

Retreat into the wilderness at this four-star property close to Yala National Park, which has spacious chalet-style bedrooms with private balconies. Cool off in the pool, an oasis between the trees, or visit the spa for a welcome massage. The resort also has an al fresco and indoor restaurant serving international and local cuisines.

Ahangama: Insight Resort (nights 11-12)

Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

Enjoy a spot on the beach, where it is possible to swim in the sea most of the time. Spacious rooms offer sea views and the quiet fishing village is an easy walk for those wishing to explore a local community.

Worth knowing

  • Wifi is available at most accommodations, either in the rooms or the communal areas.
  • Paying the single supplement may not mean you receive a double or twin room for sole use. The room you are allocated may differ from hotel to hotel, and on some nights a smaller room for ‘one person’ may be allocated.
  • The Nuwara Eliya hotel (Mirage Kings Cottage, nights 6-7) was selected for its character and pretty grounds, but the level of service is not always at the standard of the other hotels on this itinerary.

Single supplement from £ 410

Food & Drink

All breakfasts and 10 lunches included.

We suggest allowing about 7,000 rupees (US$23) per day for lunch and dinner.
You can eat out very cheaply in Sri Lanka and your leader will provide recommendations for where to eat locally however, the options may not always be suited to larger groups. Some locations you stay may have limited local restaurant choice, in which case meals will be at the hotel. Hotel meals are generally buffets; the majority offer an à la carte menu, but service can be slow. Where suitable, your tour leader will be happy to arrange a shuttle transfer into the local town or, if you prefer to be more independent, take a tuk tuk or taxi. Your leader can help recommend some good places to eat.

Sri Lankan cuisine is a fascinating reflection of the island’s heritage; there is a unique fusion of fresh local produce with spices brought to the island over the centuries by Malays, Arabs, Indians as well as the Dutch, Portuguese and English. Despite (or perhaps because of) these influences, Sri Lankan cuisine is often referred to as simply rice and curry. This is the staple dish in most restaurants and is usually a serving of rice accompanied by assorted meat and vegetable curries as well as various pickles, sambols (condiments), and a handful of tiny poppadum – all using the contrasting flavours of coconut, chilli, curry leaves, cinnamon and garlic.

Vegetarians are well catered for but please inform us before departure of any special dietary requests. Please note, the availability of certain products is minimal or non-existent in Sri Lanka. For example, wheat- or dairy-free options outside of hotels are limited. Please be prepared for this and you may need to bring these from home. Spicier food can be avoided easily and lots of the hotels will serve Western options alongside traditional food.

Mineral water is provided by our local operator in large containers throughout the trip so please bring a bottle with you to refill. Please note, restaurant service can be quite slow.

Transport

Transfers to and from the airport are in a private bus. All your luggage and personal belongings will be carried by the support vehicles. The support vehicle will follow the riders for the majority of the rides allowing you to cycle as much or as little as you like. There may be some minor exceptions where road conditions are not passable by vehicle however, these occasions are brief and your leader will advise in advance.

Please Note: For the optional train ride on day 6 of the itinerary, your leader will endeavour to secure train tickets from Kandy to to Nuwara Eliya at your request. Due to the Sri Lankan rail booking system, we are unable to purchase and reserve tickets in advance (for any class carriage), they must be purchased on the day of travel from the railway station ticket office. Seats also cannot be reserved in advance. During peak holiday seasons/busy periods, if the train is sold out or overcrowded, you will have the alternative option to ride in the support vehicle following the cycle group.

 

Weather & Seasonality

With a location near the equator, Sri Lanka has a hot and humid climate. At the higher elevations, however, it is cool; the humidity is lower in the northern and central parts of the country. The average annual temperature is 32C (90F) in the lowlands and 21C (70F) in the higher mountainous regions, though it can get chilly in the hill country at night.

Rainfall is determined by seasonal and regional variations. The monsoon season in the southwest lasts from May to November, when the rainfall can be exceptionally heavy. In the northern dry zone, most of the annual precipitation, roughly 1,016mm (about 40in) occurs during the monsoon season, which begins in the first week of November, though we do not really visit this region and so are largely unaffected by this monsoon. The hills and lowlands of the southwest normally have some rainfall throughout the year, with the heaviest occurring in May and June and again in October and November.

Joining Instructions

Key information

Start hotel: Hotel Sigiriya, Hotel Road, Sigiriya
Phone: +94 664 930 500
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Colombo Airport (CMB)

Getting to the start hotel

The start hotel is approximately a 2hr 45min drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:

Take an Exodus transfer

Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times.

Make your own way

It’s possible to reach the start hotel by public transport, but the journey is complicated. We therefore recommend joining the group transfer where possible. If not, you can speak to your sales representative about booking a private transfer. Please note, the cost of our private transfer is likely to be higher than a local taxi as our service is subject to local government tax; however, we only allocate vetted drivers.

On arrival at the hotel, please make the reception staff aware you are part of an Exodus group and they will have more details on meeting with your leader and group.

If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.

Catching your return flight

There’s a group departure transfer to the airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.

Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.

Location start: Sigiriya
Location end: Colombo

What To Take

Essential Equipment

  • Backpack
  • Lightweight waterproof jacket
  • Strong sunscreen
  • Refillable water bottle/water bladder (also known as a hydration pack/CamelBak, which are useful for rehydrating on the go)
  • Insect repellent
  • Torch (flashlight)
  • Light cotton trousers
  • Lightweight long-sleeved shirt
  • Fleece or sweater

Cycling clothing
For all cycling trips we recommend:

  • Padded cycling shorts: For destinations with more modest cultures, we also recommend loose ‘over-shorts’ for riding or rest stops
  • Eyewear: Either sunglasses or eye protection with clear lenses to protect the eyes while riding
  • Cycling gloves: Especially for riding off-road or on rugged surfaces
  • Cycling shoes: Cycling is more efficient with stiff-soled shoes. We don’t recommend open-toed shoes or sandals
  • Small close-fitting backpack or bum bag (fanny pack): To keep spare clothing or essential items to hand during the ride

For temple visits, clothing for both men and women should cover shoulders and be on or below the knee. We recommend travelling with a Sarong/shawl for easy coverage.

There will be plenty of opportunities to get laundry done locally at a very affordable price so it’s fine to pack light.

Water included

Plastic bottles are a big issue in many countries where recycling isn’t yet widely available; they often end up in landfill or get burned. Both processes are harmful to the environment and we would like to reduce our impact here. For your trip, we provide an alternative to single-use plastic bottles to reduce the plastic used. This means that safe drinking water will be available throughout; all you need to do is bring a bottle to refill along the way. Please add this to your packing list.

Optional Equipment

  • Pocket binoculars
  • Electrolytes

Equipment Hire

Included standard bike
The standard bikes for this trip are Proformance ACL-02 bikes. We will take your height at the time of booking to reserve equipment. If you have a preferred bike size, please request when booking.

E-bike upgrade
Electric bikes are available on this trip; prices from £230/US$320/379 Canadian dollars. Speak to your sales representative for more information.

Bringing your own bike
If you’d prefer to bring your own bike, please advise us at the time of booking and you will receive a discount on the price of the trip. However, you will be responsible for any extra baggage charges; assembling and disassembling your bike; and bringing along spare parts and any tools specific to it. You should also ensure you have adequate insurance to cover loss, damage or theft.

Cycle Accessories

Bringing equipment from home
You’re welcome to bring your own equipment, such as SPD pedals or clipless pedals, your own saddle (excluding the seat post), or gel saddle cover for the hire bikes. Your leader will help you fit these when bikes are distributed.

Helmets
Helmets are mandatory for everyone on a guided Exodus cycling trip. You must bring your own as, following best safety practice, they are not available for hire.

Practical Information

Passport

Remember to check the expiration date of your passport if travelling internationally. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date of your scheduled return.

Visa

Sri Lanka

Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally need a visa (ETA) to enter Sri Lanka. Travellers from most countries can obtain a 30-day ETA (US$50) at www.eta.gov.lk. We strongly recommend that you do this prior to travel to avoid any complications and delays on arrival. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

Local customs and laws: You should be aware of local laws and customs in Sri Lanka (see: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/sri-lanka/local-laws-and-customs). The mistreatment of Buddhist images and artefacts is an offence; please note, people have been refused entry to Sri Lanka because of visible tattoos of Buddha.

Vaccinations and Health

Sri Lanka

There are no required vaccinations. However, recommended vaccinations include tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, tuberculosis and typhoid. You will also need a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you’re arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission or transiting for more than 12 hours through a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.

The risk of malaria is slight but you may wish to consult your doctor or travel clinic for further advice. Additionally, dengue fever, a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes, is a known risk in places visited. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available; the best form of prevention is to take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

For detailed health and vaccination advice, visit:

Local Time

Sri Lanka's time zone: Asia/Colombo (UTC +05:30)

Electricity

Sri Lanka's electricity: Plug types D (three round pins) and G (three rectangular pins) – 230V, 50Hz. The electricity supply is not 100 percent reliable but is usually only off for short periods.

Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

Money

Sri Lanka's currency: All foreign passport holders can make payments for purchases in the local currency, Sri Lankan rupees (LKR). This is applicable to hotels, restaurants, shops and for any other services. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard and American Express) are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and most established shops. If you wish to exchange any cash upon arrival into Sri Lankan rupees, it is advisable to exchange British pounds, euros or US dollars upon arrival at Colombo Airport where authorised bank money exchanges are open 24-hours a day. Hotels can change money as well, but the rates will probably not be favourable. Your Tour Leader will be happy to direct you to the appropriate exchange services if you wish to change money during the trip. You are no longer required to produce your receipt of foreign exchange when making payments in Sri Lankan rupees, as was previously the case. However, we suggest you retain receipts of foreign exchange which will help should you wish to change back any unused rupees at the time of departure.

ATM Availability

You will find ATM machines in many of the main towns in Sri Lanka with Visa, MasterCard and American Express widely accepted. There is often a small 3-4% fee on top of your withdrawals so bear that in mind.
It’s worth informing your bank before departure that you are travelling to Sri Lanka and carry the relevant telephone number with you in case they put a block on your card.

Extra Expenses & Spending Money

For small purchases, particularly at local shops and markets, cash is generally preferred and easier for transactions than credit cards.

It is recommended that you allow at least 2,200 Sri Lankan rupees (US$6) for personal expenditures such as stamps, postcards and soft drinks. Some sites may charge a small fee for camera use. Shopping opportunities in Sri Lanka are endless and we suggest you take money for souvenirs, even if you are generally not a keen shopper, we have found most people succumb to the wide variety of handicrafts on offer.

All entrance fees and activities described in the itinerary are included with an exception for the optional activities mentioned on some days.

Optional excursions

Whale watching (November to April)

  • The whale-watching trip by private boat should cost about 32,500 rupees per person depending on the number of participants. Minimum 6 passengers required.

Below is the breakdown.

  • Cost of Boat- 110000 to 140000 (Depending on the availability, Supply, and demand on the given day)
  • Entry ticket – 8000 rupees
  • Tuk Tuks – Rs. 1500 per person. (We cannot take the bus into the Harbor.)
  • Tips – 500 to 1000 rupees per person.
    • Approximate cost for 6 pax – 80 pounds per person
    • Approximate cost for 10 pax – 65 pounds per person
    • Approximate cost for 14 pax – 55 pounds per person

Please note, if you choose to enjoy this excursion on your free day, we strongly advise booking a private charter boat through your leader in advance as the boats are always subject to availability. The more members of the group who wish to join the charter the more cost-effective it will be. We do not recommend larger, commercial boats; they may be cheaper, but they do not always respect the welfare of the animals or operate in an environmentally responsible way. We have also had reports of overcrowding on the boats. Please ask your leader for further details on how to book a private charter.

Tipping

Tipping is part of the culture in Sri Lanka. However, it can often be an awkward affair, especially when you’re in an unfamiliar country. As such, your tour Leader will offer to arrange and look after a tipping kitty, which will be used to tip hotel staff, local guides, and other support staff used on the trip (optional excursions are not included in the group kitty).

Your Leader will suggest how much to contribute, but it is usually about 20,000 rupees (approximately US$67) total per person. At any time during the trip, your Leader will happily show you an account of how the kitty is being distributed.

Tips for the Leader and transfer and cycle crew are not included in the kitty and are at your own discretion. If you wish to show your appreciation, our recommendation is as follows:

For the driver, driver’s assistant, assistant cycling guide, and cycle support vehicle driver around 1,300 – 1,600 rupees (US$4 – US$5) per person per day.

For your Leader around 1,100 – 1,600 rupees (US$4-US$5) per person per day.

Where possible, please try to tip in the local currency.

Sustainability and Impact

At Exodus, we thrive on travel, and we firmly believe our adventures should help destinations thrive too.

As a certified B Corp, we aim to take a ‘nature positive’ approach across our adventures, including carbon and waste reduction, animal welfare and support for rewilding and conservation. We also seek to contribute to local communities, providing economic opportunity and empowerment.

Important Information

Water safety

This trip includes time by a lake, river or sea, where there may be opportunities to swim. You should always seek local advice before deciding whether to swim. Open-water or wild swim spots should be treated with extreme caution. Information on how to keep yourself safe while swimming is shown here.

Important Information

Your safe participation 

When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary. 

Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity. 

By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred. 

How to Book

  1. Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
  2. Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
  3. Complete your booking and payment

When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.

After booking

You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.

Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.

Trip Note validity

These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.

The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.

Licensing

Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.