Ponniyin Selvan Trail - Sri Lanka
28th Sept - 2nd Oct 2023
With great excitement , the second leg of the Ponniyin Selvan Trail Ride was kicked off on 28th September 2023. What added to the excitement was travel beyond India, more specifically to the Emarald Isle of Sri Lanka. Comprising of around 25 riders, both amateurs and regular cyclists, the trip was perfect blend of both adventure and leisure. Curated with a lot of passion, this expedition was led by the mercurial Moulana Ramanujar duly supported by Iron Lady Girija Palani
Thursday 28th September- Day 1
This was a short loop ride of 15 kms around Anuradhapura, the longest serving ancient capital of Sri Lanka , and the cradle of Sinhalese civilisation. We cycled around Abhayagiri Dagoba, a major monastery , Ruwanwelisaya Stupa and the Bassawakkulam Lake
Friday 29th September - Day 2
A quick breakfast at Anuradhapura Hotel and a 17 km off road ride from Talawa to Kekirawa along the canal. This was one of most picturesque ride of the tour. The day culminated with hike to Sigriya , also known as the Lion Rock, an ancient fortress and UNESCO World Heritage site known for its palace ruins on top of a massive 200 meter high rock surrounded by the remains of an extensive network of gardens, reservoirs and other structures.
Saturday 30th September- Day 3
The day began with a visit to the famous Dambulla Cave Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site having the largest, best-preserved cave-temple complex in Sri Lanka followed by a breathtaking 50 km ride in a midst of steady drizzle to Giritale.
Sunday 1st October- Day 4
This was the penultimate day of the of tour covering a distance of 17 km to the ancient city of Pollanaruva ending at the Chola Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva
Monday 2nd October - Day 5 (Colombo)
After four days of cycling, this was day for relaxing and shopping in Colombo and then back to Namma Chennai.
All in all a memorable event and will be cherished for a long time.
- Parmeshwaran Krishnan
