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Explore rich Sri Lankan history and culture by bike
The group flight from London typically arrives at Bandaranayake International Airport around lunchtime and we transfer to Sigiriya (approximately 4 hours) where we stay for the next 2 nights. *Hotel Sigiriya or alternative accommodation in the area*
After breakfast we ride along gravel roads following an old irrigation canal to Dambulla, the 2nd Century BC Buddhist cave temple. It is well worth the walk to view the five caves, which contain many ancient Buddha statues, some carved from the solid rock. Returning via the busy market town we take another quiet back road riding through chilli and rice fields before cycling back at our hotel for lunch and a relaxing swim in the pool. In the late afternoon we climb the 5th Century rock fortress of Sigiriya to see the beautiful frescoes painted onto the rock face (not recommended for those who suffer from vertigo). The ruins of the palace on the summit are surpassed only by the magnificent aerial view of the surrounding jungle. Stay as long as you like, as it's only 10 minutes walk back to our hotel. *Hotel Sigiriya or alternative accommodation in the area*
Distance in Km: 52
Distance in Miles: 32
A long morning ride along a quiet back road which is part of the Sigiriya nature reserve, before joining the highway travelling east towards Polonnaruwa, riding all the way to our lunch stop and overnight stay. For those who fancy a swim, the hotel also has a swimming pool, a pleasant place to spend the hot early afternoon. Later we tour the old ruined city of Polonnaruwa, which dates from the 10-13th centuries. *The Village Hotel or alternative accommodation in the area*
Distance in Km: 73
Distance in Miles: 45
We follow the local lake's man-made 6km dam and feeder canal to its source, the Amban Ganga River. The afternoon ride is flanked by the stunning Kalanduwa hills on one side and the borders of Wasgomuwa Wildlife Park on the other. As the jungle gives way to plantations, we enter the spice growing region of Sri Lanka. The night is spent in a family-run guest house with small cabanas dotted around the estate. It’s basic but the home cooking in clay pots on wood fired stoves gives you the real flavour of Sri Lanka. If you would like to find out more about the spices used in the piquant Lankan curries, the owners can arrange a visit to one of the renowned spice gardens a short walk down the road. *Countryside Hotel or alternative accommodation in the area*
Distance in Km: 80
Distance in Miles: 49
Today is tougher as we head for the hills and Kandy, the spiritual and cultural capital of the hill country. Those who feel like an easy day can jump onto the bus for the 50km trip to Kandy, while the rest of us pedal away, riding through the Moorish town of Matale. Its inhabitants, descendants from Arab spice traders, still control most of the spice market, which is a good place to pick up some freshly ground curry powder. As Kandy's roads are as old as the city itself, we may have to drive the last few kilometres to avoid the traffic. Surrounded by hills, the town is centred around a small lake and the Temple of the Tooth. The afternoon is free to wander through the streets and markets. *Hotel Thilanka or alternative accommodation in the area*
Distance in Km: 53
Distance in Miles: 32
A free day to explore the town. Kandy has many interesting attractions including the wonderful Botanical Gardens, the famous Temple of the Tooth, and streets lined with interesting curio shops. The surrounding hills are dotted with wonderful temples. *Hotel Thilanka or alternative accommodation in the area*
For anyone who doesn't do hills, we strongly recommend the train ride to Nuwara Eliya. For those who feel like a challenge, it’s 84km, climbing up to 2000m above sea level to reach this most favoured hill station. For the first part of the ride we take the old road, a far more pleasant route, and one of the few places where you see terraced paddy fields. Beyond the paddy fields is tea country and the area is reputed to produce the finest teas on the island. Tickets for the train journey are dependent on availability on the day (although usually available, there may be the chance that the bus will need to be used instead for those who don't fancy the hill). *Mirage King's Cottage or alternative accommodation in the area*
Distance in Km: 84
Distance in Miles: 52
In the morning we visit a tea factory on the edge of the town, and then cycle through hilly country towards Ella, stopping for lunch at a local restaurant and later tea in Bandarawela, a trading centre where exotic fruits from the east coast are traded for hill-country vegetables. Arriving in the late afternoon, we watch the sunset from the famous view point, Ella Gap. On a clear day you can see the coast shimmering in the distance. *Hotel Country Comfort or alternative accommodation in the area*
Distance in Km: 66
Distance in Miles: 41
Descending 1000m we leave the breathtaking scenery of Uva Province for the gentle rolling hills of the dry zone, stopping at the impressive rock-cut Buddha Statues at Buduruvagala. The giant 15m rock carving of Buddha is flanked by small figures depicting his helpers and a very rare image of Maitreya, the future Buddha, which dates from the 10th Century. The tranquillity of the place is enhanced by the lotus-covered lake where we will relax on the banks and enjoy some fresh fruit before riding on to lunch. Here we can retreat from the heat of the day, before the final 30km to Tissamaharama, the capital of the old Ruhuna Kingdom. *Chandrika Hotel or alternative accommodation in the area*
Distance in Km: 102
Distance in Miles: 63
In the morning we cycle to Kataragama temple, which lies 16km northeast of Tissa. People of all faiths come to seek favour with the god Skanda, who is reputed to restore people's health. The colourful and noisy pooja is always busy, with thousands of pilgrims during the festival season from July - August. Tissa is close to Yala National Park, the best park in Sri Lanka to see leopard. After lunch we have a safari in the park, when we may see elephant, deer, wild boar, sloth bear, Asian jackal, lots of birdlife and if very lucky a leopard. We return to Tissa for the night (please note that the sanctuary may be closed for 4-6 weeks from September to October allowing the park authorities to check the animals. We therefore go to an alternative area close by, usually Lunugamvehera or Udawalawe National Park). *Chandrika Hotel or alternative accommodation in the area*
Distance in Km: 32
Distance in Miles: 19
Leaving early to avoid the heat of the dry zone, we ride along the boundary of Bundala Bird Sanctuary. During certain times of the year, thousands of flamingos can be seen wading in the brackish shallows, eyed up by crocodiles, basking in the early morning sun. We hit the main road for the final 30km to Hambantota, a series of sandy bays fanning out from this typical coastal town. Transfer from Hambantota to Ahangama by coach. For the next 2 nights we stay in Ahangama. *Insight Resort or alternative accommodation in the area*
Distance in Km: 37
Distance in Miles: 22
Relax at the hotel or join a late morning ride along rural roads to the village of Wandurugama before returning via Koggala Lake and back to the hotel to end our riding. This afternoon is free to explore the beach area or swim and laze by the pool. In the late afternoon we can view the stilt fishermen climb their poles to catch a few bites for supper. From November to April we can also go whale watching off Dondra head, near Mirissa, which is one of the best places in the world for seeing Blue and Sperm whales. Huge pods of dolphins are also often seen accompanying the boats. *Insight Resort or alternative accommodation in the area*
Leaving mid morning, we will stop to visit Galle. The Old Dutch fort was built in 1663 after the Dutch took the island from the Portuguese. The old ramparts and small back streets bring alive some of the history of the fight for colonial domination of this prized island. You’re free to find your own lunch, meeting back at the bus at around 2.30pm for the 2 hour drive to Colombo. The rest of the day is free to relax by the pool or shop along the main street. For the last evening meal we can choose from one of the many restaurants in Colombo. *Hotel Mirage or alternative accommodation in the area*
If you are travelling on the group flight we will have a morning transfer to the airport for the daytime flight to London. The arrangements for those not flying with the group end after check out. **
* 10 days cycling (including 1 optional ride) with full vehicle support
* 95% tarmac, 5% unsurfaced road
* Routes mostly follow quiet back roads, with frequent climbs
* Group normally 5 to 16, plus leader and driver. Min age 16 years
* 11 nights hotels, 2 nights guesthouses, all en suite
All breakfasts and 10 lunches included.
Sri Lankan cuisine is a fascinating reflection of the island’s heritage;
there is a unique fusion of fresh local produce with spices brought to the
island over the centuries by Malays, Arabs, Indians as well as the Dutch,
Portuguese and English. Despite, or perhaps because of, these influences Sri
Lankan cuisine is often referred to simply as ‘Rice and Curry’; this is
the staple dish in most restaurants and is usually a serving of rice
accompanied by assorted meat and vegetable curries as well as various pickles
‘sambols’ and a handful of tiny poppadum’s – all using the
contrasting flavours of coconut, chilli, curry leaves, cinnamon and garlic.
The variety is constant and this along with the abundance of fresh seafood
and fish ensures the cuisine is a constant highlight of the trip. Vegetarians
are well catered for but please inform us before departure of any special
dietary requests. Please note that in Sri Lanka the availability of certain
products is minimal or non-existent (for example, wheat or dairy-free) so
please be prepared for this as you may need to bring these from home. Spicier
food can be avoided easily and lots of the hotels with serve Western options
alongside traditional food. All lunch and tea stops are subject to change
dependent on the cycling speed of the group as well as the weather
conditions.
* 10 days cycling (including 1 optional ride) with full vehicle support
* 95% tarmac, 5% unsurfaced road
* Routes mostly follow quiet back roads, with frequent climbs
* Group normally 5 to 16, plus leader and driver. Min age 16 years
* 11 nights hotels, 2 nights guesthouses, all en suite
*This trip is rated Activity Level 4- Moderate/ Challenging*
Average daily distance: 65km / 40 miles
No. of days cycling: 10 (including 1 optional ride)
Vehicle Support: Fully supported
Terrain is hilly, particularly around Nuwara Eliya and the hill country, but
the support vehicle available is if required. Routes mostly follow quiet
backroads with occasional unsurfaced sections which may be rough in places.
Rides are designed to run door-to-door without transfers. Keeping to the
backroads means that there is less traffic but it will become busier when
approaching towns.
Hotels & Guesthouses
Accommodation on this trip is a mixture of tourist-class hotels, some with
pools and some local guesthouses. Guesthouses are simple but in good
locations along the cycle route giving a real flavour of the country. All
rooms have en suite facilities. Wi-Fi is available at the majority of places,
either in the rooms or the communal areas.
The hotel that we typically use in Nuwara Eliya has been selected for the
character of the premises and the appearance of its grounds but the level of
service is not always at the standard of the other hotels on this itinerary.
Single accommodation (available on request)
*Please note paying the single supplement may not mean that you receive a
double or twin room for sole use. The room you are allocated may differ from
hotel to hotel, and on some nights a smaller room for ‘one person’ may
well be allocated.*
Our Sri Lankan team of leaders have proved very popular with their incredible
knowledge, passion and hospitality adding greatly to the experience. There is
no better way to experience Sri Lankan culture than letting a local leader
show you around their country. Depending on group size, there may be two
cycling leaders.
All breakfasts and 10 lunches included.
Sri Lankan cuisine is a fascinating reflection of the island’s heritage;
there is a unique fusion of fresh local produce with spices brought to the
island over the centuries by Malays, Arabs, Indians as well as the Dutch,
Portuguese and English. Despite, or perhaps because of, these influences Sri
Lankan cuisine is often referred to simply as ‘Rice and Curry’; this is
the staple dish in most restaurants and is usually a serving of rice
accompanied by assorted meat and vegetable curries as well as various pickles
‘sambols’ and a handful of tiny poppadum’s – all using the
contrasting flavours of coconut, chilli, curry leaves, cinnamon and garlic.
The variety is constant and this along with the abundance of fresh seafood
and fish ensures the cuisine is a constant highlight of the trip. Vegetarians
are well catered for but please inform us before departure of any special
dietary requests. Please note that in Sri Lanka the availability of certain
products is minimal or non-existent (for example, wheat or dairy-free) so
please be prepared for this as you may need to bring these from home. Spicier
food can be avoided easily and lots of the hotels with serve Western options
alongside traditional food. All lunch and tea stops are subject to change
dependent on the cycling speed of the group as well as the weather
conditions.
Transfers to and from the airport are in a private bus. All your luggage and
personal belongings will be carried by the support vehicles. Transfer
sections will be done in the minicoach, which is air-conditioned. The support
vehicle will follow the riders almost all of the time for those on the main
route, allowing you to cycle as much or as little as you like.
*Travelling flight inclusive from London: 15 days*
The group flight from London is an overnight flight departing the day before
Day 1 of the itinerary.
*Flights from London*
We normally use the scheduled services of Sri Lankan Airlines (depending on
availability). As flight timings and schedules change regularly we recommend
you call one of our specialist sales staff or your agent to confirm
up-to-date timings. Please note timings may change at a later date and cannot
be confirmed until approximately two weeks before departure.
*Travelling land only: 14 days starting in *Sigiriya *and ending
in *Colombo**
Your trip normally starts at our accommodation in Sigiriya in the afternoon
of Day 1 of the itinerary. Details of how to reach the start point are
provided in the Final Joining Instructions - sent approximately two weeks
before departure. Accommodation check-in times are normally from around 12
noon. If you wish to book a private transfer to the start or from the end
point please contact you sales agent. Please note the cost of our private
transfer is likely to be higher than a local taxi as our service is subject
to local government tax. We only allocate vetted drivers.
Airport transfers are included for those on the group flights. Please note
that transfers are not included for clients arriving on any other flight,
even if Exodus has booked it.
If you require airport transfers, you may (by prior arrangement only) be able
to join the group transfer. Transfers are arranged to coincide with the
arrival time of the group flight ‐ please check the group flight details 2
weeks before departure. If you do not take this transfer, or miss it, you
must make your own way to the joining point at your own expense.
Rainfall is determined by seasonal and regional variations. The monsoon
season in the south-west lasts from May to November, when the rainfall can be
exceptionally heavy. In the northern dry zone, most of the annual
precipitation, roughly 1,016 millimetres (about 40 inches) occurs during the
monsoon season, which begins in the first week of November, though we do not
really visit this region and so are largely unaffected by this monsoon. The
hills and lowlands of the south-west section normally have some rainfall
throughout the year, with the heaviest occurring in May and June and again in
October and November.
Because of its location near the equator, Sri Lanka has a hot and humid
climate. At the higher elevations, however, the climate is cool; the humidity
is relatively lower in the northern and central parts of the country. The
average annual temperature is 32ºC (90ºF) in the lowlands and 21ºC (70ºF)
in the higher mountainous regions, though it can get chilly in the hill
country at night.
Daypack
Cycling shorts and gloves
Stiff-soled shoes (not running shoes)
Lightweight waterproof jacket
Sunglasses/eye protection
Strong sun cream
Water bottles
Insect repellent
Torch
Light cotton trousers
Lightweight long sleeved shirt
Fleece or sweater
Cycling helmet (compulsory on this trip)
There will be plenty of opportunities to get laundry done locally at a very
affordable price so it’s fine to pack light.
Pocket binoculars
Electrolytes
*Local Bike Details:* Ghost Kato 3 AL mountain bikes with front suspension.
*Discount for bringing your own bike:* £150.
*Ebike**s:* Electric bikes are available to hire for the week. This is on
request only for £220 to cover the duration of the trip.
For meals not included we recommend allowing around 150 GBP (approx. 200
USD).
All entrance fees and activities described above are included except for the
optional activities mentioned on some days. It is recommended that you allow
at least 5 GBP (7 USD) per day for personal expenditure such as stamps,
postcards and soft drinks. Shopping opportunities throughout this tour are
endless and we suggest that you take money for souvenirs - even if you are
generally not a keen shopper we have found that most people succumb to some
of the wide variety of handicrafts on offer.
*Optional Excursions (approximate costs, depending on group sizes)*
*Whale Watching* – please note if you choose to enjoy this excursion on
your free day we strongly advise booking a private charter boat through your
leader. The more members of the group who wish to join the charter the more
cost effective it will be. We do not recommend the larger, commercial boats,
they may be cheaper but they do not always respect the welfare of the animals
or operate in an environmentally responsible way. We have also had reports of
overcrowding on the boats. Please ask your leader for further details on how
to book a private charter. Whale watching is only possible between November
– April.
The whale watching trip by private boat should cost between 40 and 80 GBP
(approx. 50-100 USD) per person depending on the number of participants.
Tipping is a way of life in Sri Lanka. To simplify tipping of hotel staff,
toilet attendants, porters and bus drivers etc., your tour leader may, with
the approval of the group, collect a kitty to cover this and also to pay for
snacks and drinks bought along the way.
In addition (entirely at your discretion), a tip for your leader/s at the end
of the trip is greatly appreciated if you are happy with the service you have
received. As a guideline we recommend about 3 GBP (4 USD) per day for tips
to split between them.
* Travel insurance
* Single accommodation (available on request)
* Airport transfers (for land only bookings)
* Visas or vaccinations
Ved skriftlig aksept av vårt tilbud bekrefter du/dere at våre betingelser er både lest og forstått og at evt kansellerings gebyrer kan tilkomme ved en evt. avbestilling av reisen.
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