This unique and exciting cycle tour crosses the island from north to south, end to end, and takes in many of the country’s finest historical sites, whilst traversing many of the diverse landscapes which make Sri Lanka so special.After a rural introductory ride from Negombo to Kathupotha on Day 2, we transfer north to Jaffna and on the next day ride a loop around the Jaffna Peninsula and surrounding islands where there is a unique mixture of colonial charm and vibrant Tamil culture. The ride ends at the site of a massive baobab tree, brought to the island by Arabian traders many centuries ago, from where we transfer twenty minutes to a nature-based resort. Combining 9 days of road cycling on surprisingly good roads, with fantastic cultural and natural insights and delicious local cuisine, this is one of the best ways to experience Sri Lanka. The first 5 cycling days of this tropical tour are on primarily flat terrain where we average around 90 kilometres per day. We then split the day's ride to the ‘hill capital’ of Kandy, where we have a rest day. This makes a tremendous difference, as does the constant supply of cold drinks and fresh fruit. This trip is on paved roads that are in good condition, though there maybe occasional short rough sections. The bus is always close at hand for those who need to take a break. Bike hire is available locally on this holiday. Our local agent can provide good quality carbon-framed Sunpeed Invincible bikes. These bikes have Shimano 105 components, compact (50/34) cranksets and disc brakes. Spare parts (tubes, tyre, chains etc.) are included in the price of the bike rental and will be available in the support vehicle along with a tool kit and track pump. The guide will also carry some spares and tools for fixing punctures etc. Each bike comes with a single bottle cage and a Spice Roads water bottle that is yours to keep.
D1
Cycle from Negombo to Katupotha, then transfer to the northern tip of the island at Jaffna.
D1
Peninsula and islands loop ride from Jaffna.
D3
Starting our southward journey across the island, we cycle from Jaffna to Mannar.
D3
Cycle inland to Anuradhapura. Afternoon sightseeing in this former Sinhalese capital.
D2
Ride from Anuradhapura to Sigiriya. Afternoon hike to the top of the Lion Rock.
D1
Cycle to the Dambulla Cave Temple and onwards via the Keppitigala Pass. Short transfer to Kandy.
D2
A great day of cycling, through the heart of 'tea country' to Hatton.
D3
Continue our journey southwards from Hatton to the Udawalawe National Park.
D2
Cycle out to the island's southern tip at Dondra Lighthouse. Overnight at Mirissa.
Hotel