Day Trip to the Ancient Capital of Polonnaruwa From Colombo

Set out on a captivating day trip from Colombo to the ancient capital of Polonnaruwa. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts stunning temples, including the impressive Lankatilaka Gedige and the serene Gal Vihara. With a 3-hour journey, breakfast stop, and guided tour, you’ll learn about Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture. Priced between £77.17 to £85.74 per person, this 12-hour adventure promises an unforgettable experience.

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Key Points

Affordable day trip from Colombo to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, with prices ranging from £77.17 to £85.74 per person and potential savings of up to 10%.
Comprehensive 12-hour tour includes a 3-hour journey to Polonnaruwa, 1.5-hour breakfast stop, 3.5-hour guided tour of the ancient city, and 4.5-hour return trip.
Highlights of the tour include visits to renowned Buddhist temples like Lankatilaka Gedige, Gal Vihara, and Demala Maha Seya, as well as exploration of Polonnaruwa’s iconic sites.
Tour services include pickup and drop-off, English-speaking driver, bottled water, and all necessary entrance fees, with local guide providing informative commentary.
Important considerations for participants include suitability restrictions, recommended attire, and cultural sensitivity during temple visits, ensuring a memorable and hassle-free experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This day trip to Polonnaruwa from Colombo offers remarkable value, with prices ranging from £85.74 to £77.17 per person – a savings of up to 10%.

The 12-hour tour includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and a reserve now, pay later option.

The journey takes 3 hours to Polonnaruwa, 1.5 hours to a local restaurant for breakfast, and 4.5 hours for the return trip.

The journey takes 3 hours to Polonnaruwa, 1.5 hours to a local restaurant for breakfast, and 4.5 hours for the return trip.

Highlights include a guided tour of the ancient city, visits to Buddhist temples, and exploration of heritage sites like the Thuparama and Topa Wewa Lake.

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Itinerary and Highlights

The day trip to Polonnaruwa begins with pickup at Gamini Hall, where travelers embark on a 3-hour journey to the ancient city.

After a 1.5-hour breakfast stop, the group explores the Polonnaruwa Ancient City on a 3.5-hour guided tour. Highlights include visits to the Buddhist temples of Lankatilaka Gedige, Gal Vihara, and Demala Maha Seya.

Participants also marvel at the stone-carved Buddha icons at the Galvihara and discover the heritage sites of Thuparama, Topa Wewa Lake, and the Sea of Parakrama.

The return journey takes 4.5 hours, completing the 12-hour day trip experience.

Included Services

The day trip to Polonnaruwa includes several essential services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for participants.

A day trip to Polonnaruwa includes essential services for a seamless and enjoyable experience for participants.

Pick-up and drop-off at their accommodation are provided, along with an English-speaking driver to handle transportation. Bottled water and all necessary entrance fees are included, so travelers don’t have to worry about additional costs.

A local Sri Lankan guide accompanies the group, offering informative commentary throughout the guided tour of the ancient city.

While meals and gratuities aren’t covered, these inclusions make the overall experience convenient and hassle-free for guests.

Important Information for Participants

Although not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, or wheelchair users, the day trip to Polonnaruwa offers an engaging experience for participants.

Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat are recommended. Smoking and large bags aren’t allowed. Participants must bring a valid passport, as there’s moderate walking involved.

When visiting temples, the dress code requires removing footwear and hats, and covering shoulders and knees. This cultural sensitivity ensures a respectful experience at the ancient heritage sites.

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Customer Reviews and Feedback

How do the customer reviews and feedback for the day trip to Polonnaruwa paint a picture of the overall experience?

The 5-star rating and positive comments from travelers highlight the exceptional value for money and luxurious nature of this solo tour.

Guests consistently praise the attentive guides, who provide informative and immersive insights into the ancient city’s rich heritage.

Attentive guides provide informative and immersive insights into Polonnaruwa’s rich heritage, consistently praised by guests.

Travelers also laud the delicious local cuisine and comfortable transportation, contributing to a memorable and hassle-free journey.

Reviewers express enthusiasm for the opportunity to explore Polonnaruwa’s iconic temples and archaeological wonders, creating an enticing picture of a captivating cultural adventure.

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Discovering the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka, stands as a testament to the country’s captivating historical legacy.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a wealth of archaeological wonders, from the majestic Lankatilaka Gedige temple to the awe-inspiring Gal Vihara, which features four colossal Buddha statues carved from a single slab of granite.

Visitors can explore the Thuparama, one of the oldest shrines, and marvel at the engineering feat of the Sea of Parakrama, an expansive ancient reservoir.

The guided tour allows travelers to explore Polonnaruwa‘s rich history and gain a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka’s remarkable cultural heritage.

Exploring the Buddhist Temples and Heritage Sites

As visitors explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, they’ll be captivated by the array of Buddhist temples and heritage sites.

The tour takes guests to three must-see attractions:

The impressive Lankatilaka Gedige, a massive brick and stone temple renowned for its intricate carvings and architectural grandeur.
The awe-inspiring Gal Vihara, a series of four colossal Buddha statues carved directly into the rock face, showcasing the region’s impressive mastery of stone sculpting.
The towering Demala Maha Seya, a majestic stupa that dominates the landscape and offers a glimpse into the region’s rich Buddhist heritage.

The Enchanting Journey From Colombo to Polonnaruwa

The enchanting journey from Colombo to Polonnaruwa takes travelers on a captivating expedition through Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

After pickup from Gamini Hall, the 3-hour drive offers stunning views before reaching the ancient city. Guests explore the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa, visiting Buddhist temples like Lankatilaka Gedige and Gal Vihara.

They marvel at the impressive stone-carved Buddha icons and historic sites like Thuparama and Topa Wewa Lake.

With an English-speaking driver and local guide, the day trip provides an immersive experience, showcasing the region’s architectural wonders and natural beauty.

Comfortable attire and sturdy footwear are recommended for the moderate walking involved.

Common Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

This tour is not recommended for pregnant women, people with heart problems, or wheelchair users, but there are no specific age restrictions. Participants should be in good physical condition to handle the moderate walking involved.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

The tour doesn’t allow participants to bring their own food or drinks. Bottled water and entrance fees are included, but any other food or drink not detailed in the description is not provided.

Is Wi-Fi Available During the Tour?

The tour does not provide Wi-Fi during the day trip. Participants will need to rely on their mobile data or consider purchasing a local SIM card if they require internet access while exploring the ancient sites of Polonnaruwa.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Our Preferences?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to participants’ preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility to adjust the schedule and activities based on the group’s interests and needs. Just let the guide know your preferences.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if We Need to Change Our Plans?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing flexibility to change plans. Plus, there’s a reserve now & pay later option available.

The Sum Up

Set out on a captivating day trip from Colombo to Polonnaruwa, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, marvel at the stunning temples, and learn about the rich history and culture. With a local guide, comfortable transportation, and an unforgettable experience, this day trip offers an opportunity to discover the architectural wonders and historical significance of this fascinating destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: