From Sigiriya :Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour/Day Tour

Exploring the ancient city of Polonnaruwa from Sigiriya promises a captivating day filled with history and natural wonders. Visitors can wander through the Gal Vihara, marveling at the impressive rock-carved Buddhas, before delving into the grandeur of the Royal Palace Complex. With opportunities to spot wildlife in Hurulu Conservation Park and admire the intricate Polonnaruwa Vatadage, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that immerses travelers in the region’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a history buff or nature enthusiast, this day trip from Sigiriya is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour, a 5-8 hour exploration of historical ruins and landmarks, is available as a day trip from Sigiriya.
• Key attractions include the rock-carved Buddhas of Gal Vihara, the Royal Palace Complex, and the intricate shrine carvings of Polonnaruwa Vatadage.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, and the opportunity to spot wildlife like monkeys, birds, and elephants.
• Visitors can opt for a guided safari jeep ride through the Hurulu Conservation Park or hire a ruins guide for historical context.
• The tour can be customized to suit traveler interests, with the option to include a lunch stop.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Duration

The Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the historical ruins and landmarks of the ancient city, with the tour duration ranging from 5 to 8 hours.

Travelers can discover ancient temples, palaces, and rock-carved Buddhas at top attractions like the Gal Vihara, Royal Palace Complex, and Polonnaruwa Vatadage.

The tour also includes wildlife observation, where visitors may spot monkeys, birds, and even elephants during the safari experience.

Visitors may spot monkeys, birds, and even elephants during the safari experience included in the Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour.

With hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, and a water bottle provided, the tour provides a comprehensive exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Highlights of the Polonnaruwa Ancient City

Polonnaruwa’s ancient ruins and landmarks offer visitors a captivating glimpse into the city’s storied past. The Gal Vihara features dramatic rock-carved Buddhas, while the Royal Palace Complex showcases historic ruins. Nearby, the serene Parakrama Samudra reservoir and the ornate Polonnaruwa Vatadage shrine provide opportunities for culture. Adventurous travelers can spot monkeys, birds, and even elephants during a safari at the Hurulu Conservation Park.

| Top Attractions | Highlights |

| — | — |

| Gal Vihara | Rock-carved Buddhas |

| Royal Palace Complex | Historic ruins |

| Parakrama Samudra | Ancient reservoir |

| Polonnaruwa Vatadage | Beautiful shrine carvings |

Exploring the Gal Vihara

Although renowned for its impressive rock-carved Buddhas, the Gal Vihara offers visitors a deeper glimpse into the artistic and spiritual heritage of ancient Polonnaruwa.

The site features four massive Buddha statues, each carved directly from the solid granite rock face. Visitors can admire the exquisite details and serene expressions of these iconic figures, which exemplify the technical mastery and devotion of the Polonnaruwan sculptors.

Beyond the Buddhas, the Gal Vihara also showcases intricate stone carvings, including decorative panels and inscriptions that provide insights into the religious practices and cultural traditions of the era.

Discovering the Royal Palace Complex

As visitors make their way through the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, they’ll be captivated by the grandeur of the Royal Palace Complex.

This expansive ruin showcases the power and influence of Polonnaruwa’s former rulers. Explore the intricate foundations, columns, and stone carvings that hint at the palace’s former glory.

Intricate foundations, columns, and stone carvings hint at the former glory of Polonnaruwa’s powerful rulers.

Wander through the royal audience hall, bathing pools, and underground chambers, imagining the bustling activity that once filled these spaces.

The Royal Palace Complex provides a window into the sophisticated architecture and engineering of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom, leaving visitors awestruck by its historical significance.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting the Parakrama Samudra

From the Royal Palace Complex, visitors can easily make their way to the Parakrama Samudra, an impressive ancient reservoir that once served as the lifeblood of Polonnaruwa.

This engineering marvel covers an impressive 2,500 acres and was constructed in the 12th century by King Parakramabahu the Great.

Visitors can:

• Stroll along the picturesque banks and take in the serene views of the lake.

• Spot a variety of birdlife and wildlife that thrive in the surrounding ecosystem.

• Explore the remnants of sluice gates and other hydraulic structures that controlled the water flow.

• Imagine the bustling activity of the past when the reservoir was the center of agriculture and commerce.

• Marvel at the scale and complexity of this ancient hydraulic engineering feat.

Admiring the Polonnaruwa Vatadage

Visitors approaching the Polonnaruwa Vatadage are immediately struck by its intricate and well-preserved carvings. This beautiful circular shrine is a stunning example of ancient Sri Lankan architecture and craftsmanship.

The Vatadage’s outer walls feature exquisite stone carvings of lotus petals, elephants, and other intricate designs. Inside, the central platform showcases four standing Buddha statues, each facing a different direction.

Visitors can explore the various chambers and marvel at the attention to detail in the shrine’s construction. The Polonnaruwa Vatadage is a must-see highlight of the ancient city tour, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Enjoying the Lotus Pond

After exploring the impressive Polonnaruwa Vatadage, visitors can stroll towards the historic Lotus Pond.

This serene and tranquil pool offers a glimpse into the ancient city’s past:

• Surrounded by lush greenery and carved stone embankments

• Home to a variety of aquatic plants, including the iconic lotus flowers

• Traditionally used for bathing and ceremonial purposes

• Offering a peaceful respite from the ruins and a chance to observe local wildlife

• Providing a picturesque setting for photography enthusiasts

Wildlife Observation and Optional Experiences

During the Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour, travelers can observe a variety of wildlife throughout the UNESCO-listed ruins. Monkeys, birds, and even elephants are often spotted during the safari portion of the tour.

Visitors can opt for a guided safari jeep ride through the Hurulu Conservation Park to increase their chances of encountering these magnificent creatures up close.

Travelers can book a guided safari jeep ride through Hurulu Conservation Park to see wildlife up close during the Polonnaruwa tour.

Other optional experiences include hiring a ruins guide to provide historical context and insights, as well as adding a lunch stop to the itinerary.

These extra activities allow travelers to customize their Polonnaruwa experience to best suit their interests and needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Accessible Is the Tour for Travelers With Disabilities?

The tour offers some accessibility for travelers with disabilities, with hotel pickup/drop-off and an English-speaking driver. However, navigating the ancient ruins may be challenging. Advance communication with the tour provider is recommended to understand the specific accessibility options.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Meal Options Available?

While the tour doesn’t offer specific dietary accommodations, the operator is happy to arrange alternate meal options for travelers with dietary restrictions. Guests should inform the team of any needs when booking.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Focus on Specific Interests?

The tour can be customized to focus on specific interests. Travelers can request a guide to highlight areas like archaeology, wildlife, or local culture. The tour provides flexibility to accommodate individual preferences.

What Is the Typical Group Size for This Tour?

The tour typically accommodates small groups, with a maximum size of 12 participants. This allows for a more intimate and personalized experience as you explore the ancient ruins and attractions of Polonnaruwa.

Are There Any COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place During the Tour?

The tour operator has implemented COVID-19 safety protocols, including requiring masks, social distancing, and providing hand sanitizer. Group sizes are limited to allow for proper distancing. Travelers can expect a safe and enjoyable experience.

The Sum Up

This captivating day tour from Sigiriya to the Polonnaruwa Ancient City offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and nature. Visitors can explore remarkable landmarks, observe wildlife, and benefit from the expertise of a knowledgeable English-speaking driver. The tour’s flexible duration allows for a personalized experience, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to enjoy Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: