Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour With Minneriya Elephant Safari

Discover the captivating blend of ancient ruins and natural wonders on this immersive day tour. Wander through the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa Archaeological Site, marveling at the well-preserved royal palaces and towering Buddha statues. Then, venture into the lush Minneriya National Park, where you’ll witness one of the world’s largest gatherings of wild Asian elephants. With expert guides to share their knowledge, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure, leaving you eager to uncover more of Sri Lanka’s treasures.

Key Points

• This full-day tour combines visits to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Polonnaruwa Ancient City and a safari in Minneriya National Park to see the "Gathering" of Asian elephants.
• Highlights at Polonnaruwa include the Royal Palace, Gal Vihara’s colossal Buddha statues, and the Sacred Quadrangle, with guides providing insights into the site’s rich history.
• The Minneriya National Park safari offers a chance to witness the natural wonder of the world’s largest gathering of Asian elephants.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, guided safari, and entrance fees for both Polonnaruwa and Minneriya.
• An optional guided tour of the Polonnaruwa ruins is available for an additional charge, and the tour is not suitable for pregnant women.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour offers an enriching full-day experience, combining a guided exploration of the UNESCO-listed archaeological site with an exciting safari adventure in Minneriya National Park.

The tour lasts 8 hours and is priced from $84.27 per person. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

Pickup is included, with guests waiting in their hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled time. The driver is an English speaker, ensuring seamless communication throughout the day’s activities.

Exploring Polonnaruwa Ancient City

The Polonnaruwa Ancient City is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its rich history and impressive archaeological marvels.

Visitors explore the Royal Palace, an architectural masterpiece that once housed the seat of power for ancient kings. The highlight is the Gal Vihara, featuring four colossal Buddha statues carved out of a single granite rock.

The Sacred Quadrangle, with its ruins of temples and monasteries, offers a glimpse into the city’s spiritual and cultural significance. Experienced guides share captivating tales of the site’s past, immersing travelers in the grandeur of this ancient Sri Lankan capital.

Highlights of Polonnaruwa

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Polonnaruwa is renowned for its captivating historical sites, each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage.

The Royal Palace complex stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of ancient kings, while the Gal Vihara impresses with its colossal Buddha statues carved into granite.

The Sacred Quadrangle, home to temples and shrines, showcases the spiritual significance of the city.

Guided tours allow visitors to delve deeper into the stories and significance of these archaeological marvels, making Polonnaruwa a must-visit destination for history buffs.

The Guided Tour Experience

Visitors to Polonnaruwa can enjoy the city’s rich history through the guided tour experience. Experienced local guides lead the way, sharing captivating tales of ancient kings and the city’s cultural heritage.

Guests explore the Royal Palace, admire the colossal Buddha statues at Gal Vihara, and visit the Sacred Quadrangle, marveling at the impressive art and architecture.

Guides provide valuable insights, contextualizing the historical significance of each site. With their expertise, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for Polonnaruwa’s legacy as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The guided tour offers an enriching and informative experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Minneriya National Park and "The Gathering"

Beyond the fascinating historical sites of Polonnaruwa, the tour also includes a visit to Minneriya National Park, known for the unique natural phenomenon of "The Gathering."

Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka, this protected reserve is home to one of the largest gatherings of Asian elephants in the world.

Travelers are taken on a 4×4 safari through the park, guided by experienced naturalists.

Experienced naturalists guide travelers on a 4×4 safari through the park, immersing them in the natural wonders of Minneriya National Park.

The highlight is witnessing the majestic elephants grazing, socializing, and bathing in the park’s natural habitats.

This wildlife experience provides a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka’s diverse ecosystem and the delicate balance of its natural wonders.

Wildlife Sightings and Naturalist Insights

The 4×4 safari through Minneriya National Park allows travelers to witness first-hand the magnificent presence of Sri Lanka’s celebrated elephant herds.

Under the guidance of experienced naturalists, guests can observe the intricate dynamics of these large pachyderms as they graze, socialize, and move through the park’s lush landscapes.

The knowledgeable guides share fascinating insights into the elephants’ behavior, ecology, and role within the delicate ecosystem.

Witnessing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is a truly unforgettable experience, offering a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka’s vibrant wildlife and the importance of conservation efforts.

Tour Inclusions and Logistics

The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation via private jeep, a guided tour within Minneriya National Park, refreshments such as bottled water and lunch, as well as entrance fees for both the national park and the Polonnaruwa ancient city. Travelers can also opt to add a guided tour of the Polonnaruwa ruins for an additional cost of £20.

| Included | Not Included |

| — | — |

| Hotel pickup and drop-off | Gratuities |

| Private jeep transportation | Travel insurance |

| Guided tour in Minneriya National Park | Anything not mentioned under "Included" |

| Bottled water, lunch | |

The tour is not suitable for pregnant women. Travelers are advised to consider this factor when booking.

Customer Feedback and Recommendations

Customers have overall rated this tour 5 out of 5 stars based on 7 reviews.

Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and drivers, who provided insightful commentary on the ancient city and facilitated successful elephant sightings, with herds of up to 40 elephants observed.

While some minor logistical challenges with scheduling were noted, the majority of customers expressed high satisfaction with the tour’s quality and unique experience.

This tour is highly recommended for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and travelers seeking an authentic culture in Sri Lanka.

Common Questions

Are There Any Special Dress Code Requirements for the Tour?

There are no strict dress code requirements, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable, lightweight clothing suitable for the tropical climate. Closed-toe walking shoes are advisable for the Polonnaruwa site tour.

Can We Extend the Duration of the Elephant Safari?

The duration of the elephant safari can be extended, but it may incur additional costs. Travelers should check with the tour operator to inquire about the availability and pricing for extending the safari experience.

Is There an Option to Visit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress?

There’s no mention of a Sigiriya Rock Fortress visit in the tour details provided. The focus appears to be on the Polonnaruwa Ancient City and Minneriya Elephant Safari. To add a Sigiriya stop, you’d need to book a separate tour or customize this one.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?

The tour can be customized to include additional activities like visiting the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator, who’ll work to accommodate their requests within the allotted time and budget.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Lunch?

The tour includes a refreshment stop with a provided lunch, but there’s no mention of specific dietary restrictions. Customers should notify the tour operator in advance of any special dietary needs they may have.

The Sum Up

The Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour combined with a thrilling Minneriya Elephant Safari offers a captivating blend of history and wildlife. Visitors can marvel at the UNESCO-listed ruins of Polonnaruwa and witness the mesmerizing "Gathering" of Asian elephants in their natural habitat. This full-day adventure provides an enriching and unforgettable experience for those seeking to enjoy Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: