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Essential Information - Sri Lanka - Classic
Negombo - Udawalawe - Belihuloya - Galle
Before booking your holiday with us, please check the status of your chosen tour. We strongly advise against booking any flights or making other travel arrangements until the tour is marked as Guaranteed.
To confirm your place, simply pay the deposit. This deposit can be refunded at any time until the tour status changes to "Guaranteed". Your final balance will be due 56 days before the tour start date.
When you book, you are agreeing to our booking conditions – please take a moment to read them in full.
Each tour requires a minimum number of participants to go ahead. As bookings come in, the status will update from Available, to 2 More to Guarantee, and finally to Guaranteed once the minimum is met. You can always check the current status on the ‘Dates and Prices’ section of the tour page.
Tour status definitions:
✅ Guaranteed – The tour is confirmed and open for booking.
✅ Guaranteed – Limited – Confirmed to run, but only a few spaces left.
⏳ Available – 2 More to Guarantee – Tour is open but needs just 2 more bookings to confirm.
🟢 Available – Open for booking but not yet confirmed to run.
📩 Contact – Please get in touch if you're interested in this tour.
❌ Fully Booked – This tour is no longer available.
Once a tour is marked Guaranteed, you can confidently go ahead with booking your flights and making travel plans. We don’t cancel trips once they reach guaranteed status, except in very rare and exceptional circumstances.
✅ What’s Included
🚐 Support Vehicle – Full vehicle support throughout the tour
🏨 Accommodation – Comfortable local stays each night
🍽️ Meals – Most meals included (see Trip Notes for details)
🚰 Snacks & Water – Refreshments provided during cycling days
✈️ Airport Transfers – Provided on the first and last day of the tour
🧑🏫 Local Guides – Experienced, English-speaking professional guides
🛫 International Flights
Please arrange your own flights to and from the tour destination.
🍷 Alcoholic Beverages
Alcohol is not included in the tour package.
🍽️ Unlisted Meals
Meals not outlined in the itinerary are at your own expense.
🎟️ Entrance Fees
Entry to touristic sites is not covered.
🛂 Visa Fees
Visa arrangements and fees are the responsibility of each traveller.
🛡️ Travel Insurance
Must be arranged independently before departure.
💰 Tips
Gratuities for guides and support staff are not included.
🚲 Bike Hire
Available on request for an additional fee.
📍 Tour Start: Negombo
Your tour begins in Negombo.
You should arrive on Day 1 of the itinerary and book your return flight for the final day of the trip.
🚐 Airport Transfers
Redspokes arranges your airport transfer to the joining hotel, regardless of what time your flight lands on Day 1.
🕛 Note: If you arrive before midday, your room may not be immediately available — thank you for your patience.
🏨 Extra Nights & Transfers
Arriving early or staying on after the tour?
We can help with additional accommodation and airport transfers at an extra cost. Just let us know!
🌍 International Flights
Please note: International flights are not included in the tour price.
You can compare flight prices and times on:
www.kayak.com
www.opodo.co.uk
💱 Currency Exchange
Sri Lankan Currency
The local currency in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). You’ll need rupees for all purchases—foreign currencies are not accepted in shops, restaurants, or hotels.
What to Bring
Travelers from the UK, EU, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand should bring USD or Euros, as these are widely accepted and easy to exchange locally.
Also bring a Visa or Mastercard debit/credit card for ATM use and as a backup.
Where to Exchange
You can exchange money or withdraw cash on arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (Negombo).
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ATMs and exchange counters are available in the arrivals area.
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For better rates, it’s best to exchange only a small amount at the airport and use licensed exchange offices or ATMs in town later.
✔ Your redspokes guide will help you find the best exchange options throughout the tour.
💸 Spending Money
Spending habits vary, but we estimate that £200 / $270 will comfortably cover most expenses during the 14-day tour.
Typical Prices in Sri Lanka
| Item | Price in LKR | Approx. GBP |
|---|---|---|
| Mid-range meal | LKR 1,500–3,500 | £6–£15 |
| Soft drink (can) | LKR 150–250 | £0.30–£0.60 |
| Bottled water (1L) | LKR 100–200 | £0.20–£0.50 |
| Local beer (625ml) | LKR 400–600 | £1–£1.50 |
| Imported beer | LKR 600–900 | £1.50–£2.20 |
Sri Lanka offers excellent value for money, especially outside of major tourist areas.
🧭 Helpful Tips
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Cash is essential, especially in rural areas and small towns.
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Inform your bank before travel to avoid any issues using your cards abroad.
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Carry small notes—useful for tips, snacks, and local shops.
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Currency conversion charges may apply—check with your bank.
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Your redspokes guide is always on hand to help with exchange or ATM access.
💁♂️ Staff Tipping
Tipping is a common and appreciated way to thank your local team. While not required, tips are encouraged for excellent service.
How to Tip
We recommend tipping as a group at the end of the tour. The guide will then distribute the total fairly among the support team.
Suggested Amount
💷 £60–£80 per person
💵 $80–$100 equivalent
Please note: These tips are a bonus, not part of wages. redspokes ensures our local teams receive competitive pay—tips are simply a personal gesture of thanks.
For this tour we have Trek Marlin 7 mountain bikes in a range of sizes. Spare parts (tubes, tyre, chains etc.) are included in the price of the bike rental and will be carried in the support vehicle with a tool kit and track pump.
We also have a selection of e-bikes available. While these e-bikes may not be of the same high standard as those used on some of our other tours, they are the best currently available in Sri Lanka and are more than adequate for the route. Spare batteries will be carried in the support vehicle to ensure continuous riding without concern for battery life.
🔧 Our support vehicle carries a complete toolkit, spare parts, and a track pump to handle any issues along the way.
⚙️ Customise Your Ride
All bikes come with standard flat pedals. If you prefer using SPD or clip-in pedals, feel free to bring your own.
Similarly, if you have a personal saddle you’d like to use, you're welcome to bring it along.
🧰 Our guide will be on hand to fit your pedals and saddle to your hire bike.
🪖 Helmet Policy
Please note that cycle helmets are not included in the bike hire.
🛑 You must bring your own helmet — helmet hire or purchase cannot be guaranteed on location.
✅ Wearing a helmet is mandatory while cycling. Failure to do so is at your own risk and may impact the validity of your travel insurance.
Trek Marlin 7
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You will at all times have the security of a support vehicle - either a jeep or a van. The vehicle will carry your luggage (we transport your main luggage from each overnight stop to the next) and yourself, if required. The support vehicle will be with us throughout the day stopping around every 12 miles (20 km).
Our tour leaders carry a good tool kit and will fix any bike problems, so all you normally need to carry is a daypack, for your camera, phone etc. We cannot, however, guarantee that we will be equipped for all repairs, so if you are bringing your own bike on the tour you must ensure that it is in good working order and that you carry spares which are specific to your bike. If in any doubt, please have your bike fully serviced before you travel.
🚲 Bike Hire
Don’t want to bring your own bike?
Bike hire is available for most tours at an additional cost.
🚪 Single Room Supplement
Prefer your own space?
Upgrade to a private single room, subject to availability, for an extra fee.
📝 You can select these extras when you book your tour, or request them later by emailing us (availability permitting).
🏨 Extra Accommodation & Transfers
Planning to arrive early or stay on after the tour?
We can assist with additional hotel nights and airport transfers — just let us know in advance.
Charges apply.
🧍♂️ Solo Travellers & Room Sharing
We welcome a wide mix of cyclists — from couples and friends to solo travellers.
🛏️ Room Sharing
Our prices are based on twin-share accommodation.
If you're travelling alone, we’ll pair you with a same-gender roommate from the group.
🚪 Single Room Option
Prefer your own space?
You can choose a private single room on most tours for an additional cost. Just select this option when booking (subject to availability).
Extras & Add-ons
🍽️ What's Included?
Most meals are included in the tour price, except on non-cycling days and a few other exceptions.
Please refer to your itinerary for full details.
🌿 Dietary Requests
We can cater to most dietary requirements — including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free — but it's essential you inform us at the time of booking.
🇱🇰 Sri Lankan Cuisine
A typical Sri Lankan meal features:
🍚 Rice and curry as staples
🥥 Coconut, 🌶️ chilli, 🌿 curry leaves, 🧄 garlic, and cinnamon as key flavours
🐟 An abundance of fresh fish and seafood
Breakfasts and evening meals are served at your hotel or guesthouse
On travel days, our support team provides light picnic-style lunches
💧 Mineral water is provided via a group kitty system
It is mandatory that you have comprehensive travel insurance covering the full duration of your tour. Your policy must include:
🚑 Medical expenses & personal injury
🚁 Emergency evacuation (helicopter/air rescue)
💼 Loss of luggage or equipment
❌ Trip cancellation or curtailment
⚰️ Death and repatriation
⚠️ Policy Conditions
Make sure your insurance does not exclude cover for cycling or adventure activities.
📝 We strongly recommend purchasing insurance at the time of booking to ensure you're covered in case of cancellation.
🇬🇧 UK Residents
If you're based in the UK, Snowcard Insurance Services specialise in mountain sports cover, including cycling holidays.
We choose accommodation for its comfort, character, and location — not for luxury.
Pricing is based on twin-share rooms.
🚪 Private Room Option
If you’d like your own space, single room supplements are available on most tours for an additional charge.
See the Dates & Prices section for full details.
🛏️ What to Expect
On this trip, most nights are spent in guesthouses or hotels.
Some hotels include:
🛁 En-suite bathrooms
❄️ Air conditioning
🚴♂️ Bikes & Equipment
A lightweight mountain bike or hybrid bike is ideal for cycling in Sri Lanka. Most roads are paved and in good condition.
🔧 Pre-Tour Bike Check
We strongly recommend having your bike fully serviced before the tour. Make sure to:
Adjust all wheel spokes
Grease all bearings
Check gear and brake cables
Tighten all nuts and bolts
Inspect the chain, tyres, wheel rims, and quick-release clamps
Fit new inner tubes if needed
🧰 Bring the Following Essentials:
Multi-tool
Tyre levers
Hand pump
Spare inner tubes
Spare spokes
Disc or brake pads (check with your bike shop)
Chain links
Any specialised spares (e.g. brake fluid or bleed kit)
✈️ Travelling with Your Bike
Your bike must be transported as part of your checked baggage allowance. A boxed bike typically weighs 15–20kg, so please check your airline's policy to avoid excess baggage charges.
You must hold a valid passport in order to travel. Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of your return from any overseas destination.
Visa and entry requirements for most countries can and do change from time to time and so we strongly recommend that you consult the government travel website for where your passport was issued.
For UK nationals, please visit the gov.uk website for up to date information about entry requirements for Sri Lanka. The website also provides vaccination advice as well as the option to sign up for Alerts so that you are aware if requirements have changed.
Visitors to Sri Lanka for tourism purposes must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) prior to arrival or on arrival to Sri Lanka. Holders of ETA obtain a visa on arrival that is valid for 30 days.
For more information follow the the link here www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/
We strongly recommend that you consult your doctor or a Travel Health Clinic at least 8 weeks before departure to get up-to-date advice on vaccinations and medications for travel to Sri Lanka.
You can also refer to the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) for further guidance.
⚠️ Important Notes
Vaccination requirements can change, so it’s essential to check the latest advice.
Redspokes staff are not qualified to offer medical recommendations.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are adequately vaccinated and travel-prepared.
☀️ Climate & When to Go – Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a year-round destination, thanks to its warm tropical climate. However, December to mid-April is considered the peak travel season, especially for the west and south coasts and the central highlands.
🌴 Seasons at a Glance
🌞 Summer (May – September): Warm and sunny, with occasional showers.
🌧️ Winter / Monsoon (October – February): Expect more rain, especially in the south and west, though travel remains very possible.
📆 Year-Round Travel: Coastal areas average 26°C, while higher elevations are cooler, around 16°C.
Sri Lanka's diverse geography means there's always a region with good weather—no matter the month!
Staying Hydrated – 6 Tips for Cyclists
As a cycling company, we know how important proper hydration is—especially when you're out riding in hot conditions. Below are some general hydration tips that riders find helpful for staying fuelled and feeling strong on the bike.
Please note: We are not medical professionals and this information should not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Each cyclist is different, so if you have specific health concerns or conditions, it is always best to consult your doctor and adhere to their advice.
1. Prioritize Gut Health
Why it matters: A healthy gut = better absorption of water and nutrients.
How to do it: Fuel your microbiome with probiotics (like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut) and prebiotics (like garlic, onions, and bananas) to keep your digestion and hydration on point.
2. Time Your Hydration
Why it matters: When you drink can be just as important as how much.
How to do it: Start your day with a big glass of water—add a splash of lemon or a pinch of sea salt for extra hydration power.
3. Hydrate Beyond Water
Why it matters: Water isn’t the only way to hydrate.
How to do it: Mix in coconut water, bone broth, or other nutrient-rich drinks to stay hydrated and replenish lost electrolytes—especially during long rides or after sweating.
4. Don’t Forget the Minerals
Why it matters: Minerals like sodium, calcium, and magnesium help your body retain water.
How to do it: Eat mineral-rich foods like salted nuts, seeds, and dairy—or consider a quality mineral supplement if needed.
5. Absorb Water Better
Why it matters: Guzzling water too quickly can flush out nutrients and be poorly absorbed.
How to do it: Sip consistently throughout the day. Add a pinch of sea salt to your bottle, and include water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and pineapple.
6. Keep Your Electrolytes in Check
Why it matters: Electrolytes help regulate fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions.
How to do it: Eat foods high in potassium and magnesium like bananas, avocados, and leafy greens. Add electrolyte tablets or a pinch of sea salt to your water, especially after intense sweat sessions.
While personal preferences vary, here’s a helpful guide to the clothing and equipment you may need for your Sri Lanka cycling adventure. Adapt this list based on your own needs and travel style.
👕 Clothing
🪖 Cycle Helmet – Mandatory and must be worn at all times when cycling
🕶️ Sunglasses – Eye protection from sun and dust
💧 Water Bottles or CamelBak
👕 Base Layer Tops (breathable material)
🧥 Fleece Jacket / Pullover
🌧️ Waterproof Cycling Jacket (breathable fabric)
🩳 Padded Cycling Shorts
🧦 Lightweight & Heavyweight Socks
🩳 Trekking Shorts
👖 Trousers
👕 Lightweight T-Shirts
👔 Long-Sleeved Shirt
🧤 Fingerless Cycling Gloves
🧣 Buff
🧴 Lip Balm / Sunscreen
🧼 Hand Sanitiser
🧻 Towel
🩺 Personal First Aid Kit (Recommended)
Our guides carry first aid supplies, but we advise you to bring your own kit, including:
💊 Paracetamol / Ibuprofen
💊 Anti-diarrhoeals (e.g., Lomotil or Diacalm)
💧 Rehydration Salts (Dioralyte)
🧴 Antiseptic Cream
🍬 Throat Lozenges
🩹 Plasters / Band Aids
👃 Nasal Spray
👁️ Eye Drops
👂 Ear Plugs
🖐️ Antibacterial Hand Wash
🧻 Antiseptic Wet Wipes
🦟 Insect Repellent
🔧 Miscellaneous
🍫 Energy Bars / Gels / Snacks
🧃 Energy / Recovery Drinks
📷 Camera
📌 Remember to pack light but smart! Weather in Sri Lanka is generally warm and humid, so breathable fabrics and sun protection are key.
🌍 Country Profile: Sri Lanka
Official Name: Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
Commercial Capital: Colombo
Population: 21.2 million
Area: 65,610 sq km (25,332 sq miles)
🗣️ Languages
Sinhala
Tamil
English (widely spoken)
🕊️ Religions
Buddhism
Hinduism
Islam
Christianity
👵 Life Expectancy
Men: 72 years
Women: 78 years
💱 Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
🌺 Culture & Etiquette
Sri Lanka has a rich cultural heritage shaped by Buddhism, Hinduism, colonial influence, and island traditions. Visitors are warmly welcomed, but a respectful approach to local customs is appreciated.
👣 General Etiquette
Dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
Shoes and hats must be removed before entering any temple or religious building.
Avoid public displays of affection, especially near sacred places.
When sitting, avoid pointing the soles of your feet towards people or religious objects.
It is polite to use your right hand for giving and receiving items or money.
🛕 Temples & Sacred Places
Never touch or pose next to a Buddha statue, even for photos.
Refrain from speaking loudly or turning your back to Buddha images.
Photography inside temples may be restricted—ask before taking pictures.
🤝 Social Interaction
A slight head nod or friendly smile is a common greeting; handshakes are common but may vary by gender and setting.
Sri Lankans are generally modest and soft-spoken; it's appreciated if visitors mirror that tone.
If invited to a local home, it’s customary to bring a small gift such as sweets or fruit.
Our professional cycling tops are designed with three rear elasticated pockets to give you plenty of space for your cycling essentials and comes with a silicone bottom hem. Lined with COOLMAX ® to keep you cool and comfortable and ensure moisture wicking. Available in varies sizes so please refer to size charts for more information.
If you need assistance or wish to discuss the tour, please feel free to call us on +44 (0) 1463 417707.
Alternatively, you can email us on office@redspokes.co.uk for more information on this adventure holiday.
Key Stats
Challenging
41 miles
2,208 ft
Days
Tour Features
- Kurunegala: mythological 'animal rocks'.
- Sigiriya fortress: moats, ramparts, water gardens.
- Dambulla Cave Temples
- Polonnaruwa: medieval capital
- Kandy: Temple of the Tooth, Udawattekelle reserve.
- Mirissa: idyllic beach, surfing, whale watching.
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Customer Testimonial
"Sri Lanka is beautiful and amazing and a bike tour with Redspokes is the best way to see the country. Our guides worked tirelessly to provide a rich cultural experience..."
John Homer
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