Sri Lanka Backroads Cycling Tour

This immersive journey blends guided cycling with unforgettable experiences — including a wildlife safari and the iconic Kandy–Ella Hill Country train journey — revealing the island’s rich culture, landscapes and warmth beyond the bike

Sri Lanka is a country of extraordinary contrasts. On this immersive cycling journey, we explore the island’s most captivating regions via quiet backroads, scenic railways and unforgettable wildlife encounters — revealing a depth of culture & landscape few travellers see.

Riding alongside our experienced local guides, we gain access to places and experiences that bring Sri Lanka to life — from village roads and hidden temples to unique local venues rarely found on the usual tourist trail. Our routes favour peaceful backroads and rural landscapes, while a dedicated support vehicle is always close by, offering flexibility, comfort and peace of mind.

Our adventure unfolds from the coastal capital Colombo and ventures to Sri Lanka’s ancient heart. Our itinerary slowly makes it way east to one of the country’s most iconic landmarks, the legendary Sigiriya Rock Fortress, rising dramatically above the surrounding plains.

Turning south and into tea hill country, we will trade the bike for one of the world’s great rail journeys — the iconic Kandy–Ella Hill Country train, always a highlight. Winding through misty mountains, tea plantations and narrow tunnels, this legendary journey offers a breathtaking perspective of Sri Lanka’s lush interior before we continue cycling through cool-climate hill towns and emerald-green valleys. With the option of e-bikes available, riders can choose the level of assistance that makes each day more enjoyable, allowing you to focus on the experience rather than the effort.

Descending from the highlands, the scenery transforms once again. Waterfalls tumble from jungle-clad cliffs, rural temples emerge from the forest, and the road leads us towards Sri Lanka’s wild south and Yala National Park where a guided safari offers the chance to encounter elephants, leopards and abundant birdlife in their natural habitat.

Each day ends in carefully selected premium accommodation, chosen for comfort, character and location — many featuring swimming pools, perfect for unwinding after a rewarding day of exploration. Supported by expert guides and thoughtful logistics, this tour balances active cycling with cultural depth, comfort and variety.

This is Sri Lanka experienced fully — by bike, by train, and beyond.

Highlights

• Cycle Sri Lanka’s Quiet Backroads
  • Ride peaceful coastal lanes, village roads and rural landscapes, guided by local experts who unlock authentic experiences far beyond the tourist trail.
• The Iconic Kandy–Ella Hill Country Train Journey*
  • Travel one of the world’s most scenic rail routes, winding through misty mountains, tea plantations and lush valleys in Sri Lanka’s emerald heartland.
• Visit the Iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress
  • Explore the surrounds of this UNESCO-listed ancient citadel, rising dramatically above the plains, with the option to walk to the summit for those who wish.
• Wildlife Safari in Yala National Park
  • Experience Sri Lanka’s wild side on a guided jeep safari, with the chance to encounter elephants, leopards and a remarkable diversity of birdlife.
• Premium Comfort, Thoughtfully Curated
  • Stay in carefully selected premium accommodation — many with swimming pools — supported by a dedicated support vehicle and optional e-bikes for a relaxed, enjoyable journey.