Routes/Across Kingdoms Route
Moderate
Cultural
Dry zone tropical

Across Kingdoms Route

Cycle through the ancient kingdoms of Sri Lanka, exploring archaeological wonders and cultural heritage.

AnuradhapuraMihintalePolonnaruwaSigiriyaDambullaMatale

Distance

380 km

Door-to-door cycling distance

Ride Duration

9 Days

Typical time in the saddle

Elevation Gain

2,800m total ascent

Total climbing across the route

Difficulty

Moderate

Intensity level curated by our guides

Climate

Dry zone tropical

Typical conditions you’ll ride through

Terrain Style

Cultural

Surface mix and riding feel

Route Story

Journey through 2,500 years of Sri Lankan history on this cultural cycling odyssey. The route connects the island's most significant archaeological sites and ancient capitals, offering insights into the rich Buddhist heritage and royal legacy.

Ideal riding window: Oct-Mar

Daily Rhythm
1
Day 1: Colombo to Anuradhapura (210km) - Transfer and ancient city arrival
2
Day 2: Anuradhapura exploration (40km) - Sacred city cycling
3
Day 3: Anuradhapura to Mihintale (25km) - Birthplace of Buddhism
4
Day 4: Mihintale to Polonnaruwa (85km) - Kingdom transition
5
Day 5: Polonnaruwa exploration (30km) - Medieval capital discovery
6
Day 6: Polonnaruwa to Sigiriya (40km) - Rock fortress approach
7
Day 7: Sigiriya to Dambulla (25km) - Cave temple visit
8
Day 8: Dambulla to Matale (35km) - Spice gardens
9
Day 9: Matale to Colombo (90km) - Return journey
Route Gallery
Across Kingdoms Route gallery image 1
Across Kingdoms Route gallery image 2
Across Kingdoms Route gallery image 3
Cultural Capitals Loop

Numbered pins highlight the royal capitals and UNESCO treasures that anchor this itinerary.

Signature Highlights
  • Anuradhapura ancient city
  • Polonnaruwa medieval capital
  • Sigiriya Lion Rock
  • Dambulla Cave Temple
Route Snapshot
Moderate

Best months: Oct-Mar

Key locations: Anuradhapura, Mihintale, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Matale

Support vehicles, premium bikes and expert ride leaders included with every hosted departure.

Plan Your Ride

Share your group’s pace, travel window and wish list—we’ll craft an itinerary that layers this route with boutique stays, cultural encounters and flexible recovery days.

Ready to turn this route into your signature Sri Lankan ride?

Our travel designers weave logistics, recovery and storytelling into every journey. Pair this route with curated accommodations, support crews and cultural experiences for a complete island adventure.