Anuradhapura was Sri Lanka’s first Kingdom, and the UNESCO ruins here are evidence of the island’s earliest civilisation. Explore the extraordinarily advanced architecture and engineering and learn about Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage.
- Uncover the ancient ruins of Sri Lanka’s first civilisation
- Cycle the lesser-known trails around Anuradhapura
- Hear fascinating tales of Sri Lanka’s early history
What's Included ?
Host, bikes, helmets, refreshments.
What to wear?
Clothes/shoes for cycling
Follow your local Buddhist host around the ancient Kingdom of Anuradhapura on quiet cycling trails away from the crowds. Your host is passionate about avoiding over-tourism and offering an authentic insight into Sri Lankan heritage. Work your way in towards the centre of these UNESCO-protected ruins, passing paddy fields, crumbling jungle-enveloped structures and ancient irrigation systems until you reach the main city relics. Highlights include soaring stupas, the Elephant Pond and the centuries-old sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree that symbolises the introduction of Buddhist in Sri Lanka.
How long does the cycling tour of the ancient Kingdom of Anuradhapura typically last?
The duration of the cycling tour of the ancient Kingdom of Anuradhapura can vary depending on the pace of the tour. Generally, the tour lasts between 3 to 4 hours, allowing participants ample time to explore the UNESCO-protected ruins and experience the authentic heritage of Sri Lanka.
Are bicycles provided for the cycling tour, or do participants need to bring their own?
Bicycles are typically provided for the cycling tour of the ancient Kingdom of Anuradhapura. Participants do not need to bring their own bicycles, as we be arranging bikes suitable for the excursion.
Is the cycling tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The cycling tour of the ancient Kingdom of Anuradhapura is generally suitable for participants of moderate fitness levels. The cycling trails are designed to be away from crowds and offer a quiet and leisurely experience through the UNESCO-protected ruins. However, some sections of the trail may involve cycling on uneven terrain or uphill slopes, so participants should be comfortable riding a bicycle and prepared for moderate physical activity.
Away from the crowds, we explored quiet trails that offered a peaceful and authentic insight into Sri Lankan heritage. Passing through paddy fields and jungle-enveloped structures was a surreal experience, and our host Manju’s passion for preserving the site’s authenticity was evident throughout the tour. Highlights like the soaring stupas and the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree left a lasting impression, providing a deeper understanding of Buddhist history in Sri Lanka. This was a great experience loved by my whole family.
I had an amazing time cycling through the ancient Kingdom of Anuradhapura with my knowledgeable Buddhist host. The quiet trails allowed us to explore the UNESCO-protected ruins away from the hustle and bustle of tourist crowds, providing a serene and authentic experience. From passing by paddy fields to discovering ancient irrigation systems, every moment of the tour was filled with wonder and discovery. The highlights, including the Elephant Pond and the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, were truly breathtaking and offered valuable insights into Sri Lankan heritage. I’m grateful for the opportunity to explore this historic site with such a passionate and informative guide.
