Journey in the Tropical Pearl
A scenic loop traversing through misty hills, ancient kingdoms, and tropical shores.
A 10-day journey blends history, nature, and relaxation as you loop through ancient cities, scenic tea country, and pristine tropical shores. Whether you’re drawn to heritage, nature, or the sheer joy of the open road, this tour offers the perfect mix of adventure and downtime—with handpicked stays, scenic riding, and a support team that takes care of every detail.
10 Days / 9 Nights
Royal Enfield Classic 350
80% Paved / 20% Bumpy
Intermediate level
823 Km
Highlights
- Ride Through the Knuckles Range and the 18 Bends
- Tea Country & Factory Visit
- Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- Sacred City of Anuradhapura by Motorcycle
- Chance to Spot Wild Elephants
- Ride Along Rural Lakes and Backroads
- Relax at the stunning Nilaveli Beach
Dates & Prices
3* & 4* Hotels & Resorts - Twin-Sharing
14th -23rd August 2026
26th August – 4th September 2026
Rider US $2,850
Pillion US $1,650
Single Supplement US $400
Note: This tour can be organized upon request for groups of 4 or more participants.
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Itinerary
Please note that distances and durations are approximate and do not account for breaks or guided tours of sites, parks, and monuments, only the actual riding time.
Day 1 - Negombo
Our representative will greet you in the airport lobby and arrange your transfer to a beachfront hotel conveniently close to the airport. In the evening, meet your fellow riders and the team for a briefing over drinks, followed by a welcome dinner to kick off your adventure.
Day 2 - Nuwara Eliya
Your journey begins by leaving the coastal plains of Negombo behind and heading inland toward the lush highlands of Sri Lanka. The first stretch takes you through bustling towns and rural villages, with glimpses of rubber plantations lining the road—a reminder of the island’s colonial past and its deep agricultural roots.
As you gain elevation, the landscape transforms. The air gets cooler, and the scenery becomes increasingly scenic with terraced tea plantations carpeting the hillsides in every shade of green. The roads, though initially a bit busy and occasionally bumpy, soon open up into smooth and winding hill country routes—a rider’s dream.
Midway through the journey, you’ll stop for a local lunch and stretch your legs amidst misty valleys and panoramic viewpoints. If the skies are clear, keep an eye out for a special surprise: the iconic silhouette of Adam’s Peak in the distance, a revered mountain that has inspired pilgrims for centuries.
By mid-afternoon, you’ll arrive in Nuwara Eliya, the charming hill town once favored by British planters. With its colonial-era architecture, cool climate, and peaceful atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to unwind after your first full day on the road.
- Distance: 156 Km
- Duration: 4.5 Hrs
Day 3 - Kandy
After a relaxed breakfast in the crisp mountain air of Nuwara Eliya, we set off on a shorter but highly scenic ride toward Kandy. The route is a rider’s dream, with winding roads cutting through emerald tea plantations and lush forested hillsides—perfect for enjoying the rhythm of the road and the beauty of Sri Lanka’s hill country.
In the morning, we’ll stop at a tea factory for a guided visit that walks you through the full tea-making process. See traditional techniques in action, learn about the grades and flavors of Ceylon tea, and enjoy a tasting session surrounded by the very hills where it’s grown.
As we descend toward the central region, we avoid the urban chaos by taking a less-traveled route through quiet villages, forest patches, and more rolling tea estates. This scenic diversion keeps us off the main roads and offers one last dose of peaceful highland riding before reaching our hotel, located just a few kilometers outside the city.
In the early afternoon, we switch gears and hop into tuk-tuks for a guided walk in Kandy. Explore the vibrant central market and visit the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage site that holds immense spiritual significance for Buddhists around the world.
We’ll end the day with a group dinner in town, soaking in the local flavors and sharing stories from the road.
- Distance: 97 Km
- Duration: 4 Hrs
Day 4 - Sigiriya
Today’s ride is one of the most adventurous and varied of the journey—an early start sets us on course for a full day on the road, with landscapes shifting dramatically from highland tea estates to dry-zone wilderness and ancient kingdoms.
We begin by leaving Kandy behind and heading into the southern reaches of the Knuckles Mountain Range, riding along quiet backroads that weave through remote tea plantations and mist-covered hills. It’s a serene and invigorating stretch that quickly reminds us why Sri Lanka is such a gem for two-wheeled travel.
Eventually, we rejoin the main road to take on the legendary 18 Bends—a thrilling downhill ride that snakes its way through forested slopes, offering exhilarating views and curves that keep every rider focused and smiling.
Once in the lowlands, we pass Mahiyanganaya, and soon take another scenic detour that skirts the edge of Maduru Oya National Park. This lesser-known region offers raw, untouched nature, and with a bit of luck, we might catch sight of wild elephants wandering through the brush or crossing the open plains.
As the day winds down, we roll through Polonnaruwa, the second great capital of ancient Sri Lanka, with its grand ruins just off the main road—a powerful reminder of the country’s glorious past. From there, it’s a short final ride to our hotel near Sigiriya, where a well-earned rest awaits beneath the shadow of the iconic rock fortress.
- Distance: 232 Km
- Duration: 6 Hrs
Day 5 - Trincomalee
We start the day early—but not on two wheels just yet. This morning, we leave the bikes at the hotel and set out on foot to conquer one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks: the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, also known as Lion Rock. Be prepared for a climb of around 1,200 steps, but every bit of effort is rewarded with breathtaking views, ancient frescoes, and the impressive ruins of a 5th-century palace perched on top of the rock.
After descending, we return to the hotel for a quick refresh, then gear up and hit the road. Today’s ride is shorter and flatter as we head northeast toward the coast, gradually transitioning from the dry central plains to the tropical vibes of Trincomalee.
By early afternoon, we reach the peaceful shores of Nilaveli Beach, a tranquil stretch of coastline known for its calm waters and laid-back charm. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy—relax by the pool, take a swim in the Indian Ocean, or simply unwind with a cool drink and the sound of the waves.
It’s the perfect change of pace after three full riding days—coastal serenity awaits.
- Distance: 100 Km
- Duration: 2 Hrs
Day 6 - Trincomalee (Free day)
Today is all about freedom—you can choose your own pace and adventure, whether you’re craving exploration or pure relaxation.
For those who love the sea, one of the highlights is a boat trip to Pigeon Island, a marine sanctuary just off the coast. It’s one of the best places in Sri Lanka for snorkeling, with vibrant coral reefs and the chance to swim alongside colorful reef fish, turtles, and sometimes even reef sharks. Alternatively, you can head out on a morning fishing trip in open waters with local guides for a unique and peaceful experience at sea.
If you’d rather stay on land, consider a visit to Trincomalee, a coastal town steeped in history and spiritual significance. Main attractions include the Koneswaram Hindu Temple, perched on a dramatic cliff overlooking the ocean, the Dutch Fort Frederick, and the natural harbor—one of the largest and most beautiful in the world. The town also offers a taste of local Tamil culture, colorful markets, and traditional street food.
Of course, if your perfect day involves doing absolutely nothing, Nilaveli Beach is just the place. Whether it’s lounging on the sand, reading by the pool, or enjoying a beachside meal, today is yours to enjoy however you please. Just let us know what you would like to do and we’ll help with the necessary.
Day 7 - Anuradhapura
We begin the day with a relaxed breakfast by the beach before setting off on a short ride inland toward the ancient heart of Sri Lanka. The journey takes us from the soft blues of the eastern coast to the sun-drenched plains of the cultural north-central region, where the land is dotted with lakes, dry forests, and age-old irrigation tanks.
Around midday, we stop for lunch on the road before reaching Anuradhapura, one of the most important archaeological and spiritual sites in the country. After a quick refresh, we get back on the bikes for a guided motorcycle tour through the sacred city—a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back over 2,000 years.
Riding through this vast and serene landscape, you’ll visit highlights such as the Ruwanwelisaya stupa, the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, and the monumental Jetavanaramaya. It’s a deeply atmospheric ride, surrounded by ruins, ancient reservoirs, and pilgrimage sites that continue to draw devotees to this day.
As the afternoon fades, we saddle up once more for a short final ride to our lodge on the outskirts of Wilpattu National Park, a peaceful retreat tucked away near the island’s largest and oldest national park. Here, you’ll unwind surrounded by nature, with the chance to spot wildlife even before stepping into the park.
- Distance: 134 Km
- Duration: 2.45 Hrs
Day 8 - Dambulla
After several full days on the road, today offers a slower pace and a chance to recharge. For early risers, there’s the option of joining a morning jeep safari in Wilpattu National Park, where you might spot elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and countless bird species in the untouched wilderness of Sri Lanka’s oldest national park.
We depart a little later than usual and enjoy a relaxed ride south toward Dambulla. Along the way, we stop to admire the impressive Avukana Buddha, a beautifully preserved 12-meter-tall statue carved from solid rock over a thousand years ago—an incredible example of ancient craftsmanship.
By early afternoon, we reach our hotel in Dambulla, set in a peaceful location and offering excellent facilities. Take time to enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, unwind at the on-site spa, or simply relax in the tranquil surroundings before the next cultural visit.
Later in the day, we head to the famous Dambulla Cave Temples. Perched on a rock over 100 meters high, the complex is reached by climbing around 365 steps. At the top, you’ll discover a remarkable series of five caves, home to over 150 statues of the Buddha and vibrant murals that have survived for centuries. The views from the top are equally breathtaking.
We return to the hotel in the late afternoon, where you can round off the day with a spa treatment, a dip in the pool, or simply enjoy the calm before the final stretch of the tour.
- Distance: 90 Km
- Duration: 2 Hrs
Day 9 - Negombo
As our journey nears its end, we set off from Dambulla for one last day on the road—soaking in the beauty and rhythm of rural Sri Lanka before returning to the coast.
We take a scenic detour through Galgamuwa, a quiet, less-traveled region that offers a final opportunity to spot wild elephants roaming freely near water reservoirs and forest edges. It’s a fitting farewell to the island’s incredible wildlife, and a peaceful contrast to the busier roads of the main highways.
The route today is all about enjoying the backroads—passing through farming villages, lush greenery, and a mosaic of small lakes and paddy fields that reflect the timeless pace of local life. It’s not a rushed day, but one to savor: gentle curves, open spaces, and the quiet beauty of Sri Lanka’s countryside.
By late afternoon, we arrive back in Negombo, where the tour began. The journey comes full circle, but the stories and memories are just beginning.
Tonight, we gather for a farewell dinner—a chance to share laughs, raise a glass, and celebrate the roads we’ve ridden together.
- Distance: 216 Km
- Duration: 5 Hrs
Day 10 - Departure
Transfer to airport or next destination. We hope you have enjoyed the adventure and to have you on tour again.
Inclusions
- Accommodation x 9 nights (Twin-sharing)
- All meals & soft drinks
- Royal Enfield 350cc Classic + fuel
- Local temporary license
- Entrance fees to sites/monuments
- English/Italian speaking guide
- Mechanic
- Support Vehicle with A/C
- Airport Transfers
- Up to $500 coverage for bike damages
Exclusions
- Airfares
- Entry visa fee
- Personal Insurance
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Tips & Gratuities
- Extra services (eg. laundry)
- Optional activities on Free day
- Optional Jeep Safari in Wilpattu
The Journey in the Tropical Pearl motorcycle tour is a thrilling journey across Sri Lanka’s diverse heartlands, from misty mountains to ancient capitals, and from tropical beaches to wildlife-rich plains. Designed for riders who love variety, this 9-day loop blends scenic roads, cultural landmarks, and the laid-back charm of the island’s east coast.
Your adventure begins in Negombo, with a welcome dinner and ride briefing by the sea. The first leg takes you up into the cool highlands of Nuwara Eliya, passing rubber estates, tea plantations, and—if skies are clear—a distant view of Adam’s Peak. From there, you descend into Kandy via winding hill roads, stopping for a tea factory visit before exploring the Temple of the Tooth and the city’s vibrant market.
The ride then intensifies as you tackle remote backroads through the Knuckles Mountain Range, descending via the legendary 18 Bends and skirting Maduru Oya National Park, where wild elephants are often seen. Arriving in Sigiriya, you’ll climb the iconic Lion Rock Fortress before heading northeast to the golden sands of Nilaveli Beach in Trincomalee.
After a free day to relax or snorkel around Pigeon Island, the journey continues to Anuradhapura, where a guided ride through ancient temples and stupas brings Sri Lanka’s spiritual legacy to life. A final short ride leads you to a lodge near Wilpattu National Park, with the option of an early morning safari.
On the way back south, you’ll visit the towering Avukana Buddha and the sacred Dambulla Cave Temples, before a relaxed final ride through rural backroads and villages. The tour ends in Negombo with a farewell dinner—the perfect close to a journey full of discovery, scenery, and unforgettable roads.
Keen to extend your holiday off the bike?
If you would like to spend a few days extra on the beach while continuing to explore Sri Lanka in the comfort of an A/C vehicle or relax at a luxurious resort in the Maldives we are here to help. Contact us to enjoy exclusive and all-inclusive rates for your holiday extension.
Sri Lanka Beach Resorts
Maldives Luxury Resorts
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a special driving license?
Yes. You will need a valid motorcycle license from your home country and/or an International Driving Permit (IDP). You will also require a local endorsement the Automobile Association of Ceylon (AAC) which we will obtain for you before your arrival.
Is it safe to ride in Sri Lanka?
Generally, yes, provided you ride defensively. Traffic in Sri Lanka can be chaotic, with buses, tuk-tuks, pedestrians and wildlife crossing. The Timeless Sri Lanka tour is fully guided, which helps you navigate local traffic customs, road signs, and potential hazards. Your experienced tour lead will set a manageable pace and provide safety briefings each day.
What is the riding skill level required?
The Timeless Sri Lanka tour is suitable for riders with moderate to advanced experience. Sri Lankan roads can be busy and unpredictable, so you should be comfortable handling a motorcycle in varying traffic and weather conditions. If you’re unsure about your skill level, reach out to the Ride On Sri Lanka team for personalized advice.
What are the road conditions like?
- Primary Roads: Generally in good condition, though you may encounter potholes or uneven surfaces.
- Mountain/Hill Country Roads: Winding and scenic, with occasional hairpin bends.
- Coastal & Rural Routes: Can be narrower, and watch out for pedestrians, livestock, or wildlife crossing.
During monsoon seasons, expect sudden downpours and slippery patches. The tour calendar often avoids peak monsoon periods, but always bring rain gear as weather can be unpredictable.
Do I need to bring my own gear?
Yes, you need bring your own helmet, jacket, and protective gear to ensure proper fit and safety standards. Here’s what we recommend to bring:
- Helmet
- Riding Jacket
- Riding Pants
- Gloves
- Riding Boots
- Base Layers
- Rain Gear
- Sunscreen
- Lip Balm
- Mosquito Repellent
What's included in the package?
From the moment you arrive at the airport until the end of the tour everything is included:
- Accommodation x 9 nights (Twin-sharing)
All meals & soft drinks
Royal Enfield 350cc Classic + fuel
Local temporary license
Entrance fees to sites/monuments
English/Italian speaking guide
Mechanic
Support Vehicle with A/C
Airport Transfers
Up to $500 coverage for bike damages
What's Not included in the package?
- Airfares
Entry visa fee
Personal Insurance
Alcoholic Beverages
Tips & Gratuities
Extra services (eg. laundry)
Optional activities on Free day
Optional Jeep Safari in Wilpattu
How Much Riding Per Day Can I Expect?
Riding durations vary between 3–6 hours per day, depending on the route and planned stops at attractions. There will be regular breaks for sightseeing, meals, and photo opportunities.
What are the accommodations standards?
On this tour we stay in carefully handpicked luxury resorts.
What about food & dietary restrictions?
Sri Lankan cuisine is delicious and can be spicy. The tour typically includes breakfast, and you’ll find a range of local and international meal options for lunch and dinner. If you have special dietary needs (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal), inform the tour operator in advance so they can make necessary arrangements.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Make sure your travel insurance explicitly covers motorcycle riding with 350cc engine capacity, including accidents and potential medical evacuation. Most standard policies don’t automatically include coverage for motorcycles over a certain engine size, so read the fine print or upgrade to an adventure rider policy.
What happens in case of accidents or medical emergencies?
In the event of an emergency, we rely on both public and private services to provide immediate assistance. We will promptly inform your emergency contact as well as your country’s embassy or consular mission. Please note that you are responsible for any expenses incurred in such situations; therefore, ensure your insurance policy covers motorcycle touring accidents. If necessary, Ride On will cover any initial expenses, which must then be reimbursed accordingly.
How Do I Book and What Is the Payment Process?
To confirm a booking, we require a 30% deposit. The balance is due three months before the tour date. Currently, we only accept bank transfer payments. Once you are ready to confirm, get in touch and we will send you an invoice with instructions.
What is your refund policy?
Deposits are generally non-refundable unless we have to cancel the tour. However, if you decide—or are unable—to join the tour for any reason, we will do our best to find a solution that works for both parties, whether by transferring the deposit to a different tour or, if possible, providing a partial refund. For more details on our refund policies please read the Terms & Conditions
Can I Extend My Stay or Explore Other Parts of Sri Lanka?
Absolutely! We would be happy to offer you a completely tailor-made extension of your trip even without motorcycle or a few days in the Maldives. Contact us to start planning info@rideonsrilanka.com
Absolutely! If you wish to extend your stay we can offer tailor-made packages even without motorcycle, including holiday packages in the Maldives. Contact us for more details info@rideonsrilanka.com
Empowering Futures, One Ride at a Time
We believe in making a positive impact beyond the road. That’s why we are proud to support Mihiri Gedara, a foster home in Galle, dedicated to providing education, care, and a brighter future for young girls in need.
For every booking we receive, we pledge $50 to help sustain their incredible work.
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