A motorcycle tour of Sri Lanka offers an adventurous and immersive way to explore the island’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and diverse culture.
Sri Lanka is an island that everyone loves at some level inside themselves. A very special island that travellers, from Sinbad to Marco Polo, dreamed about. A place where the contours of the land itself forms a kind of sinewy poetry. Romesh Gunesekera
“Sri Lanka is a beautiful little island nation parked perilously close to India; its credit are fantastic beaches, strangely melancholy hills, and the ruins of kingdoms past.”
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If golden beaches, rising waves, misty mountains, mighty elephants, stealthy leopards, giant whales, a majestic past, lovely tea and warm smiles could sum up a country, that would be Sri Lanka.
Discovering Sri Lanka by motorcycle is a unique way to experience the island’s beauty and culture intimately. It combines the thrill of riding with the joy of exploration, making for an unforgettable adventure in this tropical paradise.
The Indian Ocean Island is blessed with splendid beaches, fetching monuments, mind-blowing historic ruins, magnificent museums, peaceful religious sites, vibrant cities, impressive villages, soothing rivers, playful waterfalls, silent forests and many more less explored treasures. Sigiriya, Colombo, Kandy, Galle and Nuwara Eliya are the five major attractions in this part of the world and are at the core of our tour.
A motorcycle tour through Sri Lanka is an unforgettable adventure that combines the thrill of riding with the opportunity to connect with the country’s diverse landscapes and rich culture. From historic sites to nature-filled escapes, this journey offers something for every type of traveler.
Why Sri Lanka?
Breathtaking Scenery – Sri Lanka is known for its diverse environments, ranging from lush green tea plantations and misty mountains to vibrant coastal areas and historic sites. Riding along the winding roads through the hill country, such as Nuwara Eliya or Ella, offers breathtaking views of waterfalls, tea fields, and valleys.
Cultural Immersion – As you ride through rural villages and towns, you get the chance to interact with locals, taste authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, and learn about the traditions and lifestyles of the people. Stopping at roadside tea stalls, markets, and festivals, enriching your travel experience.
Iconic Destinations
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Sigiriya: Climb the ancient rock fortress surrounded by beautiful gardens.
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Anuradhapura: Explore the ancient ruins and sacred sites of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Galle: Ride to this coastal city known for its colonial architecture and fort.
Wildlife Adventures – Sri Lanka is home to incredible wildlife. Our tour takes us to the national parks of Yala and Udawalawe, where you can go on safari rides to see elephants, leopards, and various bird species.
Thrill of Riding – The experience of riding through varied terrains, from coastal roads to mountainous paths, is thrilling. Whether navigating busy urban streets in Colombo or cruising along peaceful rural roads, the joy of being on two wheels in Sri Lanka enhances the adventure.
Key Information

2026 Suggested flights:
- Arrive Colombo, Sri Lanka on or before 8th February 2026 latest and we’d suggest at least a day earlier!
- Depart Colombo, Sri Lanka on or after 21st February 2026
We personally use Emirates / Etihad for the one-stop in the Middle East, which is a nice way to break the travelling day up. Skyscanner is a good place to start, there are lots of options on there.
2026 Itinerary (Subject to change).
Date |
Day |
Location |
08/02/2026 |
1 |
Negombo |
09/02/2026 |
2 |
Wilpattu/Anuradhapura |
10/02/2026 |
3 |
Dambulla |
11/02/2026 |
4 |
Polonnaruwa |
12/02/2026 |
5 |
Kandy |
13/02/2026 |
6 |
Mahiyanganaya |
14/02/2026 |
7 |
Kataragama |
15/02/2026 |
8 |
Galle |
16/02/2026 |
9 |
Galle |
17/02/2026 |
10 |
Udawalawe |
18/02/2026 |
11 |
Ella |
19/02/2026 |
12 |
Nuwara Eliya |
20/02/2026 |
13 |
Colombo |
21/02/2026 |
14 |
Departure |
Discover the charm of Negombo, Sri Lanka’s vibrant coastal city known for its golden beaches, fresh seafood, and Dutch-era heritage, Negombo offers a perfect blend of relaxation and culture.
Wilpattu, Sri Lanka’s largest and most untouched national park. Famous for its elusive leopards, majestic elephants, and tranquil natural lakes.
Nestled in the heart of the Cultural Triangle, Dambulla offers stunning rock temples filled with centuries-old murals and statues. It’s the perfect base for exploring nearby attractions like Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, making it a must-visit for history lovers and spiritual seekers alike.
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s beautifully preserved ancient royal capital. Explore majestic ruins, stone-carved Buddha statues, and grand palaces that tell stories of a rich cultural heritage. Surrounded by lush landscapes and ancient reservoirs, Polonnaruwa offers a captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s glorious past.
Kandy is a culturally rich and historically significant city located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. As the last royal capital of the island, it played a crucial role in preserving Sinhalese traditions, especially during colonial times. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kandy preserves ancient customs, Kandyan dance, and art forms that date back centuries.
Mahiyanganaya is a serene and spiritually significant town located in the Uva Province of Sri Lanka, nestled near the eastern edge of the central hills. It holds a special place in Sri Lankan history and Buddhist tradition.
Kataragama is one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred pilgrimage sites, revered by Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and the indigenous Vedda people alike. Located in the island’s deep south, this spiritual town is a rare example of religious harmony and cultural fusion.
Galle is a historic coastal city on Sri Lanka’s southwest that beautifully blends colonial architecture, rich maritime heritage, and vibrant local culture. Its heart is the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later expanded by the Dutch and British. Today, the fort’s sturdy granite walls and ramparts surround charming cobbled streets filled with boutiques, galleries, and cafes.
Udawalawe National Park, situated in southern Sri Lanka, is renowned for its impressive population of Sri Lankan elephants. Spanning approximately 308 square kilometers, the park offers a unique safari experience amidst its dry grasslands, scrub jungles, and riverine forests.
Ella, nestled in Sri Lanka’s central highlands, is a serene town renowned for its lush landscapes, tea plantations, and cool climate. It’s a haven for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those looking to escape the tropical heat. Some of the top attractions in Ella are Nine Arches Bridge, Ella Rock, Little Adam’s Peak, Diyaluma Falls, and Ravana Falls.
Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as “Little England,” is a charming hill station in Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands. Known for its cool climate, colonial architecture, and lush landscapes, it offers a refreshing escape from the tropical heat.
Colombo is the largest city in Sri Lanka and serves as its commercial capital (Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte is the legislative capital). It’s a vibrant mix of colonial heritage, modern urban life, and cultural richness, located on the western coast of the island.
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Galle Face Green: A seaside urban park perfect for evening strolls and local street food.
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Gangaramaya Temple: A Buddhist temple that blends modern architecture with cultural elements.
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Independence Memorial Hall: Built to commemorate Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule in 1948.
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Colombo National Museum: Houses ancient artifacts, including the throne and crown of Kandyan monarchs.
What’s Included?
- Rental Motorcycle incl. Fuel – Ride the legendary Royal Enfield 350 Classic – the perfect and most fitting motorcycle for a tour of Sri Lanka
- B&B in hand picked luxury hotels and guesthouses
- All Evening meals on riding days
- All Lunches on riding days
- National Park entrance fees – worth €250!
- Support vehicle
- Local temporary license
- Local guide(s)
- Overlanders guide
What’s Not Included?
- Flights & Visas
- Travel Insurance
- Optional activities on free/rest days
- Anything not listed above
More Information
Riding Difficulty
This tour is classed as moderate/difficult riding and is only recommended for experienced motorcyclists. The standard of roads/infrastructure in Sri Lanka is different than many other countries in the South East Asia. Maybe similar to India. Other road users are the primary hazards. It requires riders to adapt to the local ways to using the public roads and to be on full alert at all times. Additionally there are sections of roads in the more remote regions that are un-sealed. Generally the surface is good though and not much different to the sealed roads. Distances are not big and days are typically not long.
Should you have concerns please do not hesitate to contact us. It is your responsibility to ensure your motorcycling skills are up to the requirements for this tour. Obviously advanced riding skills increase enjoyment factor and reduce risk.
You will need an International Driving Permit for this tour and third party liability insurance is another topic.
Is this ride suitable for a passenger?
Yes for the experienced – though can be a little challenging at times! Pillion passengers should be experienced tourers / travellers.
What is the average group size?
Our groups are normally between 8 – 14 riders (some riders will have passengers). Most riders are from the Ireland, but we do also have overseas riders who may take part.
What documents do I need?
You will need your original documents as follows:
- Passport and Driving Licence. Passengers only need their passport. As a general rule, passports should be valid for at least 6 months after the end of the tour; however, this may be shorter in some European countries.
- International Driving Permit – available online
- In addition, you must have valid travel/medical insurance.
- Visas as required. An E-Visa can be applied for online and typically takes 3 working days and is valid for 1 month. Please ensure that you are fully aware of all passport and visa requirements and that you allow adequate time to obtain them. If you have any queries the likes of Trailfinders can help/advise or even apply for you.
What will the weather be like?
Depending on season / time of year we will advise expected weather conditions in the pre-trip information and also suggest the most suitable gear based on our experience. It is imperative that tour participants have suitably adequate gear. Please note our tour calendar is carefully planned taking into account the most suitable seasons / local weather for the destination. However, as much as we would like, we cannot always guarantee the best weather. Particularly considering the un-predictable climates the world has been experiencing.
What about my health when I am abroad?
You need to be physically fit and healthy and also take the necessary health precautions. It is essential for you to consult your doctor or travel clinic for up-to-date medical travel information prior of travel, particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition. Please ensure that you are fully aware of all official travel advice, local customs, current affairs, travel requirements and medical/travel advice. Please check with your GP regarding recommended inoculations.
Do I need Travel / Medical Insurance?
It is a condition of you travelling with us that you are adequately insured. Your insurance policy must cover you for the costs of any medical expenses, medical treatment or repatriation needed, due to injury or illness on this trip, including those that occur whilst motorcycle touring, either as the rider or a passenger. It is important that your insurance company understands that the main purpose of your trip is motorcycle touring, using your own large capacity cc motorcycle or a rental motorcycle. Your insurance must cover you for the full duration of the trip and for all countries we travel through.
In addition, we strongly recommend that your insurance policy has cover for loss or damage to your personal belongings, delay at your outward or homeward point of departure, personal liability, overseas legal expenses and cancellation and curtailment. We do not refund your deposit simply because you failed to take out insurance in sufficient time. Some travel insurance policies do not cover motorcycle travel over a certain cc or for a prolonged duration.
Minimum Numbers
We require a minimum number of 8 riders on this tour. If we do not have this number of bookings, then we reserve the right to cancel the tour.
Booking:
- Overlanders may accept a booking online, via telephone or by email. To confirm a booking a deposit is required – once the deposit is received the booking is confirmed.
Payments & Fees:
- A deposit is required at time of booking.
- Guided tours – 50% required at least 60 days prior to the shipment / travel date.
- All payments must be made in full at least 30 days prior to the shipment / travel date.
Cancellation/Amendments/Refund Policy:
- Please note that all payments and deposits are non refundable nor transferrable if cancellation accrues within one month before the shipment / tour date.
- Where possible we will try to accommodate any amendments you wish to make.
- In the event of curtailment no refunds shall be made.
- Refunds may be processed via the original method of payment, except for cash transactions where refunds will be provided by cheque.