The size of Sri Lanka makes it extremely accessible by bike
and a two-wheel adventure is a great way to view the country’s
beautiful landscapes. Hear the birds tweet as you cruise along
the Horton Plains or a jungle path, take a pedal back in time
in the ruins of the ancient cities at Polunnaruwa and Anuradhapura,
or try a relaxing route along the beaches on the south-west
coast.
The circuit at the Sigiriya rock fortress, built in the 5th
century, is particularly rewarding and the Kandy to Knuckles
mountain range trail is also stunning - and can be extended
by going on to Nuwara Eliya and the Horton Plains - but dodging
the potholes on the country roads leading through tea and rubber
plantations is also strangely satisfying.
However, nothing beats laying your helmet on the table of a
tea house and spending the next hour reflecting on the beauty
of the ride: the stunning vistas on the mountain trail; the
section with only the jungle and silence as riding companions;
or the beautiful Indian Ocean sunset.
The terrain throughout the country offers challenges for beginners
and experts. On some of the steep sections in the hill country
you will feel like you’re in a mountain stage of the tour
de France as the villagers cheer the final metres of your ascent.
They may then welcome you with a warm smile and a cool drink
as you catch your breath.
The development of a new National Cycling Trail is now well
underway, with the first stretch now open, a 240km Southern
Coastal Route along quiet interior dirt tracks from Wadduwa
on the west coast to Koggala to the south.
The paths cut across some of island's most verdant countryside,
through rubber estates and marshlands, with the chance to see
a profusion of bird and wildlife, ancient temples and gardens.
The route is split into eight easily-manageable sections, each
around 12-20miles, and there are also circular routes designed
for travellers staying in west or south coast hotels.
Other trails are also being set up -- through the hill country,
cultural triangle and the beautiful Sabaragamuwa province, the
heart of the wet zone. It is possible to add a couple
of cycling days to tours and accommodation is at resthouses
or hotels. The best tip is to get your riding out of the day
early to avoid the heat. Then you can use the afternoon to
sightsee or relax in preparation for another amazing day. |
