The Grand Circuit
10 Days 950 km Moderate Max 10

The Grand Circuit

Tour Overview

A ten-day, guided motorcycle journey around Sri Lanka, from the kite-surfing coast to the ancient cities, up through tea-covered mountain passes, past wild elephants, and down to the ramparts of Galle.

Tour Highlights

Ride close to 950 km of Sri Lanka's most varied roads.
Explore Polonnaruwa's ancient ruins and reservoirs.
Climb through tea country and mountain passes to Nuwara Eliya.
Hike and unwind in Ella, a mountain town of the hill country.
Track wild elephants at Udawalawe National Park.
Discover the historic, UNESCO-listed Galle Fort.
Balanced itinerary with two full leisure days built in.
Duration 10 Days/9 nights
Distance 950 km
Difficulty Moderate
Terrain All Terrain
Group Size Max 10
Riding Hours 2-5
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Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Colombo → Kalpitiya

Morning rider briefing and motorcycle handover before departing Colombo. Ride the coastal belt north through Negombo and fishing villages toward the Kalpitiya Peninsula, a spit of land between the Indian Ocean and Puttalam Lagoon. Afternoon free for kite-surfing or a dolphin-watching trip. Overnight in Kalpitiya.

2

Kalpitiya → Polonnaruwa

Cut inland through the dry zone toward the Cultural Triangle. Arrive in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka's 11th-century royal capital, and explore its ruined stupas, giant carved Buddhas and ancient reservoirs. Overnight in Polonnaruwa.

3

Polonnaruwa → Kandy

Ride south toward the last of Sri Lanka's hill kingdoms, with an optional stop at Dambulla Cave Temple and a spice garden en route. Explore the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy Lake, and enjoy a cultural dance performance in the evening.

4

Kandy → Nuwara Eliya

Ride through winding mountain roads, waterfalls and tea plantations. Visit Ramboda Falls and a working tea factory before arriving in the cool hill country, nearly 1,900m up. Evening at Gregory Lake.

5

Nuwara Eliya

A day off the bike. Walk the tea estates, visit Hakgala Botanical Gardens, or simply enjoy the cool mountain air of "Little England" before the ride south begins.

Leisure
6

Nuwara Eliya → Ella

A relaxed ride through Sri Lanka's most scenic tea estates and down into Ella. Visit Nine Arch Bridge and Ravana Falls, and hike Little Adam's Peak before sunset over the valley.

7

Ella → Udawalawe

Descend out of the hills into open grassland at Udawalawe, gateway to one of the best parks in Sri Lanka for spotting wild elephants. Afternoon free for an optional safari.

8

Udawalawe → Galle

Ride south to the coast and arrive in Galle, where 17th-century Dutch fort walls enclose cobbled streets, boutique stays and ramparts over the Indian Ocean.

9

Galle

A second day off the bike. Explore the UNESCO-listed fort on foot, swim, catch a nearby surf break, or watch the sunset from the ramparts.

Leisure
10

Galle → Colombo

Ride the final coastal stretch north back to Colombo, closing the loop. Motorcycle handover, farewell lunch, and airport or hotel transfers.

What's Included

Included

  • Royal Enfield motorcycle with petrol
  • 9 nights' accommodation (twin-share basis)
  • Daily breakfast, lunch, dinner and water
  • English, Tamil and Sinhala-speaking lead rider
  • Mechanic and backup vehicle
  • First aid kits and on-road support
  • All listed entrance fees and tolls

Not Included

  • Flight charges and visa
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Travel and health insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Telephone and internet charges

Available Dates

Dec 19 – 26, 2026
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Mar 4 – 14, 2027
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May 10 – 20, 2027
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Tour Price

Rider
$2,399
Pillion
$2,099
/person

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to own a motorcycle to join a ride?

No. We partner with Royal Enfield LK for rentals. Let us know when you book and we'll sort the rest.

How experienced do I need to be?

It depends on the route. We have rides suited to first-timers and to experienced riders. Each ride shows a difficulty level. If you're not sure, just ask.

What's included in the price?

All guided rides include route planning, a lead rider, accommodation, and mechanical backup. The full inclusions are listed on each ride page.

How do I book?

Click "Book This Tour" on any ride page, or send us a message through this form. We'll confirm availability and walk you through the next steps.

What is the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation up to 7 days before the ride. Within 7 days, contact us directly and we'll work something out.

Can I book for a private group?

Yes. Private group rides are one of our core offerings. Tell us your group size and preferred dates and we'll build it around you.

What bikes do you use on guided rides?

We use Royal Enfield motorcycles on most routes. Rental options are available through our partner, Royal Enfield LK.

What safety gear should I bring?

A helmet, jacket, gloves, and riding boots are required. If you don't have gear, let us know when you book and we'll help arrange it.

Are meals included?

Some rides include meals; others don't. The inclusions are clearly listed on each ride's page.

What if I've never been on a group ride before?

Most of our riders started that way. Our lead riders make sure everyone is comfortable before we head out. No one gets left behind.

Can I ride with a pillion passenger?

Some routes allow it, others don't. Mention it when you book and we'll advise on the best option.

Duration 10 Days/9 nights
Distance 950 km
Difficulty Moderate
Terrain All Terrain
Group Size Max 10
Riding Hours 2-5
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