Day Trip to the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa From Negombo

Discover the captivating ancient city of Polonnaruwa on a day trip from Negombo. For just €110.34 per person, you’ll embark on a 12-hour excursion filled with remarkable sights and culture. Explore the Lankatilaka Gedige temple, the breathtaking Gal Vihara, and the historic Demala Maha Seya stupa, all while learning about Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage. With comfortable transportation, an English-speaking driver, and a knowledgeable local guide, this is an opportunity to delve deeper into the country’s fascinating past. The journey promises to be an unforgettable experience, leaving you eager to uncover more of Polonnaruwa’s enchanting secrets.

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Key Points

A 12-hour day trip from Negombo to Polonnaruwa, including a 3.5-hour car journey each way and a 2.5-hour guided tour of key attractions like Buddhist shrines and palace ruins.
The trip covers cultural and historical highlights such as the 13th-century Lankatilaka Gedige temple, the colossal Gal Vihara Buddha statues, and the ancient Demala Maha Seya stupa.
The tour provides insight into Sri Lanka’s profound Buddhist legacy and showcases the architectural and engineering prowess of the former capital city.
Dress code requires covering shoulders and knees, and visitors must remove their shoes when entering temples.
The trip is subject to weather conditions and involves moderate walking, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

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Overview and Pricing

A day trip to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa from Negombo costs €110.34 per person.

This 12-hour excursion allows visitors to explore the site’s Buddhist shrines, old statues, and palace ruins.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and travelers can reserve their spot without paying upfront.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, bottled water, entrance fees, and a local guide.

The tour provides pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, bottled water, entrance fees, and a local guide.

However, food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t covered.

Certain travelers, such as pregnant women and wheelchair users, may not be able to fully participate in this moderately walking-intensive trip.

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Itinerary and Travel Details

The trip departs from Negombo, with a 3.5-hour journey by car to reach Polonnaruwa.

Once there, travelers will enjoy a 2.5-hour guided tour through the ancient city’s key attractions. The itinerary is subject to change, but typically includes visiting Buddhist shrines, old Buddha statues, and the ruins of ancient palaces.

Key highlights are Lankatilaka Gedige, Gal Vihara, and Demala Maha Seya. The tour also covers heritage sites like Thuparama, Topa Wewa Lake, and the Sea of Parakrama.

After the tour, the 3.5-hour return journey brings visitors back to Negombo.

Exploring the Ancient Shrines and Ruins

Upon arrival at Polonnaruwa, visitors embark on a captivating journey through the ancient city’s collection of remarkable shrines and ruins.

They’ll explore:

The Lankatilaka Gedige, a magnificent 13th-century Buddhist temple with intricate stone carvings.
The Gal Vihara, a series of four colossal Buddha statues carved directly from the rock.
The Demala Maha Seya, an ancient stupa that stands as a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage.
The Thuparama, a historic site that showcases the impressive engineering feats of the ancient Polonnaruwan civilization.

These ancient wonders offer a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s profound Buddhist legacy.

Highlights of the Visit

Visitors explore the highlights of Polonnaruwa, marveling at the ancient city’s remarkable shrines and ruins. They start at the imposing Lankatilaka Gedige, a 14th-century temple with intricate stone carvings. Next, they venture to the Gal Vihara, a series of Buddha statues carved from a single granite rock. The Demala Maha Seya, a massive brick stupa, also captivates visitors with its grandeur. Significant heritage sites include the Thuparama, Topa Wewa Lake, and the Sea of Parakrama – remnants of an advanced ancient civilization. With each discovery, the grandeur of Polonnaruwa’s past unfolds before them.

| Attraction | Highlights |

| — | — |

| Lankatilaka Gedige | 14th-century temple with intricate stone carvings |

| Gal Vihara | Series of Buddha statues carved from a single granite rock |

| Demala Maha Seya | Massive brick stupa showcasing the city’s architectural prowess |

| Thuparama | Impressive ancient Buddhist shrine |

| Topa Wewa Lake & Sea of Parakrama | Remnants of an advanced ancient civilization |

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Cultural and Historical Significance

As a former capital of Sri Lanka, Polonnaruwa boasts a rich cultural and historical legacy that continues to captivate visitors.

Some key highlights include:

The Lankatilaka Gedige, a magnificent 12th-century rock temple that showcases the architectural prowess of the Polonnaruwa era.
The Gal Vihara, a collection of four colossal Buddha statues carved directly from granite, representing the pinnacle of Sinhalese sculpture.
The Demala Maha Seya, an impressive stupa that stands as a testament to the cultural diversity of Polonnaruwa, with its Hindu-influenced design.
The Sea of Parakrama, a vast artificial lake that demonstrates the advanced hydraulic engineering skills of the Polonnaruwan civilization.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The day trip to Polonnaruwa from Negombo includes several key services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. The package covers pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, bottled water, and all entrance fees.

A local guide will provide a 2.5-hour tour of the ancient Buddhist shrines, statues, and ruins. However, the cost doesn’t include meals, drinks, or gratuities.

Travelers should also note that the trip isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with heart problems, or wheelchair users due to the moderate walking involved. Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and appropriate attire for temples are recommended.

Important Considerations

Aside from the inclusions and exclusions, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind when planning this day trip to Polonnaruwa.

When planning a day trip to Polonnaruwa, consider the inclusions, exclusions, and other important factors for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Dress Code: Visitors are required to remove their shoes and cover their shoulders and knees when entering the ancient temples and shrines.
Weather Conditions: The trip is subject to weather conditions, so it’s advisable to check the forecast and pack accordingly.
Physical Ability: Moderate walking is involved, so the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
Passport Requirement: Participants must have a current, valid passport to join the tour.

Getting There and Preparing for the Day Trip

Reaching Polonnaruwa from Negombo requires a 3.5-hour drive, but the scenic journey is part of the experience. Travelers will be picked up from their Negombo accommodations and driven to the ancient city.

Along the way, they’ll pass through lush countryside and catch glimpses of Sri Lankan rural life.

Once in Polonnaruwa, a knowledgeable local guide will lead a 2.5-hour walking tour of the key sites. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, pack sunscreen and a hat, and be prepared to remove footwear and cover up when entering temples.

With advance booking and planning, travelers can easily explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Common Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a maximum group size. It’s a private day trip, so the group size is flexible and can accommodate individual travelers or small groups. The tour operator will arrange transportation based on the number of participants.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

The tour doesn’t include food or drinks, but you’re welcome to bring your own. However, large bags or luggage aren’t allowed, so pack light. The tour operator recommends comfortable clothing and footwear for the moderate walking involved.

Is There a Restroom Break During the Tour?

Yes, there are scheduled restroom breaks during the tour. The itinerary allows for stops at convenient locations, providing participants with sufficient opportunities to use the facilities throughout the day’s activities.

Can I Extend the Length of the Tour?

Travelers can’t extend the tour length, but they can book additional experiences. The standard day trip has a fixed 12-hour duration, including pickup, sightseeing, and return travel. Extending the tour would require booking a separate activity.

Do I Need Any Special Permits or Documents?

No special permits or documents are required, but travelers must bring their current valid passport. The tour operator handles all necessary entrance fees and arrangements for the guided tour of the historic Polonnaruwa site.

The Sum Up

Enjoy Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage on this captivating day trip from Negombo to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Explore remarkable sites, including the Lankatilaka Gedige temple and the stunning Gal Vihara, while experiencing the enchanting landscapes along the way. With comfortable transportation, an English-speaking driver, and a knowledgeable local guide, this €110.34 per person excursion offers a unique opportunity to discover the cultural and historical significance of this enchanting destination.