From Sigiriya:Polonnaruwa Day Tour with Farmers lunch

Discover Polonnaruwa with a Sigiriya Day Tour and Farmers Lunch

Taking a trip from Sigiriya to explore the archaeological marvels of Polonnaruwa is a fantastic way to step back into Sri Lanka’s regal past. This tour promises a blend of history, scenic beauty, and local flavor, making it a well-rounded day out.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to walk among some of Sri Lanka’s best-preserved ruins. Second, the opportunity to photograph iconic sites like Gal Vihara and the Royal Palace, perfect for history buffs and shutterbugs alike. And third, the delicious farmers lunch, served in a charming setting overlooking lush paddy fields, offers an authentic taste of Sri Lankan cuisine.

A potential consideration is the entrance fee to the ruins, which is not included in the tour price of $58. For travelers on a tight budget, this adds to the overall cost but also ensures you get a comprehensive, guided experience.

This tour suits history lovers, photographers, foodies, and anyone wanting a balanced day of exploration and relaxation in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Well-structured itinerary covering key archaeological sites of Polonnaruwa
• Affordable price offering a full-day experience with transportation, guide, and lunch included
• Authentic Farmers Lunch with local flavors in a picturesque setting
• Expert guidance helps unravel Sri Lanka’s ancient stories
• Ideal for photographers with stunning monuments and scenic views
• Flexible booking options with pay later and cancellation free up to 24 hours

A Balanced Look at the Sigiriya: Polonnaruwa Day Tour

This tour is a fantastic way to experience the highlights of Polonnaruwa without the hassle of planning. From Sigiriya, you’ll be picked up by a friendly, English-speaking driver—someone like Amal, who many reviews praise for being helpful, punctual, and accommodating. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride, even on warm days, and the round-trip service means you don’t have to worry about navigation or transportation logistics.

Exploring the Ancient Ruins

Once in Polonnaruwa, you’ll have the chance to explore an ancient city that flourished during a golden age of Sri Lankan civilization. As you wander through the ruins, you’ll see structures that vividly reflect the architecture and grandeur of the past. Among the must-see sites are the Royal Palace, the Gal Vihara (home to massive, intricately carved Buddha statues), and the Vatadage, a distinctive circular Buddhist shrine.

Reviewers highlight how well-preserved these sites are, allowing you to appreciate the craftsmanship and scale of the original structures. One reviewer, Hung, mentioned, “Took me to all the spots in Polonnaruwa, and the lunch was the real highlight.” This speaks to the comprehensive coverage of the tour, ensuring you’ll get to see the main attractions without feeling rushed.

The Photography Opportunities

For those into photography, this tour is a delight. The ancient ruins, with their detailed carvings and statues, are picture-perfect. The Gal Vihara with its serene Buddha figures carved out of rock is especially photogenic, offering a chance to capture peaceful, monumental images. The Lotus Pond, shaped like an eight-petalled flower, provides a calm, reflective backdrop, perfect for memorable photos.

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The Authentic Farmers Lunch

What sets this tour apart is the farmers lunch, a highlight praised repeatedly by guests. Served in a charming setting overlooking a lush paddy field, the meal offers an authentic glimpse into Sri Lankan cuisine. Expect a generous spread of curries, rice, and local vegetables, with fresh fruit juices like papaya, watermelon, or lime.

Reviewers describe the lunch as “extremely good food” and “a huge spread of curries in a beautiful setting.” The relaxed, rural environment makes it more than just a meal—it’s a cultural experience. Some reviewers mention that the lunch is so good they would happily return just for the culinary aspect of the tour.

Practical Details and Tips

• Transport and Duration: The entire day is comfortably managed with hotel pickup and drop-off, and the vehicle remains air-conditioned throughout. From pickup to return, expect a full day of sightseeing, usually around six hours.

• Cost and Value: The tour costs $58 per person, which includes transportation, guide, bottled water, parking, and the farmers lunch. The only additional cost is the $30 entrance fee to the ruins, which is not included in the package. While this adds to the overall expense, many guests feel it’s still excellent value, considering the comprehensive experience.

• Extras and Optional Add-ons: You can rent a cycle at about $3.50 if you want to explore more freely, or hire a guide for specific ruins for an extra $25. These extras can deepen your understanding but aren’t essential to enjoy the core tour.

• What to Bring: Remember your passport for entrance, and comfortable shoes for walking around the ruins. Sunscreen and a hat are also recommended, especially if visiting during hotter months.

Authentic Experiences and Local Insights

Guests consistently mention the friendliness of the driver and guide, with one reviewer stating, “Our driver made extra stops along the way, being very flexible and friendly.” This personal touch elevates the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

The lunch with farmers is a standout, giving you a chance to see rural Sri Lanka in action while enjoying authentic, home-cooked food. It’s a rare opportunity to connect with local culture beyond the typical tourist spots.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal if you’re seeking a well-organized day that balances history, culture, and culinary delights. It’s particularly suited to photographers and history enthusiasts eager to see well-preserved ruins and capture stunning images. The inclusion of local food and scenic views makes it appealing for travelers wanting an immersive, authentic experience.

It’s also perfect for those who prefer small group or private style tours, as the transportation and guide are attentive and flexible. Budget-conscious travelers will find the value in the comprehensive package, especially considering the quality of the highlights.

The Sum Up

The Sigiriya to Polonnaruwa day tour offers a rich, balanced experience packed with history, scenic beauty, and a taste of local life. The well-preserved ruins provide a tangible connection to Sri Lanka’s ancient past, while the farmers lunch delivers authentic flavors in a tranquil setting.

For travelers who want to make the most of their time and enjoy a comfortable, guided journey, this tour hits the perfect sweet spot. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate detailed storytelling, good value, and the chance to take stunning photos in a peaceful rural backdrop.

While the entrance fee isn’t included, the overall experience, guided insights, and delicious meal make this a smart choice for anyone eager for an authentic, memorable day in Sri Lanka.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, a friendly English-speaking driver, bottled water, parking fees, and a farmers lunch with fruit juice.

How much is the entrance to Polonnaruwa?
The entrance fee to the ancient city is $30 per person and is not included in the tour price.

Can I rent a bicycle during the tour?
Yes, bicycle rentals are available at around $3.50, which can be a fun way to explore some ruins or scenic spots at your own pace.

Is the lunch traditional Sri Lankan food?
Yes, the farmers lunch is an authentic Sri Lankan meal, with a variety of curries, rice, vegetables, and fresh fruit juice served in a picturesque rural setting.

How flexible is the tour?
Guests have reported that guides and drivers are accommodating, with some making extra stops along the way, making the experience more personalized.

What should I bring?
Be sure to carry your passport, wear comfortable shoes, and bring sunscreen or a hat for protection from the sun.

Is this tour suitable for photography?
Absolutely. The ruins, natural scenery, and vibrant lunch setting provide plenty of photographic opportunities, especially for those keen to capture Sri Lanka’s architectural and rural charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: