East Coast Odyssey

Head east from Matara along the southern coast past Tangalle's protected lagoons to Tissamaharama — home to the ancient Tissa Wewa tank.

Ride north to the sacred pilgrimage city of Kataragama, then on to Yala National Park — Sri Lanka's premier wildlife reserve and one of the best places in the world to spot leopards.

A full day to enjoy Yala. Take an early morning jeep safari deep into the park to spot leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and hundreds of bird species.

The long eastward push through dry-zone wilderness. Ride north through the scrub jungle to Buttala, then through Monaragala's rocky hills and the remote forests of Siyabalanduwa to the east coast at Potuwil.

Explore the lagoon-edged coast south of Arugam Bay via Panama before turning back inland. Ride west through Monaragala and begin the climb towards the hill country, overnighting in Passara.

Into the highlands. Visit Badulla — the end-of-line hill country town — and the famous Demodara loop bridge, one of the engineering marvels of the colonial railway era. Descend to the backpacker haven of Ella.

A day off the bike in Ella. Hike to Little Adam's Peak, walk along the Nine Arches Bridge, or simply enjoy the panoramic views of the hill country from this laid-back mountain town.

Descend from the highlands through Wellawaya and Tanamalwila to the open plains of Udawalawa, arriving at the edge of the national park where wild elephants gather at dusk.

A day to enjoy Udawalawa. Take an optional jeep safari into the national park to see elephants, water buffalo, and crocodiles in their natural habitat.

The final long run home. Roll south through the quiet villages of Embilipitiya, Middeniya, and Weeraketiya, rejoin the coast at Beliatta, pass Dikwella's famous blowhole, stop at Dondra — the southernmost point of Sri Lanka — and ride back to Matara.