Cost per PersonUS$ 1160

Based on a minimum of 2 people travelling

Tour Overview

This walking and cycling holiday explores the central heartlands of Sri Lanka. Starting from the spice district in the plains, the trip moves into hill country. The route is off the normal tourist track. You walk through spice plantations, teak forests and tea estates. The cycling is on back roads. The guides work in the plantations in the area and this trip supplements their income.  

Walking and Cycling in Remote Sri Lanka

On arrival, we will meet you at the airport and drive to Pallepola (3.5hrs). Spend some time to relax after your flight. We can then warm up our legs by riding through the nearby canal roads. For the culinary inclined, visit the kitchen and learn from the resident cook on how to prepare a delicious Sri Lankan meal.

Hiking Distance: 13kms
Terrain: Flat


After an early breakfast we transfer (30mins) to the small village of Andawala which is the trail head. Before setting of we will say a prayer and receive the blessing of the monks at the Andawala Buddhist Temple. Our hike starts of through tiny village paths and then leading across small paddy farms. We will walk along tiny irrigation streams for the first 2kms before turning off into the forest. We continue our journey through patches of forest interspaced with pepper farms till we reach the village of Hanguranketa. Here we take a short break and refill our bottles before the next stretch. The remaining hike is on tiny jeep paths till we reach the forest bungalow whose surrounding lawns will be our campsite for the night. Around the campfire we can listen to local folk songs with a hot cup of tea in our hands.

Hiking Distance: 15kms
Terrain: Undulating


Today we head to Riverston, known for its beautiful vistas of Sri Lankan Hill Country. Our hike starts from the remote Gammaduwa village. We start climbing uphill through pine forests and get onto the only trail to the extremely remote Kargastene village. This remote village is completely isolated and supports only a small farming family. From here the scenery completely changes and we hike across a large grass land for a few kilometers before heading back into the jungle. Our route crosses small reservoirs and streams before we reach the village of Puwakpitiya where we stop for lunch. A lunch that you will need to help cook! A nearby waterfall is a great place to go for a small swim before the next stretch of our arduous journey. From the village we need to climb through the forests to reach Riverston. Our path takes us through dense jungles that sometimes host elephants. We come out of the jungle in front of the famous Mini World’s End. The last stretch is on jeep trails up until the main road.

Hiking Distance: 16kms
Terrain: Undulating


Today’s trail head is from the village of Rathkinda situated at the base of the elephant shaped rock “Manigala”. The trail is through stepped paddy fields and forest canopy. The biodiversity of the Knuckles mountain range is on display. Butterflies, birds and flowers are on display. The total hike is 16kms.

Cycling Distance: 65kms
Terrain: Undulating downhill


A beautiful day of cycling (65kms). The route is mainly downhill through remote back roads. Start with the winding roads snaking through Knuckles heading east till we reach the plains. Then cycle along the Mahaweli  River and the smaller tributaries as well as the paddy fields that are irrigated by them.

Cycling Distance: 20kms
Terrain: Flat


Today is a day of cycling and walking. Cycle 20kms to the village of Hasalaka. The village has put together an interesting program which we like to patronise. Start with a herbal drink, followed by a walk through the village to a nearby waterfall. Explore your surroundings, ask questions and understand how life works here. When hungry return to the village to enjoy a freshly made lunch cooked from ingredients all grown locally. We then cycle back to our hotel in Mahiyangana.

Transfer Distance: 90kms (stop when you want)

Today we cycle to Kandy (55kms). Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha. Kandy is a city that sleeps, that’s why our food walk start at 6PM. We start at the iconic Royal Bar. Try out the local Arrack and bites to set the tone before heading out for some gluttony. Egg rotis, fresh hoppers and the best Kothu are up for grabs. Our charismatic host will regale you with stories about Kandy while you indulge in the many food options on the walk.

We transfer you to the airport in time for your return flight.

Inclusions

  • Delicious food in the spicey heartlands of Sri Lanka
  • Beautiful Colonial Bungalows
  • Walk through stunning spice plantations and paddy
  • Swim in refreshing waterfalls
  • Hike to famed Manigala Rock through the biodiversity of Knuckles Range
  • Scenic winding cycling roads
  • Village explorations
  • Revered Temple of the Tooth in Kandy

Route Maps

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the type of terrain we trek through?

 Depending on your itinerary the terrain varies. The terrain can be mountainous in Knuckles to deep forests at places like Meemure. There are also walks on flat surfaces at historical sites.

Do we need a VISA ?

Yes, visitors to Sri Lanka must obtain a Visa before departure.

Are E-bikes provided for this tour?

Yes, e-bikes are provided for the tour.

Do we need to get our sleeping bags, tents etc..?

 If your itinerary involves camping, we provide all camping materials like sleeping bags, tents, liners, air pillows.

What about our main luggage?

 We will take of your luggage & will reach you at your day’s camp. Carry only a day bag with your papers and valuables.

What kind of food do you serve?

  Local Sri Lankan cuisine. However most meal preferences can be catered to if you give us enough notice.

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