Most Inspirational Moment
The ascent of Lion Rock in Sigirya was a high point in more ways than one, as the rock itself dominates the area. To reach the extensive remains of the summit fortress involves climbing many hundreds of stone steps (and a few more modern iron ones). The effort is worthwhile just to admire the 5th C engineering but the view from the top is stunning, with an almost shear drop to the palace ruins and gardens 200m below, and a panorama of the surrounding countryside.
On a quite different level I was constantly amazed that we seemed to be such a source of fascination (and amusement) to local children. A cheerful "Good Morning" resulted in gales of laughter. Equally unfathomable was why all the children shouted "Bye", even though we had just arrived! It was very noticeable how, even in the poorest areas, the children were sent to school so neatly dressed.
There was little evidence of Sri Lanka's colonial past on the trip, at least until we reached Nuwara Eliya. The Hill House Hotel had all the ambience (and stuffiness) of a rather run-down Surrey golf club and made me wonder whether colonial grandeur had ever been all it was cracked up to be. The trip to the tea plantation and factory was fascinating however, though I wouldn't care to be a worker there. I will never look at the picture on boxes of Brooke Bond tea in quite the same way again.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Dileepa is a terrific leader, who combines hard work and professionalism with a very likeable personality. I think that he also set an excellent example for his support crew, who could not have been more helpful. He genuinely seemed to enjoy being with our group, even 'out of hours'; this included organising some party games at the end of the trip and even a cricket match. The very few problems that cropped up were dealt with, with efficiency and good humour. Having a native Sri Lankan for a group leader is of huge benefit, whether it is a matter of enquiring whether a roadside snack is suitable for vegetarians or understanding the history or way of life of the country.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Although the trip notes say that 95% of the roads are tarmac, this is not how it feels. 95% of the distance could just about be tarmac but certainly not 95% of the riding time, particularly as Sri Lanka seems to be in the middle of an ambitious road improvement programme.
Sri Lanka is very hot and humid, just like it says in the trip notes. Despite starting each day soon after first light, the temperature rises quickly and, particularly when it was necessary to ride through the hottest part of the day, this could be exhausting, in spite of the regular drink and snack stops. The ride distances may seem modest but the effort (and time) to complete the rides is much greater than a comparable distance in the UK.
