Negombo - Anuradhapura - Trincomalee - Kolkudah - Polonnaruwa - Sigiriya - Kandy - Dickoya - Galle - Mirissa - Tangalle - Tissa - Ella - Haputale - Horton Plains - Nuwara Eliya - Southcoast (Total 1940km)

Sri Lanka is a small island in the Indian Ocean with a great biodiversity and changes of landscape. Along the westcoast you can see the life of fishermen in their villages and how the bring in their nets. Also worthwile is a visit of the ancient cities, showing sculptures, paintings, writings on stone, buddhas and pagodas.

Through paddy fields, tropical vegetation and jungle, passing coconut palms and many artificial lakes we cycle up to the highlands. Wherever you travel you will see an immense amount of birds; waterbirds, peacocks, eagles, parrots, hummingbirds. But also plentyful monkeys, giant squirrels, chipmunks, moongoose, monitor lizards and very often the dung of the many wild elephants. In the higher elevations one reaches the endless and very beautiful hills with planted tee bushes, criss-crossed with creeks and waterfalls and great views. And the beaches in the east and the south (for us was Tangalle the most fantastic place, especially because we stayed at the friendly and clean Shehani Guesthouse run by a very lovable family), are inviting to spend some relaxing time.

Cycling in Sri Lanka is very pleasant, especially on small roads. Not to recommend is only the coastal road with too much traffic, tuktuks, crazy bus drivers and dogs sleeping on the road. For sure is Sri Lanka the friendliest country you can imagine to cycle; the people are amiable, helpful and always ready for a smile. Astonishing after the long civil war and the tragedy of tsunami.