SrilankA_Colombo (1)

Sri Lanka UNESCO Bike Tour

The Sri Lanka UNESCO Bike Tour is an immersive cycling experience that takes you through the island's rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. The tour covers key UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, the rock fortress of Sigiriya, and the sacred city of Kandy. Bike through lush countryside, vibrant villages, and scenic coastal routes, gaining a deep appreciation for Sri Lanka's history, architecture, and natural beauty. The tour concludes at the beautiful coastal town of Mirissa with a ride to Galle on the last day, offering a perfect ending with its pristine beaches and relaxed atmosphere.

Start

Negombo | 17:00hrs

Finish

Negombo | 18:00hrs

Lodging

casual

Level

easy to moderate

Avg. dist. cycled

55km or 34mi

Cycling Days

6

Fly-In

Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)

Fly-Out

Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)

Group size

Min. 2, Max. 14

Highlights

Highlight Image

Historic Sites

Explore ancient cities and their impressive ruins, including the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress and the Golden Cave Temple in Dambulla.

Itinerary

Brief Itinerary

DayPlacecasual Inns or similarMealsDistanceActivity
DAY 1NegomboSuriya Resort & SpaD
DAY 2anuradhapuraRajarata HotelB,L,D40 km / 25 micycling
DAY 3anuradhapuraRajarata hotelB,L,D45 km / 27 micycling
DAY 4polonnaruwaHotel Sudu AraliyaB,L,D70 km / 43 micycling
DAY 5dambullaSigiriana ResortB,L,D50 km / 31 micycling
DAY 6kandyHotel ThilankaB,L,D65 km / 40 micycling
DAY 7MirissaMandara ResortB,L50km / 30mi
DAY 8Colombo Airport via GalleB30 km / 18 micycling

Detailed Itinerary

Itinerary Image

Day 1: Negombo

On the day of the tour, our guide will meet you at your hotel in the evening at 17:00hrs. We'll use this time to do a bike fit to ensure that your cycling experience is as comfortable as possible. After that, we'll have a relaxing dinner together and go over the briefing for the tour.

Negombo is a vibrant coastal town with a mix of Dutch and Portuguese architecture and a bustling fish market. If you have time, we recommend exploring the town's canals, beaches, and historic sites. You could also take a boat ride to the nearby Muthurajawela Marsh, which is home to a variety of bird species and other wildlife.

Meals: D
Accommodation: Suriya Resort & Spa

Day 2: anuradhapura

In the morning, we'll pick you up from your hotel in Negombo and transport you to the starting point of our cycling adventure. We'll commence our ride from Mawanella, navigating away from busy roads and passing through picturesque coconut and rubber plantations, tranquil paddy fields, and local villages.

After covering 40 km along the coastal route, we'll switch to a vehicle for the journey to Anuradhapura. This city, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, served as the epicenter of Theravada Buddhism for centuries. It stands as one of the world's oldest continually inhabited cities and is among Sri Lanka's eight distinguished World Heritage Sites.

Meals: B,L,D
Cycling Distance: 40 km / 25 mi
Accommodation: Rajarata Hotel
Itinerary Image

Day 3: anuradhapura

After breakfast, set off on a scenic cycling route that winds through lush paddy fields and idyllic villages waiting to be discovered. Marvel at the intricate architecture of iconic landmarks such as the Abayagiri Dagoba, the world's largest Buddhist monument, standing as a testament to Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage.

Take a break midday to indulge in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, where you can savor traditional flavors amidst a relaxed atmosphere. As the day draws to a close, enjoy a leisurely evening, reflecting on the day's adventures and immersing yourself in the serene ambiance of Anuradhapura's historic surroundings.

Meals: B,L,D
Cycling Distance: 45 km / 27 mi
Accommodation: Rajarata hotel
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Day 4: polonnaruwa

Enjoy a scenic cycling route from Anuradhapura to Ritigala this morning, pedaling through lush paddies, serene man-made water tanks, and dense jungle patches. Savor a delightful countryside lunch along the way before visiting the enchanting Ritigala Monastery, an ancient site nearly 2,000 years old, nestled on a picturesque mountain. After exploring Ritigala, choose to either continue your journey to Polonnaruwa by vehicle or extend your adventure by biking there. In the evening, discover the rich history of Polonnaruwa with a captivating city tour of its fascinating historical sites.

Meals: B,L,D
Cycling Distance: 70 km / 43 mi
Accommodation: Hotel Sudu Araliya
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Day 5: dambulla

After breakfast, begin your cycling journey through the picturesque countryside, traversing a blend of tarmac and rustic red dirt roads that wind past orchards, verdant paddy fields, and swaying elephant grass.

In the evening, venture to the awe-inspiring Dambulla Golden Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the ancient caves adorned with magnificent Buddha statues and intricate frescoes, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich cultural and religious history.

Meals: B,L,D
Cycling Distance: 50 km / 31 mi
Accommodation: Sigiriana Resort
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Day 6: kandy

Indulge in a hearty breakfast and prepare for an exhilarating ride to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sigiriya. Pedal through lush jungles, traditional chena farms, and quaint rural villages, soaking in the vibrant landscapes along the way.

Climb Sigiriya Rock, a marvel of ancient urban planning and one of the best-preserved examples of its kind. After a satisfying lunch at a local restaurant, continue your journey towards Kandy, enjoying the scenic route and the changing vistas of Sri Lanka's countryside.

On arrival at Kandy, visit the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic, known for its stunning architecture and serene ambiance.

Meals: B,L,D
Cycling Distance: 65 km / 40 mi
Accommodation: Hotel Thilanka
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Day 7: Mirissa

We will start our day at 8:00 AM with a shuttle transfer to Peradeniya. From there, we will set off on a picturesque ride through lush tea estates and charming local villages. After covering approximately 50 km, we’ll arrive in Kithulgala, where a delicious lunch at a local restaurant awaits. Following lunch, we will continue our journey with a scenic drive to Mirissa, in approximately 5-6 hours. There, you can unwind and enjoy a relaxing evening on the beautiful beachfront. Please be aware that this will be a full and extended day of travel.

Meals: B,L
Cycling Distance: 50km / 30mi
Accommodation: Mandara Resort
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Day 8: Colombo Airport via Galle

Today, we experience a beautiful coastal and interior trail as we ride toward Galle. The stunning views of the ocean and the gentle sea breeze keep us company throughout the ride. As we make our way toward Galle, we will pass through charming coastal villages and verdant countryside landscapes.

Post-lunch, explore the historic Galle Fort on foot. The fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the best-preserved colonial-era fortifications in Asia. As we walk through the narrow streets and alleys, we will discover an abundance of Dutch and Portuguese architectural gems, museums, and cathedrals. The picturesque coastline also provides a perfect opportunity to relax on the sunny beaches and soak in the beautiful surroundings.

Later, we shuttle from Galle to the Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport, aiming to reach by 6 PM. For added convenience and to account for any unforeseen delays, we highly recommend booking an international flight that departs at 10 PM or later on the same day. Alternatively, you may choose to spend a night in Negombo (our shuttle will drop you to your hotel) and depart at any time the following day. Please note that the group transfer is included if you depart today; however, if you choose to leave the next day, you will need to make your own transfer arrangements.

For those looking to extend their journey, consider spending a few relaxing days in Galle before heading to Colombo International Airport for your onward travel.

Meals: B
Cycling Distance: 30 km / 18 mi
Accommodation:

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Map

Dates and Prices

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Essential Info

Inclusions

LODGING

All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).

trip leader

Expert Trip Leader(s) who look after your every need and add meaning to your vacation.

bike

Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.

shuttle

A Van support follows the group of riders and carries all belongings.

meals

Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.

refreshments

Refreshments and mineral water while cycling.

entrance

Entrance fees to most of the monuments and temples.

Exclusions

Airport pickup and drop

We recommend to book direclty from airport or hotel.

Beverages

Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.

Gratuity

Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.

Arrival & Departure Details

Arrival

Arrive at the Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport in Negombo. You can book a cab to your hotel from any of the taxi counters located inside the Colombo Bandaranaike international airport itself.

Negombo is 10 kms (6.5 mi) from the airport. Despite the airport being called Colombo airport, Negombo happens to be closer to the airport than Colombo itself. Negombo is also known for its long sandy beaches, and is the perfect place to start our Sri Lanka cycling adventure.

You can exchange currency at the airport itself.

Departure

On the final day, we shuttle from Galle to the Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport, aiming to reach by 6 PM. For added convenience and to account for any unforeseen delays, we highly recommend booking an international flight that departs at 10 PM or later on the same day. Alternatively, you may choose to spend a night in Negombo (our shuttle will drop you to your hotel) and depart at any time the following day. Please note that the group transfer is included if you depart on the final day; however, if you choose to leave the next day, you will need to make your own transfer arrangements.

For those looking to extend their journey, consider spending a few relaxing days in Galle before heading to Colombo International Airport for your onward travel.

Weather

With a tropical climate, Sri Lanka has two cycles of monsoon which bring rain to the west and south-west coastal lines from May to September, and between October and February, it rains in northern regions and east coastline. Although the rains are generally short, with occasional heavy downpours.

Leaving out the monsoon season, the remaining months receive plenty of sunshine and are mostly dry. Temperatures remain fairly consistent year-round, with coastal regions averaging from 25 to 32°C and the mountain regions from 15 to 20°C. Sri Lanka is humid as well with relative humidity ranging between 60% & 90%.

Predominantly, Sri Lanka is almost a year-round cycling destination and our bike tours run around the year.

January

Good

February

Good

March

Best

April

Best

May

Mixed

June

Mixed

July

Mixed

August

Mixed

September

Good

October

Good

November

Best

December

Mixed

Best

Good

Mixed

Offseason

What to Pack

Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.

Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear

  • Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
  • Padded cycling shorts.
  • Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
  • Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
  • Synthetic cycling socks.
  • Sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
  • Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
  • Rain jacket or windbreaker.
  • Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).

Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.

Clothing

  • Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
  • Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
  • Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
  • Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
  • Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
  • Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.

Other Necessities

  • Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • Plug socket adaptor.
  • Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.

Pro Tips

  • Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
  • Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
  • Pack light to leave room for shopping.

Luggage

Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.

Visa Information

Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:

Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

Travel Insurance

It is a mandatory requirement to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.

We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.

Frequently Asked Questions

The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.

Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.

Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)

Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.

Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.

Yes, your trip leader will carry bottled water or RO water in a camper in the support van for guests' use.

Yes, please communicate your dietary preferences to your trip leader and they'll ensure that the food you eat is spiced as per your requirements.

The road surface is mostly good. 90% of the cycling on this bike tour happens on paved roads.

We've designed this itinerary such that most of the cycling happens on quieter countryside roads far from busy traffic. The shuttle transfers on this tour have been strategically planned to bypass busy vehicular traffic.

We are not medical advisors, and as such are not qualified to dispense medical advice. However, we recommend consulting the resources below for advice on vaccines and medications:

  1. CDC portal for travelers from the US
  2. NHS' Fit For Travel portal for travelers from the UK
  3. Smart Traveller portal or travelers from Australia.

In addition to the above, you may also refer to the travel advice issued from time to time by your government.

  1. US residents may refer to the State Department's travel and vaccination advice for Sri Lanka here.
  2. UK residents may refer to the FCDO's travel advice for Sri Lanka here.
  3. Residents of Australia may refer to Australian government's travel advice including medical advice for Sri Lanka here.

While your tour price covers most common expenses, a few meals are not included in the itinerary. This allows you the opportunity to dine independently and explore the local cuisine at your own pace. Your guides will be happy to provide recommendations if desired. As a general guideline, you can budget approximately US $100–200 per person for additional expenditures over the course of the trip.

Tips are not included in your tour price.

As a general rule, you may tip US$ 15-25 per person per day.

This figure is for the entire crew including the trip leader, the driver, and other support staff.

However, you are not obligated to tip, and you can always tip less or more than the above amount depending on the level of service you received on tour.

It is usually the norm to tip the tour guide, who then distributes the amount among the entire crew. However, you can also tip each individual member of the crew if you so desire.

In case you want to tip the staff at a hotel such as porters, you may pay them US $2-3 per day.

The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.

On the final day, we arrange a group transfer to the airport. For added convenience and to account for any unforeseen delays, we highly recommend spending your last night in Negombo before departing on your international flight.

Yes, you may wear riding shorts while riding your bike. When not cycling, it would be advisable to wear comfortable full-length pants. We recommend keeping a pair of comfortable pants handy in you support van.

When visiting temples and monuments, visitors should wear full-length, loose-fitting pants. Holy places of certain religions may also require covering your head. Your guide will inform of the dress etiquette required for visiting specific religious places.

You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.

For answers to broader questions, please visit our Comprehensive FAQs section.

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