Sri Lanka's Traditions & Adventure
| PRICE FROM | DURATION | |
|---|---|---|
|
AUD
$14,225
|
Days
13
|
Nights
12
|
| PRICE FROM | DURATION | |
|---|---|---|
|
AUD
$14,225
|
Days
13
|
Nights
12
|
Introduction
This 12-day cycling journey through Sri Lanka offers a perfect blend of culture, and scenic beauty as you traverse the island’s diverse landscapes.
This is the perfect trip for active travellers wanting to experience Sri Lanka from a different perspective. Beginning in the cultural heart of Kandy, the itinerary includes exhilarating cycling routes along stages of the renowned Pekoe Trail through lush tea plantations, serene countryside, and historic sites. You’ll cycle past iconic landmarks like Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, explore the beauty of Horton Plains and Lipton’s Seat, and navigate through rural villages and paddy fields. The trip also features hikes, whale watching in Mirissa, and visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Galle Fort, ensuring an immersive experience in Sri Lanka’s rich heritage and stunning natural landscapes. This adventure promises a cycling experience like no other, with a perfect balance of thrilling rides and cultural exploration.
Itinerary
Day 1 : Colombo > Kotugoda
Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your accommodation in Kotugoda.
Day 2 : Kotugoda > Sigiriya
After breakfast you depart toward Sirigiya to start your journey. Upon arrival in Sigiriya you will check in to your room. You will have the opportunity to meet your cycling expert, set up your bicycles, and take a test ride, if time allows.
Day 3 : Sigiriya
This morning you will focus on exploring Sri Lanka’s history, with a visit to Sigiriya by bicycle. Sigiriya is often considered one of the world’s wonders, with its ancient ruins, including the giant lion paws carved into the rock. Begin with a short ride to Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s must-see landmarks. Visit the Mirror Wall and the Sirigiya Gardens and enjoy panoramic views of the island.
Next you will cycle from Sigiriya’s entrance through the remote village of Thalkote to the Thalkotawewa reservoir. Witness traditional farming practices, including paddy and Chena cultivation. You might even spot wild elephants and a diversity of bird species along the way.
Along the route, you’ll visit two important archaeological sites: the Stupa where King Kashyapa was cremated, and the Pidurangala Viharaya, a Buddhist monastery dating back to the 1st-2nd century BC and linked to King Kashyapa’s reign. Return to your hotel where you can unwind and relax.
Cycling Distance: 30 km
Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours
Day 4 : Sigiriya > Polonnaruwa
After breakfast, embark on an exciting journey to another historical treasure, cycling from Sigiriya to Polonnaruwa. This remarkable ride through Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle blends adventure, history, and natural beauty. The route takes you through tranquil villages, lush greenery, and sprawling paddy fields, offering a genuine taste of the island’s serene countryside charm.
Cycling Distance: 45 km
Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours
Upon arrival in Polonnaruwa, you’ll cycle through the ancient archaeological site, exploring its rich history. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Polonnaruwa served as Sri Lanka’s capital from the 11th to the 13th century. After exploring the archaeological wonders, you’ll head to Priyamali Gedara, a local farmer’s house converted into a charming restaurant overlooking picturesque paddy fields. Here, you can participate in a traditional cooking demonstration and even lend a hand in preparing lunch, making it a truly immersive experience. Later, return to the hotel, where you can relax.
Day 5 : Sigiriya > Kandy
After breakfast, cycle from Sigiriya to Naula, a route that takes you through lush fields, quaint villages, and traditional farmlands, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s agricultural life. You may also encounter small temples, reservoirs, and local wildlife, adding to the beauty of the ride. Upon reaching Naula, you’ll enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this lesser-known town.
Cycling Distance: 35 km
Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours
After the ride, you will be driven to Kandy, the cultural heart of Sri Lanka. Surrounded by lush hills and a serene lake, Kandy is famed as the last stronghold of the Sinhala kings. The city is home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic and the Royal Botanical Gardens, which boast an impressive collection of orchids. Next you will be transferred to your hotel for your check in. In the evening you will visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa).
Day 6 : Kandy > Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast, embark on a hike along the first stage of the world-renowned Pekoe Trail. This scenic trek takes you from Hantana to Galaha, offering breathtaking views of lush tea plantations and rolling hills. Beginning in the charming Hantana region, the trail winds through verdant landscapes, passing through tea estates and quaint villages. Along the way, you’ll immerse yourself in the local tea culture and enjoy the peace of the natural surroundings.
Walking/Hiking Distance: 12 Km
Duration: 3.5 Hours
After completing the trail, proceed to Nuwara Eliya, Set in the heart of the Tea Country, Nuwara Eliya has a climate unlike anywhere else in Sri Lanka. Situated 1890 meters above sea level, it offers a cooler and more invigorating climate than lower regions. Check in to your hotel in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 7 : Nuwara Eliya
After an early breakfast, embark on another adventurous day exploring Stage 22 of the Pekoe Trail. This trail takes you to Kandapola, winding through lush tea plantations, rolling hills, and misty mountains. Starting at the historic Pedro Estate, renowned for its traditional tea production, the route offers breathtaking views of valleys and peaks. Along the way, you’ll encounter uphill climbs, charming rural villages, and glimpses of Nuwara Eliya with its colonial charm.
Walking/Hiking Distance: 11 Km
Duration: 3.5 Hours
Upon returning to Pedro Estate, visit the Pedro Tea Factory to learn about the process of making some of the world’s finest tea. After the tour, enjoy a refreshing cup of freshly brewed tea before returning to your hotel.
Day 8 : Nuwara Eliya > Haputale
This morning you’ll a short scenic drive to Horton Plains for your cycling experience today. Here, amidst the tranquil high-altitude grasslands of Horton Plains National Park, set off on an exhilarating journey downhill to the charming lowland village of Kalupahana. This adventure isn’t just about the scenery, it’s about the thrill of the ride. With a mix of smooth descents, rugged terrain, and rocky paths, the journey promises excitement at every turn, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and adrenaline. Upon reaching Kalupahana, you will be driven to your hotel in Haputale.
Cycling Distance: 23 KM
Duration: 3.5 Hours
Day 9 : Haputale > Ella > Haputale
Wake up to another morning filled with exciting experiences. This morning you will hike through the scenic hills of Haputale, following Stage 13 of the world-famous Pekoe Trail. This captivating route leads from Haputale, a vibrant town in Sri Lanka’s tea country, to the iconic Lipton’s Seat, the historic viewpoint where Sir Thomas Lipton once admired his vast tea empire. Take a moment to soak in the panoramic vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see—a true reward for your efforts. After the hike, return to the hotel for a well-earned break. In the afternoon, take a short drive to Ella to visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, a stunning architectural marvel nestled amidst emerald tea fields.
Walking/Hiking Distance: 13 Km
Duration: 3.5 Hours
Day 10 : Haputale > Wellawaya
Today you will cycle the misty hills of Haputale to the sunlit lowlands of Wellawaya, covering approximately 40 km of diverse and stunning terrain. You will be surrounded by lush tea estates and panoramic mountain views. Along the way, pass charming villages, cascading waterfalls by the roadside, and expansive paddy fields, providing a glimpse into the heart of rural Sri Lanka. The journey concludes at your accommodation in Wellawaya.
Cycling Distance: 40 Km
Duration: 4 Hours
Day 11 : Wellawaya > Galle
Today cycle from Wellawaya to Kuda Oya, through peaceful lowlands, past lush paddy fields, traditional rural villages, and tranquil riversides. As you near Kuda Oya, the landscape shifts to a stunning mix of rolling hills and lush jungles, bringing the ride to a peaceful close. The trail culminates in the Kuda Oya area, where you can relax and soak in the serene beauty of the surroundings. Upon arriving in Kuda Oya, you will be transferred to your hotel in Galle.
Cycling Distance: 40 Km
Duration: 4 Hours
Day 12 : Galle > Mirissa > Galle
We rise early for an exciting morning at sea, embarking on a private boat for an unforgettable whale-watching adventure. Sri Lanka’s south coast is one of the best places in the world to spot Blue Whales, with a longer season than anywhere else. From November to April, as the whales migrate from the Horn of Africa to the Arabian Sea, they can be seen in the waters surrounding Sri Lanka. In addition to Blue Whales, you may also spot Sperm Whales in pods, as well as other cetacean species like Bryde’s Whale, Dwarf Sperm Whale, spinner dolphins, Striped Dolphins, and Indo-Pacific Bottlenose dolphins.
Whale Watching – Mirissa (Season: November to April)
After an exciting whale-watching adventure, return to your hotel for some well-deserved relaxation. Later in the evening, we’ll take a short drive to Galle Fort, where you can immerse yourself in the breathtaking sunset views.
Optional cycling activity:
You can opt to cycle from Cape Weligama to Galle Fort while enjoying scenic views along the way.
Cycling Distance: 25 km
Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours
You can end your evening relaxing at one of the charming cafes and restaurants nearby Galle Fort.
Day 13 : Galle > Colombo
After breakfast you will be transferred to Colombo airport where arrangements conclude.
Need Help?
Pricing
Pricing (per person), AUD
TYPE |
TWIN from |
SINGLE from |
|---|---|---|
|
2026 |
||
|
4- to 5-star |
||
|
11 Jan – 30 Apr |
AU$17,385 |
AU$26,415 |
|
01 May – 30 Jun; 01 Sep – 31 Oct |
AU$14,225 |
AU$19,995 |
| 01 Jul – 31 Aug |
AU$16,870 |
AU$25,185 |
2026
4- to 5-star
11 Jan – 30 Apr
Twin from: $17385
Single from: $26415
01 May – 30 Jun; 01 Sep – 31 Oct
Twin from: $14225
Single from: $19995
01 Jul – 31 Aug
Twin from: $16870
Single from: $25185
Departs
| Daily, year-round |
Type of Journey
Tailor-made journey: This itinerary includes daily hiking and cycling activities and is perfect for adventurous travellers. We can tailor-make this itinerary, with the number of days, places visited, and activities varied to suit you.
Included
- 12 nights’ accommodation
- 12 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 11 dinners
- VIP Meet & Greet at Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport
- English-speaking driver/guide and cycling guide
- Private transfers by SUV as per the itinerary
- Private sightseeing by SUV as per itinerary
- Private whale watching cruise
- Entrance fees as per itinerary
- Bicycle rental including e-bikes
- Value Added Tax (VAT) and Tourism Tax
Not Included
- Gratuities
Important Notes
- Pricing varies due to fluctuations in exchange rates; please contact us for current pricing or other changes
- Pricing is based on a minimum of 2 travellers
- The single price is based on travelling with others in your party
- Please enquire about pricing for a single travelling alone or cross-season
- Surcharges apply during the Christmas and New Year’s period
- Surcharges apply during the Kandy Esala Perahera Festival
- Surcharges may also apply during other festivals and National holidays
- Whale Watching season is from November to April
Please refer to World Journeys terms & conditions
























