Kandy’s bike tours offer the perfect blend of culture and outdoor adventure in Sri Lanka’s hill country. Three standout routes consistently impress: The Hantana Tea Trails delivers intimate views of working tea estates on a private mountain biking excursion. The Bell Lane Tour combines wheels and walking with stops at local waterfalls – ideal for active travelers who want variety. My personal favorite is the Hanthana Tea Plantation route, which includes the excellent Ceylon Tea Museum and a fascinating peek inside an abandoned tea factory. All tours provide quality equipment, knowledgeable guides, and refreshment breaks. Let’s explore these top cycling adventures in detail.
Key Points
- Private Mountain Biking Tour at the Hantana tea trails offers a highly rated cycling experience with quality bikes, helmets, and local refreshments.
- Kandy: Bell Lane Cycling Expedition provides a full-day adventure with activities like cycling, hiking, and ziplining, suitable for ages 10 and above.
- Hanthana Tea Plantation Cycling Tour is a 4-hour private group experience that includes a visit to the Ceylon Tea Museum and abandoned tea factory.
- All tours require a moderate fitness level and do not recommend participation for individuals with certain health conditions or mobility issues.
- Travelers can book and cancel tours flexibly, with confirmation within 48 hours and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Mountain Bike Tour Through Hantana Tea Trails Kandy
Frequently, travelers embark on the private mountain biking tour through the Hantana tea trails in Kandy, Sri Lanka. This 91% recommended experience showcases the lush landscapes of tea plantations, single-track sections, gravel and concrete roads, and a panoramic viewpoint.
The tour includes good-quality bikes, helmets, water, snacks, and hot drinks, as well as a coffee and/or tea stop at a street shop for coconut roti and Sri Lankan black tea. Private transportation with door-to-door transfers from Kandy hotels is provided.
Operating from December 20, 2024, to February 28, 2025, the tour is available Monday to Sunday from 07:30 AM to 01:30 PM. Travelers are advised to confirm the start time with the local provider in advance.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with heart problems and serious medical conditions, as a moderate physical fitness level is required.
Prices start from $75.00 per person and vary by group size. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts, and confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
Travelers can also opt for the reserve now and pay later option.
Read our full review: Mountain Bike Tour Through Hantana Tea Trails Kandy Review
Book now: Check availability
Kandy: Bell Lane Cycling Expedition & Adventure Tour!
Embarking on the Kandy: Bell Lane Cycling Expedition & Adventure Tour is an exhilarating opportunity to take in the natural wonder of Kandy. Priced at $145 per person, this full-day adventure encompasses cycling, hiking, waterfall trekking, ziplining, and hillside swimming. Participants will explore Kandy’s breathtaking landscapes while engaging in adrenaline-pumping activities.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off by tuk-tuk, as well as an experienced cycling guide, first aid, and a backup vehicle. Cyclists will be provided with mountain bikes and helmets, and the costs for hiking, waterfall entrance, and ziplining are all covered.
Refreshments, including water, snacks, breakfast, and lunch, are also included. The tour is suitable for participants who can ride a bicycle independently, and comfortable clothing is recommended.
Children under 10 aren’t permitted, and pregnant individuals shouldn’t participate. Participants should be ready 15 minutes prior to the scheduled pickup time, and roundtrip transportation is available from centrally located Kandy hotels.
Read our full review: Kandy: Bell Lane Cycling Expedition & Adventure Tour! Review
Book now: Check availability
Hanthana Tea Plantation Cycling Tour
For those seeking a more serene cycling adventure, the Hanthana Tea Plantation Cycling Tour offers a captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s renowned tea heritage. Priced from $120 per person, this 4-hour private group experience takes cyclists on a scenic ride through the lush Hanthana Tea Plantation.
Highlights include visiting the Ceylon Tea Museum, exploring the abandoned Hanthana Tea Factory, and learning about the history of tea production. Cyclists will also enjoy stunning views of bright green tea leaves against the distant mountains.
The tour includes a mountain bike, helmet, guide, and a complimentary bottle of water, as well as the tea museum entry ticket.
While not suitable for wheelchair users or pregnant women, the tour is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy Sri Lanka’s tea culture. Participants should bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a passport or ID.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Hanthana Tea Plantation Cycling Tour is a flexible and convenient way to explore the Kandy region.
Read our full review: Hanthana Tea Plantation Cycling Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Bike on the Tour?
Most bike tour companies allow riders to bring their own bikes. However, it’s best to check with the specific tour operator beforehand, as they may have requirements or recommendations regarding personal bikes on their tours.
What Should I Wear for the Bike Tour?
For the bike tour, it’s best to wear comfortable, breathable clothing and closed-toe shoes. Layers are recommended in case the weather changes. Don’t forget sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Is There a Weight Limit for the Tour?
There’s usually a weight limit for bike tours, often around 250-300 lbs. It’s best to check with the tour operator ahead of time to ensure the bikes can accommodate your weight comfortably and safely.
Can I Stop for Photos During the Tour?
Yes, you can stop for photos during the bike tour. Most tour providers allow and even encourage participants to take breaks for photos along the way, as long as it doesn’t significantly disrupt the group’s progress.
Are the Bike Tours Suitable for Beginners?
The bike tours are generally suitable for beginners. Most tours start with a brief safety and skills session, and the routes are designed to be manageable for those new to cycling. Experienced guides ensure participants feel comfortable throughout the tour.
The Sum Up
Kandy boasts a range of exciting bike tours that allow visitors to discover the region’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From the Hantana Tea Trails to the Bell Lane Cycling Expedition, these tours offer an active and immersive way to explore the area. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, there’s a bike tour in Kandy that’s sure to capture your interest and provide an unforgettable experience.