top of page

SRI LANKA COAST TO COAST CYCLING EXPEDITION

Cost: EURO 2425

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival at Colombo airport and transfer to Negombo

On arrival, the guests will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel (30mins). They can relax, swim in the pool/sea or even walk around town. We will have a bike fitting in the early evening and a short ride to get used to the bikes. Briefing before dinner. Accommodation: Goldi Sands

Day 2

Negombo – Yapahuwa – 65 Km

On all cycling days it is recommended to start early to avoid the midday heat. Breakfast at 0700 with the ideal time to start cycling around 0730/0800. Today we need to take a 1.5hr transfer out of busy Negombo town to the cycling start point. Bikes will be transferred to the start point and setup before the guest arrival. Cycle north east into the heartland of Sri Lanka to the town of Yapahuwa. Yapahuwa was for a short time the capital of medieval Sri Lanka (1272). The route is through village backroads and small mud-trails. We will be passing through semi-rural settings with small houses and shops along the way. This area is also famous for its coconut plantations and paddy fields. The total cycling distance is 65 kms. The terrain is flat. Surface is a combination of tarred roads, mud-tracks and gravel paths. We will reach the hotel by lunch. Lunch is at the hotel. Guests can then relax and go for a swim. This hotel is also famous for its Ayurvedic treatment. Guests could choose to get a massage. We will meet again as a group at 1700 and visit the nearby Yapahuwa Rock Fortress and climb it (30mins) for some beautiful views of the surroundings and sunset. ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Yapahuwa Paradise – It is a basic 3-star hotel and the only one in the area. Clean and comfortable with very warm service.

Day 3

Yapahuwa - Sigiriya- 53 km

After an early breakfast start cycling east to the heart of the cultural triangle. The destination is Dambulla. Dambulla cave temple also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla is a World Heritage Site. It is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. There are more than 80 documented caves in the surrounding area. Major attractions are spread over five caves, which contain statues and paintings. These paintings and statues are related to Gautama Buddha and his life. Prehistoric Sri Lankans would have lived in these cave complexes before the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka as there are burial sites with human skeletons about 2700 years old in this area. The scenery is slightly similar to the previous day however it’s more rural as we move away from the more crowded coast. The vegetation starts to change as well. We will cycle up to the Dambulla where the group will have lunch and can change into clothes appropriate for visiting the Cave Temple. The cycling distance to the lunch point is 53 kms. After lunch, the group will be transferred (15mins) by van to the Dambulla Cave Complex. They will then be taken on a guided walk with a local archaeological guide. The tour will take about 2 hours. After the tour they will take a 30min transfer to the hotel which is located right opposite Sigiriya Rock. ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Sigiriya – This is an iconic hotel located right opposite the Sigiriya Rock. Accommodation is in individual chalets on a large estate Meal Plan: B D

Day 4

Sigiriys – Polonnaruwa - 72 km

After an early breakfast, group will be transferred (5mins) to the Sigiriya Rock. Here they will go on a guided walk with a local archaeological guide. The tour takes about 2 hours. Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress. According to Sri Lankan history, this site was selected by King Kashyapa (477 – 495 CE) for his new capital. He built his palace on the top of this rock and decorated its sides with colorful frescoes. On a small plateau about halfway up the side of this rock he built a gateway in the form of an enormous lion. The name of this place is derived from this structure — Sīnhāgiri, the Lion Rock. Sigiriya today is a UNESCO listed World Heritage Site. It is one of the best-preserved examples of ancient urban planning The bikes will be setup at the exit point of the tour. From here the group will cycle to Polonnaruwa. The route is through the Angamadilla National Park. The total cycling distance is 72 kms. The terrain is flat and mainly mud-tracks. A packed lunch will be had en-route. The group should reach the hotel in Polonnaruwa by 1400/1500. There is also the option of going for a safari at the Minneriya National Park. The best place to see elephants. Supplement cost – USD 45 per person. ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Sudu Araliya – This is a comfortable 4-star hotel located on the banks of a reservoir Meal Plan: B D

Day 5

Polonnaruwa – Batticaloa – 75 Km

After an early breakfast group will start cycling south east. Today is one of the most stunning days of cycling. Head from Polonnaruwa down to Maha Oya through the forest reserve. En-route we pass the massive Maha Oya reservoir. We will be cycling in elephant country so need to keep an eye out for elephants on either side of the road. We will cycle up to the small remote town of Maha Oya where the group will have lunch. The total cycling distance is 75 kms. Post lunch the group will be transferred by van to the coastal town of Batticaloa (1hr). Batticaloa is a major city in the Eastern Province, Sri Lanka, and its former capital. It is the administrative capital of the Batticaloa District. The city is the seat of the Eastern University of Sri Lanka and is a major commercial city. While not on the normal tourist circuit, Batticaloa gives you an insight on how the Sri Lankan minorities live. ACCOMMODATION: Hotel East Lagoon – This is a quirky and comfortable 3-star hotel with warm service and good food. It is also situated right on the lagoon Meal Plan: B L D

Day 6

Batticaloa – Batticaloa - 15 km

Today the group goes on a local guided tour by bike in Batticaloa. On the tour the group will visit a local market. They will then visit a local house where they will be taught how to cook some traditional Sri Lankan curries. They will also have lunch at the house. Then they will ride along the lagoon and visit some fishermen who will take them out onto the lagoon for a traditional fishing class. The tour is from 0830 to 1730. ACCOMMODATION: Hotel East Lagoon – This is a quirky and comfortable 3-star hotel with warm service and good food. It is also situated right on the lagoon Meal Plan: B D

Day 7

Batticaloa-  Arugam Bay - 72 km

We start with an early breakfast. Then take a 45 min transfer out of the busy town to avoid the main roads. We then begin cycling along the coast down to Arugam Bay. Arugam Bay is most famously known as a surfing and beach destination. However, the wildlife and nature inland are pristine. At the south east end of Sri Lanka, it borders the Yala National Park. Due to the 30 year long civil war it remained untouched from the rest of the country. Our cycling starts in the small bustling town of Kalmunai. We will take the concrete beach road along the sea. Now vibrant and busy you can still see some of the leftover scars from the 2004 Tsunami. After about 10 kms we will head inland onto the main coastal road heading south. The scenery is stunning vast fields of paddy and small urban centers. The closer we get to Arugam Bay the route gets more remote. The total cycling distance is 72 kms. Terrain is completely flat. We finally end at the stunning Jetwing Surf hotel. This hotel is probably the highlight of the trip. We will have lunch here. Afternoon is at leisure to go for a swim in the sea. ACCOMMODATION: Jetwing Surf – This is a boutique beach resort. Individual chalets right on the beach. Excellent food Meal Plan: B L D

Day 8

Arugambay– Arugambay – Sightseeing Day

Today, we add an extra wheel to our mode of transport and go on a tuk tuk safari (or open top jeeps) in the jungles of Arugam Bay with a local naturalist. We first head to the Panama Tank, go crocodile spotting and a long walk into the jungle. On our way back, we can stop at Elephant Rock and enjoy the sunset before heading back to the hotel for another delicious meal. ACCOMMODATION: Jetwing Surf – This is a boutique beach resort. Individual chalets right on the beach. Excellent food Meal Plan: B D

Day 9

Arugambay – Kataragama – 82 Km

Another beautiful day of cycling, we start through the Lahugalla sanctuary before reaching the small hills of Monaragala. We are on complete back roads only used by the locals. Peacocks and mongoose run across the road frequently. We come out at the town of Buttala from where we transfer the remaining distance to Kataragama. Kataragama is a pilgrimage town sacred to Hindu and indigenous Vedda people of Sri Lanka. People from South India also go there to worship. The town has the Kataragama temple. The town has a venerable history dating back to the last centuries BCE. It was the seat of government of many Sinhalese kings during the days of Rohana kingdom (200BCE). A visit to Kataragama completes our glimpse into Sri Lanka’s 3 main religions. Buddhism in Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, Islam on the east coast and finally Hinduism at Kataragama. The cycling is mostly flat with some climbing in the middle. The total cycling distance is 82kms. We then take a 1hr transfer to the hotel. In the evening, we visit the Kataragama Temple and receive a blessing from the temple priest. ACCOMMODATION: Grand Tamarind Lake – Another stunning hotel located right on a small lake. Excellent for birding enthusiasts. Excellent food as well. Meal Plan: B L D

Day 10

Kataragama - Udawalawe- 57 km

We cycle to Udawalawe today. Our route starts on a surreal abandoned 4 lane highway. The highway suddenly ends and becomes a mud trail along the Lunuganwera Reservoir. Birds galore! Our route continues through scrub jungles and slowly winds up to Udawalawe. A must stop along the way is for some freshly made buffalo curd sold on the roadside. We will reach the camp for lunch. After lunch, the group will visit the elephant orphanage and then go on a safari in the Udawawale National Park. The accommodation for tonight is in semi-luxury tents. Udawalawe National Park was created to provide a sanctuary for wild animals displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir on the Walawe River, as well as to protect the catchment of the reservoir. Before the designation of the national park, the area was used for shifting cultivation (chena farming). It is now an important habitat for water birds and Sri Lankan elephants. Today’s cycling has some sections of single trail mud-roads through remote scrub vegetation. The total distance is 57kms. It is mainly flat. ACCOMMODATION: Jungle Paradise - The accommodation for tonight is in semi-luxury tents. Meal Plan: B L D

Day 11

Udawalawe – Tangalle - 63 km

Today we head south to the southern coast of Sri Lanka and the beautiful beach of Tangalle. The ride starts with a beautiful section as we head towards the coastal area. Small towns and villages mark our progress, with the final stretch taking in some very scenic roads that are dotted with small ponds bustling with birds. Quiet village backroads then lead us to the Rekawa Lagoon and finally to small coastal town of Tangalle from where it is a short distance to our stunning hotel. In the evening we can visit a nearby turtle conservation center. ACCOMMODATION: Eva Lanka Meal Plan: B L D

Day 12

Tangalle – Galle – 60 Km

The last day of cycling. Riding from the hotel we avoid the busy main beach road and use the network of quieter side roads that will allow you to really experience southern Sri Lankan charm. There is lots to see along the way as we wind our way through the small villages and towns of the area and edge towards Weligama. Like on all other cycling days the group will stop regularly for refreshments and local snacks. On this route we will pass rubber and cinnamon plantations. We stop at Weligama and enjoy lunch at a beautiful restaurant on the beach. We then transfer (45mins) to our hotel just outside Galle Fort. Guests can have a shower and rest for a bit. At 1630 we meet as a group and head to Galle Fort. The Galle Fort was first established in the 1600s by the Portuguese, fortified by the Dutch in the 1700s and then taken over by the British in the 1800s. As a result, Galle has vibrant mix of cultures and influences. Now it is bustling with fashionable boutiques and restaurants while still accommodating local schools, churches, mosques and temples. We will go on a casual guided walk around the fort that will end at a nice bar with a great view of the sunset over the ramparts. Dinner will be at restaurant in the fort. Group will be transferred back to the hotel after dinner. MEALS: Breakfast – at the hotel. Lunch – Voucher at restaurant. Dinner – Voucher at restaurant. (Restaurants for lunch and dinner do not do buffets or set menus. So, we will provide a meal voucher that the guests can use to order from the menu. Vouchers will cover the cost of most main courses and dessert, extras like drinks will need to be paid by the guests.) ACCOMMODATION: Jetwing Lighthouse Meal Plan: B L D

Day 13

Galle – Colombo – Tuk Tuk Safari

No trip to Sri Lanka is complete without visiting Colombo. We will transfer (2hrs) after a relaxed start to Colombo. As the nation’s capital it also has some great restaurants. We will head to a Sri Lankan restaurant to finish of our culinary journey and to try any dishes we missed along our route. Our hotel is in the city center and makes it easy for you to explore the city on foot. ACCOMMODATION: Fairway Colombo – A comfortable city hotel located in the heart of downtown Colombo. Meal Plan: B L D

Day 14

Colombo-  Airport

The airport is 1hr away from the hotel. We will transfer the group for their departure flights.

Inclusion
  • Accommodation in the above-mentioned hotels/ campsites/ on double/twin sharing basis

  • Meals Plans as indicated above

  • Well-experienced guides, their meals and accommodation.

  • Well Experienced location/site guides when needed

  • Backup vehicle for cycle transportation.

  • Passenger transportation whenever necessary in a separate coach/mini coach

  • Entrance and activity fees for items mentioned above

  • Snacks & water during the rides.

  • Government taxes and service charges.

Exclusion
  • Any Mandatory medical/insurance to pandemic

  • Any Airfare or Visa fee

  • Any Seasonal Gala Dinner supplements

  • Tips or gratitude to the staff/cyclists

  • Any cost of Optional Activities

  • Camera & video permits where necessary

  • Any other meal or snack other than mentioned above

  • Any expense of personal nature ie. Laundry bills, bar & beverage, telephone calls etc...

  • Any other expenses not mentioned in the inclusions column

It is advisable to bring certain things on your own as we will not be able to provide the following: 

  • Enough clothing for 9 days

  • Rain-resistant Jacket

  • If you wish, you could use a hydration bag.

  • Bring prescribed medicines - If you are currently taking medical treatments,

  • Personal hygiene supplies, such as tissues, soap, toothpaste, and shaving equipment.

  • Zip lock for protecting your devices from water

  • Smartphone and camera

  • A broad-spectrum sunblock

  • A good Water bottle 

  • Bicycle shoes  

  • Appropriate Footwear 

  • Shorts for cycling 

  • Good pair of T-shirts

  • Socks 

  • Neck warmer 

  • Protective sunglass 

  • Good fitting Gloves 

Cost (Euro 2425)

2 Pax - euro 2425,  4 Pax - euro 2300, 6-  Pax -  euro 2080

 NOTE: To access the group rate for 2, 4, and 6 participants, it is required that bookings be made as a cohesive group. For individual bookings, the cost per person is set at 2425 euros.

1, A minimum of two adults is required to operate the trip.

2, In order to qualify for the child discount, a child must share a room with at least two adults. 06 -11 Years euro 1500 (Sharing Parent Room). 12 year onwards consider as adult

3, Peak Period Supplement (10 Dec to 15 Jan): euro 500

4, 50 euros is the additional fee for monument access

OPTIONAL:

1, The applicable rate for a single supplement is euro 800

2, Day 4: Minneriya National Park. The best place to see elephants. Supplement cost – euro 45 per person

Frequently Asked Questions

I’m not a good cyclist. Can I join your tour?

We want more and more people to start utilising bikes for everything from commuting to work to taking leisurely outings, as we are an organisation headed by dedicated bike connoisseurs. Our adventures are therefore created so that the general public may enjoy the tour. To make it easier for you, we'll ride at a relaxed pace. Our trips are classified to help you understand the degree of fitness expected. Take part in one of TRA’s worldwide trips if you're searching for an adrenaline rush.

Do you bike during the summer months?

Cycling is enjoyable in almost any weather, even in the heat. Our tour guides will make a little alteration to the itinerary so you can avoid the intense afternoon sun. To make the journey satisfying for you, we'll include extra water stops and pay close attention to your necessities.

Do you go cycling when it rains?

Yes, cycling in the rain is perfectly pleasant. To keep you warm and dry along the trip, our staff will give you a poncho. Additionally, we will add mudguards to every bike so that you may easily ride over any terrain. We will arrange for a backup until the situation is clear or halt for breaks if the rain is making it difficult to navigate.

I have a tight dietary regimen. Will you be able to cook me a certain meal?

We genuinely like making you feel at home. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or allergies when making your reservation so that we may ensure appropriate food preparations for you.

5. Will it be possible to personalize a tour?

We may tweak the trip if your group is seeking something more thrilling and daring. For additional information, get in touch with one of our amiable representatives.

Should I tip and how much?

In India, leaving a gratuity has become customary. You should donate as much as you feel is appropriate in light of your financial situation, the services you get, and your subjective assessment of those services.

How do you define backup?

We have a lot of local expertise because we've had ample experience leading amazing trips in  Kerala . If you find difficult to ride any point you can hop on our back up vehicle

Must I purchase travel insurance?

Yes, before you leave your home country, we strongly advise purchasing extensive travel insurance.

About the Ride

This coast-to-coast cycling holiday is designed to show you a cross-section of Sri Lankan culture and nature. We chose less-known destinations and completed back-road cycling routes. Both were chosen to showcase the heart of Sri Lanka. We have ancient capitals of the Sri Lankan kingdoms in Yapahuwa and Sigiriya. Safaris in Minneriya and Udawalawe. Untouched wilderness in Maha Oya and Arugam Bay. Cultural connections in Batticaloa, Galle and Colombo. The cycling is mainly on back roads and jeep trails. For the most part, the terrain is flat, but at places, there are some stretches with slight climbs. We avoid traffic and main roads. Accommodation ranges from comfortable 3–4-star hotels, to camps, and boutique properties. 

 

Touring with Bike and Trek Adventure:

Bike and Trek Adventure has specifically formulated itineraries and routes to give you a dream-like experience while on the tour. To ensure that you experience the breathtaking scenery and top-notch facilities that each location has to offer, we have allotted adequate time for you to spend at every destination.

You can be sure that your journey with us will be an amazing one! For your safety and convenience, the majority of our tracks—about 95%—are on paved rural roads that are situated on minor slopes.

 

ACCOMMODATION:

 

There is accommodation available in all regions. The majority of resorts are eco-resorts and premium lifestyle resorts. Our value is entirely dependent on dual sharing. If a person wants a room for themselves only, we may accommodate them for an additional fee.

 

TERRAIN

This route provides an average daily range of 50 to 70 kilometers. Enjoying cycling through rural life and getting to know the heart of Sri Lankan experience is the top objective of this trip. The truck will follow and stop along the way to provide the rider with bottled water and fruit juices. A fantastic way of exchanging various journey experiences.

The bike support truck always follows the last rider. If you want to stop riding, wait by the side of the road, and a support vehicle will immediately receive you.

WEATHER

 

Sri Lanka is a year-round holiday destination thanks to its combination of weather systems ensuring that one or several regions, as well as a section of coastline, is statistically always expecting sunshine.

Whilst the best time to go to Sri Lanka is between November and mid-April, which is considered to be the country wide peak season, the traditional summer holiday months are ls favourable on the east coast which is at its peak from May to September.

 

SUPPORT VEHICLE / TRANSPORTATION

Cost includes all forms of transportation. Our backup car is available throughout the whole bike excursion. If needed, the car can hold both you and your luggage.

 

FOOD 

Eating locally, in our opinion, is not only a lot of fun but also one of those essential aspects of the destination experience—truly an adventure in and of itself! Hence, be adaptable and ready to savor and relish the delicious and diverse cuisine of the globe. The comprehensive itinerary includes a list of the meals that are included and overlooked. One must follow scheduling requirements when meals are included because they are typically at local neighborhood establishments.

Your trip guide will be pleased to recommend restaurants that are popular with the locals whenever meals are not part of the package.  Vegetarian cuisine options may occasionally be monotonous and limiting. Even so, it is impossible to guarantee specific meals, such as vegetarian or kid-friendly options. We will do our best to fulfil your needs. Please be sure to let your guide know if you're a vegetarian while going on guided excursions.

 

CLOTHING

 

We advise wearing solid footwear, dry-fit T-shirts or cycling jerseys, and cycling shorts. Flip-flops and loose-fitting clothing are inappropriate for a bicycling excursion. During the rainy season, you simply need to bring a rain jacket; no additional clothing is necessary.

Your security is our top concern. On the riding portion of the tour, we strongly suggest all of our participants always wear a helmet. We advise our riders to apply a nice coat of sunscreen lotion because we are specialists with sufficient expertise riding on Sri Lankan roads. You can utilize buff headwear for your neck and sun sleeves for your arms to further protect yourself.


PRECAUTIONS

  • Carry all the necessary medicines. Do not disregard it any longer. Do not disregard any longer in doing so. 

  • Drink plenty of liquids. Consume just bottled water. Use the most preferred bottled water that is always present in the car.


Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory on all our trips and all details of your insurance policy including the policy number must be received by us prior to the start of your trip. We are unable to send you your travel certificate / Vouchers unless we receive them.

Money to Carry: Have enough Sri Lankan rupees on hand, either in cash, on your credit card abroad, or through a money exchange.

Personal Equipment/Gear: People with particular requirements are advised to bring their own Bicycles, pedals, shoes, saddle, helmet and cycling clothes.

A typical day on the trip: You will ride for about 5-6 hours through the villages and towns in the itinerary while also exploring the quaint lifestyle and the culture while you ride. The evenings are free for leisure activities and sightseeing.

Available medical facilities: There are medical facilities (First Aid) available but we suggest carrying your own first aid kit and personal medicines as well. Also, consult with the family Doctor before coming on our tour.

Overview

TYPE OF TOUR: Guided

REGION: Sri Lanka

GRADE: Moderate

DURATION: 14 days / 13 nights

RIDING DISTANCE: 615 Km

GROUP SIZE: 02 – 06 People (Minimum requirement – 02 people)

EXPERIENCE: Regular Riders

APPROPRIATE FOR: 15 YEARS AND UP

SEASON: October to Mid-April

SERVICE FROM: Negombo 

MEALS: Vegetarian + Non-Vegetarian (As per Itinerary)

ACCOMMODATION: Hotels, Camps Boutique Hotels and Beach Resorts

Important Links

Cycling Fitness Guide

25MB

Liability

25MB

Disclaimer & Declaration

25MB

Parents Disclaimer

25MB

Medical Disclaimer

25MB

Terms & Conditions

25MB

Key Highlights

  • Coast to Coast ride around the Pearl!

  • Cultural highlights in Yapahuwa, Dambulla & Sigiriya

  • Surreal and remote cycling routes

  • Authentic cultural exchanges

  • Wildlife encounters and safaris

  • Warm welcome from local people in villages

  • Delicious and varied regional food

  • Walks through historic Galle and Colombo

Eligibility

Do check out our detailed itinerary for an in-depth look at all the marvels that awaits you on our Cost to Cost Bicycle Expedition.

 

  • Rider should be able to ride 5-6 hours 

  • Anyone above 15 years of age. 

  • The participant has to be in good physical condition and possess the energy to accomplish 6 km in 30 min without feeling rushed.

  • Pulse rate at rest must be in between (60-90 per second)

  • Blood pressure reading must be between (Diastolic 75-85, Systolic 100-130 Hg)

  • Respiratory rate at rest must be in between (12 – 20 breaths per minute)

  • Should not have liver and kidney issues

  • Should not have diabetes Mellitus, Asthma, Epilepsy, Heart problems, High BP

  • No pacemaker implant

  • Experience: Regular riders, Any multi day trek or hiking, marathon runners

  • Riders below 15 years should have a company of a parent / guardian

  • Riders between 15-18 years can come solo with the disclaimer form signed by parent/ Guardian

Eventos futuros

bottom of page