Cycle Sri Lanka: Beyond the Ordinary
DISCOVER EXCEPTIONAL CYCLING TOURS IN SRI LANKA
Sri Lanka is fast becoming one of the world’s most compelling cycling destinations — a place where discerning riders can immerse themselves in diverse landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable roads. From tranquil coastal paths and gently rolling countryside to challenging highland climbs and jungle trails, Sri Lanka offers an extraordinary variety of terrain that caters to both adventurous road cyclists and those seeking scenic, multi-day touring experiences.
At Sri Lanka Bespoke, we partner with a carefully selected specialist cycling experts who curate thoughtfully-designed tours tailored to passionate cyclists. Our collaborations draw on deep local knowledge and cycling expertise to craft experiences that go beyond simple rides — they are journeys into the heart of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Ride Through Varied Terrains and Timeless Landscapes
Whether you’re pedalling along serene coastal roads with ocean views or tackling the rolling foothills of the Central Highlands, Sri Lanka’s cycling routes offer something for every type of rider. Long, smooth stretches along the coast are perfect for endurance cyclists and those looking to enjoy balmy sea breezes and open roads. In contrast, the island’s central highland terrain — with its lush tea-covered slopes and misty valleys — provides more demanding climbs and steep descents that reward strong riders with spectacular panoramas.
In the south and southeast, rich rainforest reserves and wildlife sanctuaries unfold along quiet lanes, giving riders an immersive nature experience. Cultural treasures such as ancient temples, crumbling ruins, and traditional villages punctuate many routes, ensuring that each day’s ride delivers both physical challenge and sensory delight.
Curated Touring Experiences for the Passionate Cyclist
Our cycling tours are designed for riders who appreciate meticulous planning and meaningful engagement with a destination. Whether you’re looking for guided multi-day adventures, mixed terrain exploration, or culturally-rich rides with local insights, these tours offer:
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Expert local guides who know the best roads, hidden routes, and terrain nuances.
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Well-maintained, performance-ready bikes suited to a range of surfaces and preferences.
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Boutique accommodations and regional cuisine to complement your riding day with comfort and flavour.
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Flexible pacing and support to let you ride confidently, whether you’re aiming for endurance goals or scenic enjoyment.
This combination of meticulous logistics and the freedom to explore is what sets premium cycling tours apart — and why experienced riders continue to seek out Sri Lanka as a ride destination.
Ultimate HILL COUNTRY RIDE 2026
Join us in 2026, for our featured cycling tour in Sri Lanka is the Ultimate Hill Country Ride — an iconic journey that showcases the very best of the island’s highland terrain. This carefully curated cycling experience takes riders through the heart of Sri Lanka on quiet back roads and iconic climbs, set against unforgettable landscapes.
From mist-covered tea country and rolling hill roads to the legendary 18 Bends climb and palm-lined coastal finishes, this Sri Lanka cycling tour reveals the island at its most diverse and rewarding.
Designed for riders who value challenge, culture, and comfort in equal measure, each day balances purposeful riding with time to slow down and experience Sri Lanka beyond the bike — its people, scenery, and deep sense of place.
Thoughtfully supported and entirely bespoke, this is cycling in Sri Lanka at its most authentic — a richly textured journey that will satisfy experienced cyclists seeking a premium, once-in-a-lifetime cycling holiday.
Please see our brochure for the detailed itinerary.
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RIDE DEEPER – SEPTEMBER 2026
- 7 Nights / Ride 6 Days
- Road & Gravel
- Expert Cycle & Tour Guides
- 4* Hotels
- All Transfers
- All Bike Transfers
- Bike Mechanic & Assistance throughout
- Bring your own bikes or Bianchi Bikes available for hire
- E-Bikes available for hire
THE ULTIMATE HILL COUNTRY RIDE
Day 1 | Arrival Day: Transport from the airport to your hotel near the airport on the beach & pre-tour prep.
Day 2 | Hill Country: Introduction ~40-50 km: A scenic ride from Kithulgala through rolling mid-country roads, gradually climbing into Sri Lanka’s tea heartland, with quiet lanes, lush greenery and a steady ascent into the cool hills of Hatton.
Day 3 | Tea Country Chill Loop: ~60-70 km: A chill ride through Sri Lanka’s iconic tea country, cycling along quiet roads lined with lush, emerald-green plantations and gentle rolling hills, soaking up the cool air and timeless scenery.
Day 4 | Tea Country to Kandy: ~90km: A hilly downhill ride from Hatton through villages and lush countryside, finishing in the cultural heart of Kandy.
Day 5 | Kandy Backroads Loop: ~50–60 km: A scenic loop on quiet rural roads around Kandy, combining gentle climbs, forested lanes and panoramic hill-country views.
Day 6 | Iconic 18 Bends Climb: ~100-110 km: A true highlight of the tour: tackle the legendary 18 Bends, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic and challenging climbs, winding through tea plantations, alongside jungles and spectacular views at every turn.
Day 7 | Sigiriya & Ancient Loops: ~80–100 km: A relaxed final ride across flat, open countryside, passing ancient reservoirs and dry-zone scenery, with optional loops to extend the distance.
Day 8 | Departure Day: Transfer from your Cultural Triangle hotel to the airport.
Daha Ata Wanguwa, commonly known as the 18 Bends, is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic mountain roads, stretching approximately 41 kilometres through the Central Province between Kandy and Mahiyanganaya. Originally built by British colonial rulers in the mid-19th century as an estate supply route, the road is famed for its series of dramatic hairpin bends that climb steadily through challenging mountainous terrain. Winding past tea estates, misty valleys and lush hillsides, each bend reveals ever-changing views and a growing sense of scale. For cyclists and road-trippers alike, the 18 Bends is a true bucket-list stretch of tarmac that perfectly captures both the beauty and challenge of Sri Lanka’s hill country.
Cycling in Sri Lanka offers a rare chance to move through landscapes where wildlife still roams freely. Quiet backroads and rural tracks often pass through national park boundaries, forests and farmland, where encounters with roaming elephants, monkeys, peacocks and water buffalo are possible. It’s this close connection to nature — riding through misty hills, jungle edges and open plains — that makes cycling in Sri Lanka both exhilarating and uniquely immersive.
