Instead of settling for your average holiday, why not grab your bike and experience the adventure of a lifetime by cycling the length of Sri Lanka? India’s neighbour is often overlooked as a tourist destination, but this country is teeming with history, beautiful beaches and a wide array of stunning wildlife. Every day of this epic journey brings with it a new experience, so what are you waiting for?
SpiceRoads CyclingVery few tourists can ever say they’ve experienced the delight of dipping their toes in the Indian Ocean at the northern and southern tips of Sri Lanka. However, on this epic cycling adventure from coast to coast you can seize this rare opportunity and also dip your bike tires for good measure too.
Due to its checkered history, Sri Lanka has often been ignored as a holiday destination, but supported by guides you can be assured of a safe and spellbinding trip. The first day of riding brings a gentle introduction as you take in the surrounding nature, a number of Catholic churches and the beaming smiles of locals.
Heading north you will get to explore the northern plains, the Jaffna Peninsula and its surrounding islands. Eventually, you will come to the northernmost point of Sri Lanka and here you can roll your rear bike tire into the Indian Ocean for a ceremonial dip before everyone begins the ride south.
When you’re not busy marvelling at the enthralling nature, it’s difficult not to be overawed by the history of Sri Lanka. Over the course of two days both on foot and in the saddle you can experience the majesty of the ancient city of Anuradhapura.
Dating back to the 5th century BC, this enigmatic place is full of Buddhist monuments and after leaving, you continue your odyssey into Sri Lanka’s spiritual past by climbing the Sigiriya Rock fortress.
Relaxation is important and you earn that on the eighth day in the mesmerising town of Kandy. You can also check out the fascinating temple complex at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
This bit of relaxation is perfect preparation for the hills that await further in the south and into the heart of the tea country. A stopover in an old colonial residence in Hatton allows you the time to discover more about tea, a drink that is admired the world over. After which, cycle downhill to the Uda Walawe National Park where you can spot elephants and crocodiles.
Your final day of riding will lead you whizzing to Dondra Lighthouse, the southernmost point of Sri Lanka where you can celebrate an epic journey by ceremonially dipping your front tires in the Indian Ocean and then of course your bodies too.