1000 KM
8 Nights 9 Days
Colombo Airport
RE Classic 350 / Honda CRF / Baja
85% Tarmac,
15 % off roads
Basic
USD 2800
Serendip(the enchanting) is one of the ancient (Persian/Arabic) names of Sri Lanka and we consider this an apt name for this exploratory adventure around this incredible Island nation that is steeped in history, mythology and cultural amalgamation.
Sri Lanka is the epitome of a tropical island and the diversity is showcased through its landscape and flora, which allows for a varied adventure that throws new surprises every day. One day you are riding along pristine beaches and the next day you are in tea plantation country. One day you are in the midst of ancient history and the next day you are motorcycling in a dense National park.
The friendly people, the amazing weather(mostly), incredible food and the diverse riding conditions make it a perfect playground for a motorcycle adventure.
It’s a short drive to the ancient port city of Negombo with its iconic Oruwa boats. We all meet at the hotel lobby and meet the team and remaining participants. Our hotel is in a beautiful setting, so you can either spend time relaxing on the lawns or take short walks into this bustling but picturesque city. The beach is close by and sunsets are quite stunning. Enjoy a beer at one of the many beachside establishments and take in the charms of this enchanting island.
We ride a short stretch along the coast, then divert inland to travel toward Sri Lanka’s historic and cultural centre. Sigiriya or Lion’s Rock may be Sri Lanka’s most famous geographical feature. Predominantly Buddhist architecture scattered with Hindu influences from South India. The coming days showcase the rich and ancient cultural significance of this island nation in the history of the sub- continent.
Note- All monument entries to be paid at actuals.
From the centre of the island we drift further East to the non-touristy parts of the Island. Immaculate beaches, low crowds, and a roaring surf make this part of Sri Lanka a paradise for those seeking water sports. Predominantly Tamil speaking, you start seeing subtle shifts in food and a total shift in language.
We travel further down the East coast on spectacular highways and some secret off-road tracks through the National Park. There’s always a chance of seeing an Elephant in Sri Lanka, so keep your eyes peeled and enjoy the countryside.
We return inland and this time make for the high country and the fabled tea plantation that produces the finest Ceylon Tea. This is where the magic begins as you climb a series of mountain folds along stunning roads. However, the remains of landslides and fallen rock, indicate how delicate the balance is. We visit a tea factory en route to our hotel.
Today may be one of my favourite rides in the whole world, let alone Sri Lanka. We begin the day climbing further into the clouds and suddenly ride into the surreal Horton plains NP, and descend through enchanting forests into the tourist town of Ella (of the 9 arch bridge fame). We stop briefly before continuing our descent towards Yala NP and our greatest chance of seeing elephants in the wild.
We return to the hills and the accompanying plantation country. By now, it’s easy to look at the vegetation and understand whether we are gaining altitude or not. The paddy of the coast changes to areca nut, changes to rubber, changes to coffee, changes to tea, changes to confierous trees, changes to grassland.
Our last day on the road and after a idyllic start we start hitting some traffic. Its a huge contrast from our previous 5 days of riding, because we are now riding through some of the most populated parts of Sri Lanka and therby the associated traffic. The countryside is still stunning and quality of tarmac brilliant, so we ride into Negombo, tired but alsolutely sated.
Post breakfast, the tour ends.
You can either choose to take a car to Colombo airport or if you have decided to spend a few more days in Sri Lanka, you can transfer to your next destination.
