Inland Bicycle Trails

Sri Lanka’s beach-blessed coastline is a major draw for many visitors to the island, however, its enigmatic rural interior is every bit as appealing. Oceans of paddy fields fringed by coconut palms, local villages, tea estates, ancient temples and lush jungle all form part of a rich tropical countryside that lies less than a kilometre inland from the coast. The habitat is home to an assortment of wildlife, from exotic birds such as electric blue kingfishers that gaze down at you from overhead telephone cables, mynas, hummingbirds, and peacocks, to stealthy monitor lizards and scuttling mongooses.

One of the best ways to explore these picturesque surroundings and to cover a decent amount of ground is to take a guided bicycle ride. We work with Idle Bikes, an agency that have established guided bicycle adventures in inland Galle. The team have researched a number of routes of varying lengths and terrains, and have been designed to take you on quiet roads and back lanes so that the experience is safe and enjoyable.

The classic Paddy Trail,suitable for all ages, is a gentle 12km loop which passes through a bird sanctuary and fields of paddy. The Paddy and Lake Trail is an extended version for adventurous cyclists who wish to push themselves a bit more. The 26km ride includes cycling along the shoreline of Koggala Lake and its cinnamon plantations. The Hiyare Hill Climb is a 41km journey devised for avid cyclists. The route starts with a climb to the pristine Hiyare Lake Nature Reserve before descending back to the beach through the paddy fields via Koggala Lake. There will be various stops along the way depending on your route (a visit to the Yatagala Temple) as well as refreshing thambili (king coconut water) hydration breaks. The bikes are good quality lightweight mountain bikes and are available in different sizes to suit all guests. The team also has children’s bikes and baby seats; please let us know in advance if these are required. The guides have waterproof handlebar bags on their bikes which they use to safely carry items such as phones and sunscreen.

Bicycles, helmets, and refreshments are included in the rate.