Sri Lanka by Bike

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Sri Lanka by Bike

Scheduled Tour

Price from

2890 USD

Duration

9 Days | 8 Nights

Level

Tour Code

GHSB21

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Sri Lanka by Bike - Bike, Hike & Safari Sri Lanka’s Natural Wonder

Discover Sri Lanka by bike over 9 days, cycle touring from the capital, Colombo, through lush highlands and rainforests to the coast. Along the way, you'll enjoy South Asia's best cycling, nature-packed hikes and safaris through national parks, luxurious hotels, delicious cuisine and the rich history and culture of Sri Lanka's welcoming people.

Quality Bikes
Cannondale CX3 or Trek E-bike

Your Guide
Friendly Sri Lanka team

Group Size
4 to 14

Accommodation
Modern hotels, rainforest eco lodge

Activities
Ride/ Walk / Safari/ Cook

Minimum Age
+14

Overview

Take a 9-day guided adventure in paradise. Not only does this trip to Sri Lanka include some of the most beautiful bike touring in South Asia, but it also includes great hikes through national parks, a jeep safari with the chance to see leopards, luxurious lodgings, mouthwatering food and a cultural experience like no other.

Sri Lanka, a small island with a big heart, is well known for its highland tea plantations that we will spend some days riding through. We also take in the city of Kandy with its sacred Buddha tooth relic and pleasant climate. Pedal by Yala National Park where we often see animal and birdlife and spend some time on the southern coast with its crashing surf, relaxed pace of life and historic Portuguese forts.

This is the perfect bike tour to see some of the best of Sri Lanka in just over a week. You'll get a taste of the highlights & hidden treasures and be blown away by the diversity this small island nation boasts.

Pedal-assist E-bikes are an available option on this tour for $245.

272-412 Km riding. On this tour, most days will provide you with a choice between a short ride and a long ride. The short option doesn't mean you'll be stuck in a van following the riders, it means that we have carefully coordinated everything so that you will arrive at a start point in a car, ready to ride with the long ride group as they come through. Both groups will have a guide with them and you will have a GPS for navigation.

The terrain is a mix of sealed and unsealed roads on secondary roads and quiet country lanes. There are a few sustained climbs (although not too steep) at times and some thrilling descents. There is always a support vehicle on hand to give you a lift if you need a break from the riding.

Highlights

Explore Horton Plains National Park and take a walk to World’s End for dramatic mountain views.

Take a tea tour to learn about the interesting process, then make tasty Sri Lankan curry in a cooking class.

A jeep safari through Yala National Park reveals elephants, leopards, wild boar, buffalo, and monkeys.

Ride amazing, almost non-traffic roads, through stunning vistas of hills covered in tea plantations

Day to Day

Expand All

Day 1Kandy - Take a Train Ride, then a Bike Ride

Riding: 26km

Meal: LD

We start today with an early pickup from your Colombo Hotel before we drive to a small village station to board the train that takes us up into the hills towards Kandy. The scenic journey takes 3-4 hours before we arrive around lunchtime, to meet our support team and our bikes. To warm up our legs, we’ll cycle from the train station into the center of town, pedaling down small roads to escape the traffic. Our ride takes us along a river and its local villages. In the evening, there is time to visit the Temple of the Tooth, where the sacred Buddha tooth relic is placed with supporting stories illustrated in a prayer hall. Tonight we’ll enjoy our first dinner together in Kandy.

Day 2Ride & Train to Nuwara Eliya, Colonial-era Hill Station

Riding: 26.5 or 43km

Meal: BLD

Today we pedal back roads and find ourselves climbing soon after leaving Kandy. As we go, the population thins out and the tea creeps in. As we weave our way through tea plantations, keep an eye open for roadside shops selling delicacies such as fresh dates and dried corn crackers. We then enjoy some descents today and a wide variety of road surfaces, always with minimal traffic.

We finish our ride down at the Gampola railway station where we board the train for the higher elevations. The train ride is stunning, and the carriage is quite comfortable. We alight at Nana Oya and then travel by car the short distance to Nuwara Eliya. You will need your warm clothes up here, but the hotel does have an open fireplace and a great meal for dinner.

Note that the short ride group today will be able to linger over breakfast a little longer, before taking a short van transfer to their start point at the top of the climb. From there on, the two groups will follow the same route.

Day 3Hike Horton Plains to Worlds End, Cycle & Tea Factory tour

Riding: 39km

Meal: BLD

A very early start is needed today for the transfer by vehicle up to Horton Plains National Park, and we’ll enjoy some light snacks to get us started. From there, we will walk through the grassy highlands to World's End Lookout where we take in the astonishing views over the valley from the clifftop. Keep your eyes peeled while you walk, as we may be lucky enough to glimpse deer and monkeys.

From the hike back to town is about 1 hour in the van, then there is plenty of downtime until just after lunch when we have a loop ride that takes us first on a fun descent, then on a sustained, but not terribly long climb up through tea plantations. Here we will stop to visit an operational Tea Factory where those little buds picked by the colorfully dressed ladies are turned into a salable product.

We reach a ridgeline and ride through Ambewela, an area known for its dairy farms. We stop off in this quaint little village and then ride the ridge back to Nuwara Eliya through a lovely, lush green landscape.

Day 4Ella - Ride and take a Cooking Class

Riding: 29 or 63km

Meal: BLD

For the long ride group today, we have the pleasure of a door to door ride with no vehicle transfer time. Leaving the hotel at quite a civilized hour, we start on the same descent as the day before, but this time we don't have to interrupt it. We get to lose about 1000m in elevation over about 20km, so by the time you need to start pedaling again, you might have forgotten how!

The short ride group will meet us some way into the ride where the terrain undulates before descending into the lovely little town of Ella.

The scenery through today is beautiful at every turn. Tea as far as the eye can see and lots of friendly, somewhat surprised villagers, not so accustomed to seeing foreigners riding bikes through their village. We stop for lunch in Banderawella which is a little different to some other towns we have been through in that there is a sizeable Muslim population. Buddhists are the majority in Sri Lanka, but here is a diverse mix of ethnicities and religions in the country, owing to its fascinating past and significant geographic location.

In the late afternoon, we will try our hand at cooking some local dishes and we will enjoy these for our dinner.

Ella is a cute town with incredible views! It has become a popular backpacker stop and the vibe and feel are consistent with that. It's our most modest night of accommodation, but that will still be a clean and comfortable room with an ensuite bathroom.

Day 5Yala - Ride & Transfer to the Beach

Riding: 49.5 or 65km

Meal: BLD

Today we leave the hills but before we do, they have a treat for us in the form of one of the most scenic rides of the trip so far. We start out along a ridge, with deep valleys either side and tea plantation workers often hard at work, picking tea or tending to the plants. The first 15km has us climbing to a point where the short ride group will join. Then it is a thrilling, enjoyable, continual downhill ride to the flatlands. When we run out of gravity assisted riding, we stop for lunch in a small village and immediately you will feel that we have moved between regions.

People on the flatlands and plains move a little more slowly and with good reason, it's pretty warm down here. We are now on the southeast corner of the island and after we load into the van we will drive between two National Parks, the famous Yala on one side and the lesser-known Lunugamvehera on the other. We often encounter Elephants on this road who levy a toll on us, paid in bananas.

We reach the coast and our stunningly located resort around the mid-afternoon, so there is time to rest a little and then enjoy a walk on the beach and a sundowner before dinner.

Day 6Safari of Yala National park seeking Leopards & Elephants

Meal: BLD

Today is safari day. We will take our local specialists' recommendations on whether it should be a morning or afternoon one. That advice will depend on seasonal animal movements and the weather patterns of the day. Either way, the safari will last around 2.5 to 3 hours and there is usually a good chance to see a range of animals. Of course, the Leopard is the star of the show and we do often see them. It helps that our Naturalist knows the park better than most, so he will guide our driver to avoid other jeeps and will preference sitting in wait rather than driving around constantly trying to find animals.

Asides from the safari, the day is yours to rest, relax and take stock of the adventure so far. Three meals will be served at the hotel with plenty of flexibility.

Day 7Udawalawe - Ride & optional Elephant Safari

Riding: 46 or 75km

Meal: BLD

After all that hilly territory that we have ridden through, a day of relatively flat riding might be quite a novelty. The long ride group will make a head start in one van to pass through the nearby town of Tissamaharama and reach their start point. The short ride group will have a little more time to enjoy the resort before moving on.

The ride today passes through a dry landscape, punctuated by small villages with bright golden coconuts piled up for sale. The King Coconut as it is known is a daily consumption item and especially good for bike riders who might have had enough of the electrolyte drinks.

As we reach the town of Udawalawe, we will start to see more and more irrigated land where farmers will be growing a variety of crops including rice. This irrigation is made possible by the large "Tank" as it is known, a reservoir that was built by the ancients and one of many across the country. This antique infrastructure has helped to ensure Sri Lanka's prosperity in so many ways and the lakes create nice places for people to picnic and support the huge range of birdlife in the country.

Udawalawe National Park is located just nearby our hotel. A safari is not organized as part of the tour, but your Tour Leader can easily arrange one for you if you would like to visit the park. This park is known mostly for the Elephants of which there are a great many.

Day 8Galle - Ride to Historic Galle

Riding: 56 or 102km

Meal: BLD

After a long journey, the long ride distance might be less appealing, but today's ride allows you to make up your mind partway. We first transfer as a complete group to a high point. Then we enjoy a fun descent, just so that we remember what that feels like. There is a little climbing, but only to set us up for another little descent. We start out in tea country again and end up right by the coast in Galle.

The route today features lots of variety and the short option concludes at lunch. The short ride group will then move on to Galle while any hardy riders wanting to ride the big one can continue on.

Approaching Galle you will get a feel for this, Sri Lanka's second-largest city. It is a historical location and also a location made famous by a game that is very popular in Sri Lanka, Cricket.

Day 9Guided Walk of Galle Fort - Conclusion of Tour

Meal: BL

The story of Galle Fort is fascinating and dates back even further than the 16th century when the Portuguese built the first ramparts. The Dutch arrived later and heavily fortified the settlement and then eventually along came the British. Through these many changes of rulers, the ethnic makeup of the city was born through its significant role as a trading port. Today the families who live in the fort have in most cases, lived there for many generations. This is a story that deserves two hours and we will tell it as we walk through the atmospheric streets and along the ramparts with the ocean crashing against the rocks below.

Lunch in the fort marks the end of our tour. The van will be ready to take you to Colombo City or Colombo Airport. If you are planning to remain in the area for the beaches of Hikkaduwa or Unawatuna, then we will have transport arranged for you.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Quality, well-maintained Cannondale CX3 mountain bikes in a full range of sizes are included in your tour, fitted with full hydraulic brakes, hybrid tyres for touring. Removable handlebar bags for your personal possessions and comfortable saddles are also provided, with a women's specific version available.

Simple to use and a pleasure to ride, the Trek Conduit+ pedal-assist bike expands touring possibilities for all riders, and anything that enables people to explore more of the world by bike is a great thing in our books! Find out more about our E-Bikes here.

Always striving to deliver a premium tour experience, Grasshopper Adventures are the first (and currently only) to offer pedal-assist e-bikes as a tour option in Southeast Asia. An upgrade can be purchased for this trip, availability is limited and on a first-in basis.

Sri Lanka offers a great variety in choice of accommodation, and we make full use of this. From a grand old colonial property in Nuwara Eliya, to an eco-lodge in the rainforest, and a modern hotel in Kandy, we have all options covered.

Group of family with locals at a home in Sri Lana

An experienced English speaking, local leader will host you on this trip who is well spoken, very knowledgeable and charming. Our leaders are often cited as being the main highlight of the tour. We use local guides who have a passion for their country and are always well informed on topics ranging from history, politics, cuisine and importantly local customs and cultures. Our leaders will take pride in introducing you to every aspect of their country while keeping you safe and comfortable at all times. Your leader will be supported by an assistant guide/mechanic who is tasked with keeping the bikes in tip-top shape and often will lead the riding while the leader will ride among the group.

An air-conditioned backup support vehicle is always available for tired riders and to carry your luggage.

Sri Lankan food is centered around curries and has an emphasis on vegetables. This is not to say that there is no variety though. Given Sri Lanka's International integration over the centuries, there is a good variety of food available. While lunches tend to be quite similar due to the remote areas traversed, the evening meals often provide for a great deal of choice. As we near the coast, some amazing fresh seafood and fish become available and some of the properties in which we stay, pride themselves in their meal offerings. We are experienced in catering for all dietary requirements and invite you to discuss this with us in advance if you are concerned in any way. Included meals are listed in the day by day itinerary, and drinking water is always included with meals. Any soft or alcoholic drinks are not included and will be at your own expense.

Energy bars, local snacks and fresh fruit are provided to keep your energy levels up for the riding, and clean water and electrolyte drinks are always available to keep you well hydrated.

Group of cyclists and guides in Sri Lanka in front of souvenirs

A beautiful souvenir Grasshopper cycling jersey is yours to wear and take home. We also provide a Grasshopper drink bottle as an extra memento.

This tour is guaranteed for a minimum of just 4 travelers. And we limit the group size to only 14 travelers so that you get all the attention you want in an intimate group.

On this tour we provide Wahoo ELEMNT bike computers for additional navigational support. These are the latest in user-friendly navigation tech from Wahoo Fitness. With Wahoo devices you will be able to track your progress and monitor your route. Beyond their basic setup, the geek-cyclists will find Wahoo ELEMNTs to be excellent data mining devices allowing to measure almost any aspect of the ride.

There is no surcharge for single travelers - we will match you with another same-sex single traveler. If you want a single room there is an optional upgrade that you can book.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Jetwing St. Andrews

This country mansion combines all of the charms of Colonial times with all of the friendly hospitality you’ve come to love in Sri Lanka. Nestled in the hills of tea country, this luxurious home near the city of Nuwara Eliya provides a unique experience.

Tamarind Hill

Less than a mile away from the historic Galle Fort, this luxury hotel embodies all of the elegance of colonial Sri Lanka. Well manicured gardens give way to a private pool, and rooms are tastefully decorated with colonial-era furniture. You are sure to enjoy your time in this classic accommodation!

Jetwing Yala Hotel

Locates on the outskirts of Yala National Park, Jetwing Yala is home to Sri Lankan hospitality in the deep south which brings a sense of luxury and refinement to the harmonious disorder of resident grasslands.

GUEST REVIEWS

The routes were varied, through really interesting countryside with awesome scenery in the high country, as well as low. We felt we really got a feel of how both rural and urban Sri Lanka lives. A lot of thought and planning has obviously gone into preparing the routes, but also choosing the hotels, which were a welcome haven of luxury after each day.

-Christoph

Sri Lanka is an amazing country. The people, colors, wildlife, animals... it's just unbelievable.
Our tour was truly exceptional thanks in big part to our wonderful guide Dodan.
He's inspiring, humble and very motivated.

It was our first time with grasshopper, but definitely not the last.

Looking forward to exploring other countries.

-Irwin

Another awesome adventure with Grasshopper. Accommodation and food excellent and sights incredible. Truly enjoyed Sri Lanka in all its beauty and diversity. Cycling is the way to discover a country and its people!

-Sue

Dates & Price

Dates Availability Price * Deposit payment: $900 USD
* Single room option: $1450 USD

15 - 23 Aug 2020 Seats available

Adult 2890USD

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26 Sep - 04 Oct 2020 Seats available

Adult 2890USD

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05 - 13 Dec 2020 Seats available

Adult 2990USD

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24 Jan - 01 Feb 2021 Seats available

Adult 2890USD

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27 Feb - 07 Mar 2021 Seats available

Adult 2890USD

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20 - 28 Mar 2021 Seats available

Adult 2890USD

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29 May - 06 Jun 2021 Seats available

Adult 2890USD

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25 Jul - 02 Aug 2021 Seats available

Adult 2890USD

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14 - 22 Aug 2021 Seats available

Adult 2890USD

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25 Sep - 03 Oct 2021 Seats available

Adult 2890USD

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22 - 30 Dec 2021 Seats available

Adult 2990USD

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31 Dec 2021 - 08 Jan 2022 Seats available

Adult 2990USD

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Any tour can be made private! Request quote GO PRIVATE

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WHAT MAKES US STAND OUT

GRASSHOPPER STYLE

Our Sri Lanka by Bike tour is the best way to take in the natural beauty and rich culture of this amazing island. This carefully crafted itinerary brings you to many of Sri Lanka’s highlights and its well-protected national parks, and provides plenty of connection with the authentic Sri Lankan life that surrounds you. Along the way, you will stay in great accommodation, eat tasty local meals, and learn about the wildlife, history and the culture of Sri Lanka from your expert local guide. This will be an unforgettable discovery of the Pearl of India.

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Why Us? The Grasshopper Adventures Experience

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Home > Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka by Bike

Price from

Duration

Level

Tour Code

Sri Lanka by Bike - Bike, Hike & Safari Sri Lanka’s Natural Wonder

Overview

Highlights

Day to Day

Day 1Kandy - Take a Train Ride, then a Bike Ride

Day 2Ride & Train to Nuwara Eliya, Colonial-era Hill Station

Day 3Hike Horton Plains to Worlds End, Cycle & Tea Factory tour

Day 4Ella - Ride and take a Cooking Class

Day 5Yala - Ride & Transfer to the Beach

Day 6Safari of Yala National park seeking Leopards & Elephants

Day 7Udawalawe - Ride & optional Elephant Safari

Day 8Galle - Ride to Historic Galle

Day 9Guided Walk of Galle Fort - Conclusion of Tour

WHAT’S INCLUDED

ACCOMMODATIONS

Jetwing St. Andrews

Tamarind Hill

Jetwing Yala Hotel

PRIVACY POLICY

GUEST REVIEWS

Dates & Price

WHAT MAKES US STAND OUT

GRASSHOPPER STYLE

Why Us? The Grasshopper Adventures Experience

Similar Tours

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Not yet a member?

Home > Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka by Bike

Price from

Duration

Level

Tour Code

Sri Lanka by Bike - Bike, Hike & Safari Sri Lanka’s Natural Wonder

Overview

Highlights

Day to Day

Day 1Kandy - Take a Train Ride, then a Bike Ride

Day 2Ride & Train to Nuwara Eliya, Colonial-era Hill Station

Day 3Hike Horton Plains to Worlds End, Cycle & Tea Factory tour

Day 4Ella - Ride and take a Cooking Class

Day 5Yala - Ride & Transfer to the Beach

Day 6Safari of Yala National park seeking Leopards & Elephants

Day 7Udawalawe - Ride & optional Elephant Safari

Day 8Galle - Ride to Historic Galle

Day 9Guided Walk of Galle Fort - Conclusion of Tour

Dates & Price

WHAT MAKES US STAND OUT

GRASSHOPPER STYLE

Why Us? The Grasshopper Adventures Experience

Similar Tours

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