North Cycle Tour in Sri Lanka (14 Days)
Book this Package now, just for FREE, and be pampered with the fascination of the island with Next Travel Sri Lanka. We assure you of the perfect exploration, with the comforts you desire. Need more additions? Yes, you can even plan your holiday to suit your true favours with our Tailor-Made Tour Packages! We are always here to assist you in planning the best holiday. Simply contact us, if you have any doubts about this package, tailor-made tour packages, or the bookings.
Book With Flexibility Number of Days: 14
From Colombo to Colombo
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Max Group Size 20 |
Private Tour Available |
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Physical Rating Active |
Age Range 18 to 65 |
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Operated In English |
Tour ID NTD2018 |
From $890, Price varies by group size
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Places and Experiences
The Gigantic Sigiriya Rock Fortress that stands with Majesty
The Gigantic Sigiriya Rock Fortress that stands with Majesty
The Beauty of Nilaveli Beach and its Surroundings at Trincomalee
The Beauty of Nilaveli Beach and its Surroundings at Trincomalee
Whale Watching
Going on a Whale Watching Tour at Trincomalee
Tamil Food in Jaffna
Jaffna’s Signature Crab Curry
Tamil Culture in Jaffna
The Unique Tamil Culture at Jaffna
Sigiriya Frescoes
Sigiriya Frescoes
Nilaveli
Sunset at Nilaveli, Trincomalee
Nagadeepa Temple
Nagadeepa Temple in Jaffna
Minneriya National Park
A Herd of Elephants at Minneriya National Park
Koneswaram Temple
The Statue by the Sea at the Koneswaram Hindu Temple
Jaffna
The Ancient Jaffna Fort
Delft Island
The Coral Walls at the Delft Island in Jaffna
Map
Highlights
Relaxing at Negombo
Enjoying a Picnic Lunch
Food Crawls in Sri Lankan Cities
Cycling around the City of Anuradhapura
Visiting the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
Observing the Ruins in AnuradhapuraVisiting the Archeological Museum in Anuradhapura
Enjoying a Train Ride to Jaffna
Exploring the City of Jaffna
Enjoying a Boat Ride to the Delft Island
Visiting the Temple of Nagadeepa
Exploring the City of Trincomalee
Whale Watching at Nilaveli
Visiting the Koneswaram Temple
Visiting the Pigeon Island
Snorkelling
Visiting Naval Headworks Sanctuary
Climbing the Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Visiting the Dambulla Cave Temple
Visiting the Nalanda Gedige
City Tour in Colombo
Itinerary
The first destination of this wonderful tour on this splendid island would be Negombo, the scenic town, located on the West Coast of Sri Lanka. However, there are no special plans set for this day, except for the ‘Welcome Meeting’ that would take place at 5.30 p.m on the eve. So, if you arrive early, you have ample opportunities to relax by the charming shores of Negombo or to explore the delight of the neighbouring countryside by bicycle. The reception of your hotel would help you with these activities.
Note: By chance, if you are unable to arrive in Sri Lanka, at a time prior to the Welcome Meeting on this day, you have the opportunity to arrive a day earlier. We would be pleased to arrange your accommodation for this day, considering the availability. However, make sure that you inform the hotel reception if you are getting late to the Welcome Meeting. Also, don’t forget to have with you the insurance details and next of kin information when you attend this meeting.
The second day would begin with a delicious breakfast, and then, we would begin our cycle ride from the coasts of Negombo, with the intention of arriving at Mahawewa (approximately 35 km) by the afternoon. This cycle ride is to assure you of some of the best experiences, as you would be passing the fishing villages, the scenic Dutch canal, coconut plantations, various tile factories, and the bustling city streets. After enjoying a wonderful picnic lunch at Mahawewa, we would begin our travel in our support vehicle. Our plan is to arrive at Anuradhapura (140 km approximately), the ancient city of Sri Lanka. Upon arriving at your hotel in Anuradhapura, you have the evening hours to sit and relax. And why not? A 'food crawl' through the vibrant streets of this wonderful ancient city would also provide you with the perfect ending for the day!
The third day of this tour is dedicated to exploring the delight of the ancient city of Anuradhapura. You’ll get to enjoy a cycling tour around the significant attractions of this wonderful town. Of course, they are situated 20km away or thereabouts. You will be guided throughout the trip. First, you would get a chance to pay a visit to the sacred Bo Tree, which is known to be the most sacred attraction of Buddhists. At the same time, the substantial buildings of Anuradhapura will amaze your eyes. These archaeological ruins are laid out over a vast area. Apart from observing these attractions, dropping by the Anuradhapura museum would also enhance the delight of this trip. Soon after enjoying a delicious lunch, you will return to the hotel again. Then you can ease up the whole afternoon at your heart’s core!
The fourth day of this tour promises you a unique experience, as we would be heading to the North part of the island. You would get to experience a train trip to captivating Jaffna city. As you might already know, this city was shut for visitors during the civil war. However, following the end of this thirty-year war, the city is now growing strong with its own shades, opening it for visitors from all around the world. And yes, it still exhibits the unique vibrancy of the Hindu culture. In fact, if you observe the streets with life, and the food of this city meticulously you could surely notice what we say! Besides, the remains from the colonial era, bustling markets, attractive beaches, and the wonderful cultural attractions that you see in this city would further magnify the delight of your visit.
On the fifth day, you’ll get to experience a cycling trip at the crack of dawn from Jaffna City to the Kurikadduwan Jetty which is known to be the jump-off point to the closeby islands. And during this city exploration, you can enjoy a boat trip to the charming Delft Island, which got its name during the Dutch colonisation. Besides, the limestone and coral Portuguese/ Dutch fort, the free meandering wild horses, and the dilapidations of the three ancient stupas that you observe during the trip will surely remind you of the colonial legacy. Following this exploration, you can relax a bit on the island of Nainativu and visit Nagadeepa temple on foot. Finally, we would head back to the City of Janna in our vehicle
On the sixth day of this tour, you will head to Trincomalee, another beautiful coastal town that attracts many. However, this ride itself would offer you some wonderful experiences. You would depart Jaffna and encounter cycling for approximately 40 km to the south through the Sangupiddy Bridge. Then you would continue your ride to the Pooneryn town and get a vehicle to reach the delightful coastal city of Trincomalee. It will take approximately 3-4 hours for this trip. And while exploring the charm of Trincomalee, you would certainly visit Nilaveli, one of the finest shores on this splendid island. And something interesting! If you visit Nilaveli from March to August, you would get the opportunity to enjoy a perfect whale-watching experience as well. Also, a visit to the Koneswaram Temple, located on the fringe of an ocean cliff, would be a significant highlight on this day!
The seventh day of this tour is dedicated to easing up your fatigued cycling legs amidst the pleasant surroundings of Trincomalee. Even though we do not have any special plans for the day, you can choose to visit Pigeon Island and take a snorkelling trip through the clear waters out there. This area belongs to one of the marine national parks in Sri Lanka as well, and the coral reefs underwater are sure to amuse your eyes with their sight
This day takes you towards Central Sri Lanka. In fact, you would be heading to Dambulla which is one of the most religious cities in Sri Lanka. The trip would begin with a cycling ride to the Naval Headworks Sanctuary, a forty thousand acres massive forest with rich biodiversity. Following this visit, you would then head to Habarana, to visit a wonderful land of greenery located by the Minneriya National Park. It takes only 1.5 hours or thereabouts. Afterward, you would reach Dambulla where you would be enjoying the evening hours
On the ninth day of this tour, you would get to experience a cycling trip to the captivating ancient Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Throughout this trip, you will get the chance to witness the beauty of the lavish growth of vegetation, as well as the village life. Then the hike to the top of the rock of Sigiriya would begin. The mirror wall out there, the Sigiriya frescoes, and the ruins of the ancient palace are sure to amuse you. After reaching the top of this rock, you could take a good rest and glimpse the beautiful surroundings. Following this wonderful exploration, you can get back to your bicycle, and ride through the village again, observing the charm that it offers. At the end of the day, you’ll get a chance to pay a visit to Dambulla wholesale vegetable market to end your day in the most perfect way!
This day would begin with a visit to the Dambulla cave temple, the best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. There are five caves out there, and observing the ancient murals, statues, and paintings that they house, are sure to amaze you. Following this wonderful exploration, you would begin your trip to reach the small town of Nalanda on the shores of the Bowatenna Reservoir. Of course, this town is not very popular, yet it houses the ruins from the ancient stone structure that belong to the Nalanda Gedige Temple. This place is also known as the centre of Sri Lanka. Hence, visiting this place will surely offer you a memorable experience!
Of course, the eleventh day of this tour is more interesting! On this day, you would be heading to the sacred city of Kandy. The ride would be approximately 40 km, and during this trip, you would be passing scenic surroundings and pleasing village areas. However, as you reach Rattota town, it would be better to use the service vehicle to reach the prehistoric ‘Regal’ city of Kandy, to keep away from the traffic jam. Kandy is surrounded by soaring hills and centred on the calm Kandy lake, and thus, would welcome you with perfect views
On the twelfth of this tour, you would be able to spend some quality time around the sacred city of Kandy. After having your brunch you could either experience a self-contained cycle to Hanthana Mountain range or roam around Kandy city to take a good look. Next, in the morning you would be able to encounter a guided journey to a tea factory at Giragama. It will take approximately 15 km to reach there. Out there, you would get a chance to get to know about Sri Lanka’s finest prominent beverages, and it is sure to be a wonderful experience. And yes, if you are lucky enough, you would even get the chance to taste samples of some flavoursome varieties from this tea factory. The afternoon hours are free for you to ease yourselves. Then in the evening, you’ll pay a visit to the most important sacred ‘Temple of Tooth Relic’. Afterward, you can explore the city limits, and hunt for some Sri Lankan food, before you arrive at the hotel for dinner!
Following breakfast on this day, you would head to Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka. Upon arriving at the hotel in Colombo, you have ample opportunities to explore the delight of this vibrant city. During this city tour, you would be visiting the bustling Pettah Bazaar, Independence Square, Parliament, and the National Museum. Your stroll would end at the Barefoot fair trade store and this visit is to create opportunities to buy anything that you like. In Particular, you could find a collection of delightful handicrafts from every side of the country that reveals to you the grandeur of the traditional arts and crafts. Later in the night, you can enjoy the last group dinner to celebrate the delight of this wonderful journey. You could have it from the city’s tempting market stalls.
This wonderful tour in Sri Lanka would reach the end on this day. After all, we believe that this tour package features the best of the island, satisfying the true flavors. Besides, if you prefer to make your dream trip in Sri Lanka a reality, in exactly the way your heart desires, we are here to offer you tailor-made tour packages as well. Contact us for more information.
Happy and Safe Travelling!
What is included
Let it be a stay by the golden stretches, a chill amidst the cool breeze, or a holiday surrounded by the lush greenery! Whatever your heart desires, the wide array of star-class hotels in Sri Lanka are ready to cater to you. And this tour includes accommodation in hotels (12 nights), and a guesthouse (1 night). Please note that while all hotels on this trip have fans, not all will have air conditioning.
Of course, there is so much on this island to explore, and getting around this country is not an issue at all! Throughout this tour, you would be experiencing various transportation modes, including the bicycle (e-bike option available, subject to availability), support vehicle, train, and boat. Your main luggage is transported in the support vehicle
Dishes in Sri Lanka are a true delight! Hence, you should never miss a chance to experience the authenticity and the exclusivity of the mouth-watering Sri Lankan tastes. However, this package offers you 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 5 dinners. Yet, you have nothing to worry about the rest of the meals because our representatives would help you arrange the meals upon request. Further, any of the Sri Lankan hotels/restaurants would allow you to choose among the below selections, for each of your main meals.
Also, please note that these are the general food items that any of the hotels would offer you, and there may be a wide variety of additional dishes depending on the hotel you dine at.
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It is true that one can visit the attractions on this island on their own. Still, let us assure you that having a travel guide makes your journey more wonderful, and stress-free. In fact, they know about this island like the back of their hands. They are capable of enlightening you about each and every place you visit. Going beyond, they would turn out to be a companion of yours, inspired with a passion to fulfil your expectations on this beautiful island. Hence, we make sure to provide you with the service of an experienced cycling leader
We recommend you have travel insurance to enjoy yourself more and travel stress-free on this paradise island of Sri Lanka. Yet, insurance is NOT INCLUDED in our tour packages. Tourists are responsible for choosing the insurance packages that suit them the most and getting themselves insured. You can arrange the travel insurance through an agent of your choice.
Of course, you will be provided with accommodation. Still, it is up to the travellers to bear personal expenses for pre and post-tour accommodation. Further, the travellers should bear their cost for anything that is not mentioned in the Itinerary, such as the rest of the meals, alcoholic/non-alcoholic drinks, snacks, visa fees, tips, and portage, etc.
You may need to pay an entrance fee to visit some of the attractions in Sri Lanka. However, it is a must note that this package does not include any entrance fee unless specified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Grabbing out the best essence out of a wonderful holiday destination indeed requires a good plan. Yet, proper planning surely requires a good knowledge about the destination as well. In that case, you will certainly need a helping hand to know more about what to expect, how to get ready, and mostly, to clear out your doubts. However, as an experienced team working close to the hearts of our travelers, we clearly understand what troubles your mind, and your desire to travel with peace of mind. Thus, we have answered the most frequently asked questions, so that you can easily clear out your doubts just in a second. So, why not? Have a look at the section below, and we are sure that we have answered your question!
Abided by the new normal, Sri Lanka is now open for tourists after the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, quarantine measures are different for vaccinated and unvaccinated tourists
Completing two weeks upon receiving the recommended doses of COVID-19 vaccinations will make you begin traveling on the island sooner. Apart from that, Sri Lanka requires no mandatory vaccinations before arrival.
The natural marvels of the island nation Sri Lanka, which includes the golden shores, charming cascades, scenic landscapes, and diverse wildlife are indeed capable of attracting any tourist. Besides, its rich cultural heritage, delightful festivals, pleasant climate, exclusive cuisines, and extensive range of facilities for affordable prices, simply make tourists go to Sri Lanka, at any time of the year.
Tourists are only permitted to get to Sri Lanka, by air.
Yes, of course! If you are arriving in Sri Lanka for a holiday, for medical treatments, or to take part in an event, you will require a Tourist Visa.
Any foreigner who plans to arrive in Sri Lanka should obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) through http://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/. The website also contains a full guide on obtaining the ETA, along with the payment details.
The Visa is valid for 30 days.
Yes, you can. Still, you have to apply for a visa extension, before your current visa expires. All you have to do is collect the visa extension form from the Head Office of the Department of Immigration and Emigration (You can also download the form from here), and submit the duly filled application, along with the following.
- Return Air Ticket
- Details of the place of accommodation
- The application along with a photograph of the applicant
It is always better to have your National Identity Card, and Passport with you when travelling around the island.
In brief, Sri Lanka is a year-round destination. Thus, it always has something to do and somewhere to visit on this island. Still, it is always better to choose a time where the monsoon rains do not impact the area you plan to visit in Sri Lanka. This complete overview of the weather and climate of Sri Lanka, and the official website of the Department of Meteorology, Sri Lanka will help you with regard.
You can either use public transportation which includes the bus and train services. If not, you can even hire a taxi, a tuk-tuk, or hire a vehicle to drive yourself.
Sri Lanka Rupees (SLR) is the currency used in Sri Lanka.
Not really! If you are using public transportation, enjoying meals from budget restaurants, and taking accommodation at budget hotels, you can experience the holiday at your heart’s core, at a low budget. Thus, the cost depends upon your choices. Still, a holiday in Sri Lanka is simply cheaper than many other tourist destinations across the world.
The best is to wear comfortable materials, preferable cotton, linen, or rayon since Sri Lanka is warm most of the time. Besides, if you are visiting a religious place, the best is to wear something light colour that covers from your shoulders to your knees, to blend with the culture there. Besides, having a shawl will help you to cover yourself in instances where your attire is inappropriate to visit such a place.
As long as you are travelling in a populated area it is safe to travel alone in Sri Lanka. Still, if you are a female travelling alone, the best is to wear an attire that covers your body, and also, wearing a fake wedding ring, acting familiar, etc. will help you avoid unnecessary hassles. However, the best is to avoid night rides, and use google location if you are travelling alone!
Most can! Still, some locals would only be familiar with Sinhala and Tamil languages. However, hand signals will help you in instances as such.
- Simply, cultural and religious values run through the veins of Sri Lankans. So, never disrespect any religion. Avoid posing with funny actions at religious sites. Besides, dresses or tattoos with religious slogans or images might pave the way for unnecessary disturbances.
- Avoid public nudity and kissing.
- Never take photographs without permission.
Good to Know
The delight of a Sri Lankan holiday needs no further exaggerations. Its natural splendors, pleasant weather and climate, welcoming smiles of Sri Lankans, and every other bit of this wonderful paradise are surely going to enchant anyone who visits it. Still, in order to witness the true delight of this wonderful destination, knowing a few more things would certainly benefit you. Keep calm, and have a look below. They will help you make the most out of your time on this splendid island nation!
Electricity is not an issue in the present, especially around tourist hotspots. It is true that some extremely rural areas still lack this facility. Still, we can assure you that those areas are out of the tourist zones.
However, Sri Lanka operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50 Hz. Hence, be mindful of bringing compatible devices or voltage converters. Besides, it is always better to have with you a power bank, rechargeable lamp, etc. because emergency power cuts could occur once in a while.
As you might already know, Sri Lankan Rupees is the currency used in Sri Lanka. The best would be to bring USDs with you and then to exchange them for the local currency once you arrive. Doing so will offer you opportunities to get better exchange rates as well. Besides, Mastercards and Visa Cards are widely accepted, while American Express Cards are also often accepted. Still, it is always better to have cash in hand, since most of the local boutiques around tourist attractions do not have the facilities to accept credit cards.
Also, ATMs are available islandwide. Still, not all of them accept international cards. The daily transaction limit usually ranges between SLR 100,000 to SLR 200,000 and a transaction fee is imposed upon every transaction. Moreover, banks are open on weekdays from 9 AM to 3 PM and closed on weekends. Still, some main cities have a few banks that are open 24/7, or either till night hours.
Of course, telecommunication facilities are available almost island-wide, except for the extremely rural areas. If you are planning to stay connected during your trip to Sri Lanka, the best would be to buy a local sim since the mobile service providers here offer perfect tourist plans that would simply save you money. Also, buying a sim in Sri Lanka is not that hard. You can buy one easily from the airport premises, or the outlets islandwide.
As you already know, Sri Lanka holds accommodation facilities that cover an extensive range. Starting with the Home Stays, Guest Houses, Bungalows, to Medium-Scale Hotels, and Super-Luxury Hotels, this paradise island has it all. Of course, the price might vary upon your selections and the facilities they offer. Still, accommodation facilities are indeed cheaper in Sri Lanka, when compared with tourist destinations worldwide.
However, some of the Home-stays, Guesthouses, and Bungalows might not have AC and hot water facilities. Hence, if you are concerned with regard, it is always better to ask about these little things before placing your bookings. Besides, finding accommodation during the off-season might not be that hard. Still, it is always best to hunt for accommodation a few days earlier, just to travel with pace in mind.
Discovering the unique flavours of Sri Lankan Food, seafood, and cultural dishes would simply be a delightful experience that you can ever imagine! Let it be the luxurious hotels that offer you both local and international cuisine, and the small boutiques or the street stalls that amaze you with their mouth-watering tastes, all of them are impressive beyond words. However, local dishes might be a bit spicy. Thus, it is always better to inform the cook earlier, if you prefer less spicy food. Besides, the cost of food in Sri Lanka highly varies depending on the place you choose to dine, and the dishes you select.
Photography and videography are not forbidden in Sri Lanka. Still, make sure you request permission, especially if you are capturing locals, their boutiques, or their houses. Besides, never turn your back to religious statues, or pose with them with funny poses, since Sri Lanka is a country backed with strong cultural values. Also, whenever you visit a religious or a cultural attraction, or a museum, make sure to check for notices. Photography and videography are strictly prohibited in certain places, and using the flasher is strictly prohibited in some sites with historical paintings, and murals. Going beyond, photography and videography in some places require prior permission or payments. Hence, making memories is always fine, yet, it is always better to be mindful of the restrictions. And yes, your travel guide will simply help you with these concerns!
As you might already know, Sri Lanka is a country with a rich cultural heritage. Thus, we encourage you to follow the below ethics when visiting religious places in Sri Lanka.
- Most religious places encourage visitors to wear a light colour attire that covers their body, shoulder to knees. Thus, if you are visiting a religious place, make sure that you do not wear shorts, crop tops, skinnies, etc. Also, having a shawl with you will help you cover your body at such times, in order to blend with the culture there.
- Visitors enter the religious place barefoot and caps, hats, scarfs, etc. are removed before entering the site.
- The tranquillity of the religious places in Sri Lanka is simply impressive. Hence, make sure you mind your behaviour.
Indeed, safety is first! So, it is always better to keep an eye on animals, especially on the stray dogs on the roads. Be mindful when feeding them, or touching them. And by chance, if a stray dog or any other animal bit you, make sure you arrive at the nearest government hospital, and they will make sure to treat you accordingly.
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