Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

Name: Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka
Brand: Exodus
Rating: 4.8 (207 reviews)

Offer :

Save 20% on all 2026 Trips. Book by 27 October 2025 and quote LEADTHEWAY26 at time of booking online or over the phone. Learn more.

14 Days Excluding Flights From

15 Days from

£ 2499

4.8/5 from

Cycling

Activity Level

Moderate & Challenging

Comfort Level

Superior

Ways to Travel :

Guided Group

Activity :

Cycling

Group Size :

4 - 16

Ages :

16+

Trip Code :

MIR

Carbon Footprint :

25kg CO2e per person per day

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?

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

Key Information

Accommodation: 8 Superior nights (hotels), 5 Classic nights (hotels)
10 days cycling (including one optional ride) with full vehicle support
Group normally 4 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 16

Countries visited: Sri Lanka

What's Included

All breakfasts and 10 lunches
All accommodation
All transport and listed activities
Tour leader throughout
Group arrival and departure transfers available
Local bike hire

What's Not Included

Travel insurance
Single accommodation (available on request)
Visas or vaccinations
E-bike hire (available for an additional cost)

10 Days of Cycling

Pace:

Moderate: 8mph-10mph (13kph-16kph)

Terrain:

Low altitude; 95 percent paved, 5 percent unsurfaced roads
Routes mostly follow quiet backroads, with frequent climbs

Day 2

48 km / 29.8 miles

Day 3

54 km / 33.6 miles

Day 4

76 km / 47.2 miles

Day 6

80 km / 49.7 miles

Day 7

20 km / 12.4 miles

Day 8

62 km / 38.5 miles

Day 9

102 km / 63.4 miles

Day 10

41 km / 25.5 miles

Day 11

36 km / 22.4 miles

Sustainability and Impact

As a certified B Corp, we’re on a mission to improve our social and environmental impact across all our adventures.

We do this through our innovative Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan.

This ‘nature positive’ approach is designed to help nature and communities thrive in harmony through practical solutions, such as reducing carbon and waste on our trips, supporting conservation projects through the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation, and rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller.

You’ll also find Thriving Nature, Thriving People moments across our trips. These experiences are often a highlight of your adventure, while also benefiting the natural world or local communities.

On this trip, we:

Join a family in Ella to share authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, learning firsthand from our hosts about the local customs and culture
Visit a roadside tea shop that was renovated with a donation from Ruwan Balasuriya with the prize money he earned when entering the Exodus Leaders’ Hall of Fame

TRIP

MIR - Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

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Trip Notes

Click on the button below for detailed Trip Notes containing all the particulars about this trip, including kit lists and practical information.

Note: these can vary by departure; you can check out the specific Trip Notes for your chosen adventure on the dates & prices page.

View Trip Notes

For flights call us on 0203 733 5948 or enquire when booking online

Regional flights available

Competitive flight prices

Specialist Flight Support

ATOL protected

Itinerary

Sigiriya Colombo

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.

Around 6pm say ayubowan to your tour leader and fellow travellers at the hotel, where we gather as a group for the first time to get to know each other and learn more about the adventures ahead.

Your tour leader then ensures a big Sri Lankan welcome by arranging an optional group dinner.

Want to explore further? Secure pre-tour hotel nights through your sales representative.

Accommodation: Hotel Sigiriya (or similar)

Meals included: Lunch

Rise early to climb the fifth-century rock fortress of Sigiriya before the crowds arrive. The palace ruins on the summit and rockface frescoes are surpassed only by the magnificent aerial view over the jungle. Please note, this is not recommended for those who suffer from vertigo.

Return to the hotel for a late breakfast and then 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 Kandalama reservoir, which is rich in bird life. Arriving in 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.

Accommodation: Hotel Sigiriya (or similar)

Distance covered: 30mi (48km)

Activity hours: 4

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

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. After around 15mi (24km), we take a 15-minute bus transfer to avoid a stretch where wild elephants roam, before getting back on the bike to complete our ride.

The second stretch of the ride winds through small villages and lush rice paddy fields. We pass a couple of tranquil reservoirs and an irrigation canal running parallel to the road – look out for mongoose, kingfisher, storks and birds of prey amongst the rural scenery.

Later, we tour the ruined city of Polonnaruwa, which dates from the 10^th to 13th century. You have the option in the evening to join your tour leader at a family-owned restaurant to experience local food and culture.

Accommodation: Hotel Giritale (or similar)

Distance covered: 34mi (54km)

Activity hours: 5

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

We follow a 6mi (10km) 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.

During today’s ride, we also visit a special roadside tea shop near Polonnaruwa. After the stall fell into disrepair, our Sri Lankan tour leader Ruwan Balasuriya donated the prize money he won entering the Exodus Leaders’ Hall of Fame to help the owner family renovate the stall, making it a welcome stop for all passers by.

Accommodation: Hotel Topaz (or similar)

Distance covered: 47mi (76km)

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

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

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

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.

A short drive from the hotel will take us to the beginning of the ride, enabling us to bypass Kandy’s busiest roads. 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 Red (or similar)

Distance covered: 50mi (80km)

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

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

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 take a short bus transfer into Nuwara Eliya town and then 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 Red (or similar)

Distance covered: 12mi (20km)

Activity hours: 3hr 30min

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

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. After a refreshing tea break, we take backroads through hundreds of acres of tea plantations and cycle along the edge of the Central Highlands to reach Ella. 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 join a local family to share authentic Sri Lankan cuisine and learn firsthand from our hosts about their customs and culture.

Accommodation: Hotel Country Comfort (or similar)

Distance covered: 39mi (62km)

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

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

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

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 explore the lesser-visited Block 5 area, which has denser vegetation than the open plains but the same chances of seeing the elusive leopards and sloth bears, all without having to compete with multiple other game vehicles. After, 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: 25mi (41km)

Activity hours: 3hr 30min

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

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: 22mi (36km)

Activity hours: 3

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Today you can pick your own adventure. Either relax at the hotel or join a late-morning ride (15.5mi/25km) along rural roads to Wandurugama village, where you 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 this beautiful residence. After the visit, return to the hotel via Koggala Lake (approximately a three-hour ride).

This afternoon is free to explore the beach, laze by the pool or join an optional boat ride through mangrove swamps to a cinnamon plantation and monkey island on Koggala Lake. 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

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

You’ve explored Sri Lanka from the saddle, summited mighty Sigiriya and been on safari in Yala National Park, but today the adventure comes to end.

Alternatively, if you’re craving a little R&R, speak to your sales representative about a post-trip adventure in the Maldives or time relaxing on the golden sands of Sri Lanka.

Meals included: Breakfast

Post-trip Extensions

Sri Lanka Beach Extension

Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka
Why not slow things down and end your Sri Lankan adventure with a few nights by the beach?

Choose to stay south of Galle at the laid-back fishing village of Ahangama and unwind at the Insight Resort, our trusted partner. Here, you can relax by the coast or take a leisurely stroll through the village, watching daily life unfold. For a more luxurious escape, opt for a secluded beachfront hotel with spa facilities near the iconic stilt fishermen. Alternatively, consider spending your final nights in Negombo. With its coastal charm and convenient access to Colombo’s airport, it’s the perfect place to wind down before your journey home.

Speak to your sales representative who can handle all of the arrangements for you.

Maldives Beach Extension

Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

Did you know the Maldives is just a one-hour flight from Sri Lanka?

Beautiful islands covered with tropical vegetation and palm trees, surrounded by wide sandy beaches and azure waters. Spend your days diving, snorkelling or swimming in the warm, calm ocean. For an unforgettable stay pick one of the iconic Overwater Villas, where panoramic sea views and serene sunsets come as standard. The Maldives makes for an indulgent extension to any Sri Lankan holiday, with many resorts offering full-board packages and all-inclusive upgrades.

Speak to your sales representative who can handle all of the arrangements for you.

Essential Info

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 13 – 14 April (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

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 around 6pm this evening.
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

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:

UK: The Travel Health Pro website
US: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website
Canada: ⁠The Canadian government’s travel health page

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.

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.

Weather

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.

TRIP

MIR - Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

Departure Date

Number Of Passengers*

Message*

To enquire about an existing booking click here

First Name *

Last Name *

Email *

Phone *

Keep me up to date with news and offers from Exodus by email.

Thank you for contacting Exodus Travels.

Find out more about how we use your data

Request a Brochure

Trip Notes

Click on the button below for detailed Trip Notes containing all the particulars about this trip, including kit lists and practical information.

Note: these can vary by departure; you can check out the specific Trip Notes for your chosen adventure on the dates & prices page.

View Trip Notes

Hotels and local guesthouses

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.

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 (Araliya Red, nights 6-7) is a larger property than we would usually choose for our groups but has been selected for the central location, walking distance from the main town and swimming pool (which few hotels have in Nuwara Eliya), offering additional leisure options and ability to eat in local restaurants.

TRIP

MIR - Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

Departure Date

Number Of Passengers*

Message*

To enquire about an existing booking click here

First Name *

Last Name *

Email *

Phone *

Keep me up to date with news and offers from Exodus by email.

Thank you for contacting Exodus Travels.

Find out more about how we use your data

Request a Brochure

Trip Notes

Click on the button below for detailed Trip Notes containing all the particulars about this trip, including kit lists and practical information.

Note: these can vary by departure; you can check out the specific Trip Notes for your chosen adventure on the dates & prices page.

View Trip Notes

Think of bringing a bandanna to cover your mouth when cycling in high traffic conditions as the back roads are probably only about 40% of the trip. Think of taking the train from Kandy on the challenging cycling day as it is a really worthwhile and interesting experience. Be prepared to eat spicy foods every day and at every meal.

Reply from Exodus

Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We’re so pleased to hear that you found the trip to be a well-balanced blend of cycling, cultural exploration, and free time, and that the comfort of the hotels and the warmth of the local people left a lasting impression.

We also appreciate your kind words about our support team—they work hard to ensure every aspect of the trip runs smoothly, and it’s great to know their efforts made a difference.

That said, we’re sorry to hear that the cycling conditions didn’t consistently meet expectations. While we aim to include scenic and quieter routes wherever possible, some stretches of busier roads are required to cover as much of the country as possible within a reasonable timeframe. Nevertheless, your feedback about safety and the “back roads” description is important, and we’ll be reviewing the itinerary to ensure it better reflects the actual cycling environment.

Thank you again for your thoughtful review. We’re glad you enjoyed the trip overall and truly value your insights as we continue to refine and improve our adventures.

Keryn Vella

Reviewed December 2024

Beautiful country - highly recommend this trip.

A very diverse bunch of people came together to experience the classic ‘cultural triangle’ and much more – but in a more in-depth way. Apart from the lovely people we encountered on our travels, the wildlife was one of my favourite aspects. My absolute favourite moment was when a monkey dropped from a tree onto our ‘snacks’ table and made off with one of the spicy biscuits (good choice!) – chaos/hilarity ensued!

Some of the riding days were tough – I hadn’t got as much training in as I had planned – but the back-up crew were always there to help! A few of the rides (particularly the big one) are on busy roads so would recommend a ‘commuter mask’ if your lungs are sensitive. The fumes from the buses can get a bit much. Although the people travelling on them, hanging out the doors and windows shouting encouragement, almost made up for it!

Most Inspirational Moment

I'd have to agree with other reviews that it was the kids. So happy and engaging - so many high fives - which were sorely needed on the big climbs!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Ruwan was fabulous - extremely knowledgeable and adaptable to the preferences of the group. Lovely, lovely person - as were the rest of the hardworking team!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Do the 'optional ride' on the last cycling day. We stopped to see a couple of local industries (making rope from coconut husks; cinnamon) cycled past some beautiful scenery on quiet back roads, and stopped for 'tea' (or coffee for some of us) in a historic home turned guest house - perfect way to end the cycling leg of our trip. We travelled up to Kappalady after the tour (3.5 hours in a taxi) for some kite surfing for a few days. We stayed at MoJo Stay - newly opened (we were their first paying guests!) and a little touch of paradise! Properly off the beaten track in a little village where we were treated to a coconut drink by a local farmer and bought some bracelets off the neighbours kids (very enterprising!). If staying in Negombo before/after your flight - highly recommend Swanee Grand - another absolutely stunning historic home turned hotel!

Douglas Williamson

Reviewed December 2024

Bucket List Experience

This trip is utterly amazing on every level and most importantly, it provides an immersive experience in the very best Sri Lanka has to offer.

Most Inspirational Moment

The thrill of climbing and descending through the tea plantation highlands was extraordinary.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Suresh was THE most professional, personable and attentive guide we have ever had on a dozen previous adventures.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you want to be exposed to everything this country has to offer then - book it and go.

Tim Laughton-Scott

Reviewed August 2024

Once in a lifetime experience with the best guides and people!

I found Sri Lanka to be an incredibly stunning country. We all felt we got to see so much of it whilst getting an authentic feel to the local way of life through seeing it on a saddle. The itinerary is very well designed, as well as all the cycling we got to climb Lions Rock in Sigiriya, visit spice gardens and ancient ruins in the lowlands, walk through botanical gardens in Kandy, see some of the most beautiful views in Ella and got to relax on the beach, swimming in the Indian Ocean after 9 days of cycling. Being a relatively inexperienced cyclist, I did find some of the cycles challenging yet incredibly rewarding. With the cycling, culture, wildlife, food, lovely accommodation and group you’ll share the trip with, this was an incredible way to experience the best of Sri Lanka!

Most Inspirational Moment

Hard to choose just one but have to say ascending the final 20km to Nuwara Eliya! This was the final leg of the day and was a long ascent up the mountain. We were made very aware this would be a challenge and although you are surrounded my spectacular mountain scenery, you'll mostly be looking at the road in front of you that you're trying to summit! The guide and his support team were a fantastic help and if you couldn't make it to the top, the option was there to jump in the van if needed. Reaching the top though felt like an incredible achievement, there were lots of high fives between the group and everybody felt very proud of what they'd just managed to complete. It really brought us together as a group!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Suresh as a leader was outstanding. He's been running this trip for 16 years and you can really tell! Working with his support team (Bus driver, bus assistant, support van driver, cycle assistant) you really feel like you're in good hands. They were driving ahead of us, ready with snacks and cut fresh fruit for our cycle breaks. They would also be stopping traffic whenever we came up to a T junction to make sure we crossed the road safely. One guest got a puncture and the support driver and cycle assistant changed her tyre and had her back on the road within two minutes! Suresh himself was totally in control of the whole trip and had a great sense of humour. Every meal we had he would say, 'we now go to the buffet, we make maximum damage!' With Suresh and his team, they made the difficult look easy, making the trip run like clockwork and we felt as if we didn't have a minute wasted.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I would get some time in the saddle before you go and practice ascending steeper hills where possible. The cycle support team on the trip do a great job but some of the ascents and distances can be challenging, especially if its hot. E-bikes are available if you want to make the cycling easier, and we did have the support bus there at all times that you can jump into if it becomes too challenging.

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Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

4.8/5 from

14 Days Excluding Flights From

15 Days from

£ 2499

Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka

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

10 Days of Cycling

Sustainability and Impact

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Our Big Gift to You!

Itinerary

Sigiriya Colombo

Post-trip Extensions

Sri Lanka Beach Extension

Maldives Beach Extension

Essential Info

Is this trip for you?

Joining Instructions

Key information

Getting to the start hotel

Catching your return flight

Vaccinations and Health

Sri Lanka

Passport

Visa

Sri Lanka

Food & Drink

Weather

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Hotels and local guesthouses

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Trip Experts

Suresh Bandara

Ruwan Balasooriya

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Reviews

Excellent but title is probably a misnomer

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Great scenery, brilliant guide and support staff

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Warm Weather and Warm Welcomes

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Cycling Back roads of Sri lanka

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Fantastic trip

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Great way to see Sri Lanka

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

A bit of everything.

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Reply from Exodus

Beautiful country - highly recommend this trip.

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Bucket List Experience

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Once in a lifetime experience with the best guides and people!

Most Inspirational Moment

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

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Cycle the Back Roads of Sri Lanka