Polonnaruwa Day Tour From Kandy (Private Tour With Lunch)

Setting out on a Polonnaruwa Day Tour from Kandy promises a captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s ancient history. This private tour showcases the UNESCO World Heritage treasures of the ancient city, providing a chance to explore sites like Gal Vihara and Parakrama Samudra. Beyond the historical landmarks, the tour offers opportunities to take in the local culture, from visiting a Hindu temple to discovering the secrets of spice gardens. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a culturally enriching experience, this tour could be the perfect addition to your Sri Lankan adventure.

Key Points

• Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Polonnaruwa on a private tour from Kandy, including transportation, guided visits, and a traditional Sri Lankan lunch.

• Optional activities include visiting a Matale Hindu Temple, exploring a spice garden, and an exciting safari experience in Minneriya National Park or Hurulu Eco Park.

• Immerse in Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage through visits to local craft workshops, where traditional techniques are showcased.

• Enjoy a full refund for cancellations made up to 24 hours before the tour, ensuring flexibility.

• Customize the tour experience and budget according to personal preferences, with inclusions and exclusions clearly outlined.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Polonnaruwa Day Tour from Kandy is a private tour that takes visitors to explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Priced from $70.00 per person, the tour includes transportation from Kandy, a guided tour, visits to the Matale Hindu Temple and Spice Garden, bottled water, a traditional Sri Lankan lunch, and an optional safari experience.

The tour includes transportation, guided tour, visits to Hindu temple and spice garden, bottled water, lunch, and optional safari experience.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, and they don’t need to pay until they reserve their spot.

The tour lasts one day, providing ample time to discover Polonnaruwa’s historical treasures.

Itinerary Highlights

After being picked up from Kandy, the tour begins with a visit to the Matale Hindu Temple, a spiritual sanctuary nestled in lush greenery.

Travelers then have the option to explore a spice garden, learning about spice cultivation and trade.

The highlight of the day is the exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Polonnaruwa, where visitors marvel at the architectural prowess of Sri Lanka’s medieval rulers.

Key sites include the Gal Vihara, featuring four colossal Buddha statues, and the ancient reservoir of Parakrama Samudra.

Lastly, an optional safari in Minneriya National Park or Hurulu Eco Park allows for wildlife sightings.

Cultural Experiences

Along the tour, travelers have the opportunity to enjoy Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

The itinerary includes visits to the Matale Hindu Temple, a spiritual sanctuary nestled in lush greenery, and a spice garden where visitors can learn about spice cultivation and trade.

Plus, travelers can witness the traditional craftsmanship of wood carving and batik factories, gaining insights into the techniques that have been passed down through generations.

These cultural experiences provide a glimpse into the country’s artistic and spiritual traditions, enriching the overall tour experience.

• Matale Hindu Temple

• Spice Garden

• Wood Carving Factory

• Batik Factory

Polonnaruwa Exploration

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Polonnaruwa is an ancient city filled with historical treasures that captivate visitors.

Key sites include the Gal Vihara, which features four colossal Buddha statues carved out of a single granite rock.

Nearby, the Parakrama Samudra, an ancient reservoir, showcases the architectural prowess of Sri Lanka’s medieval rulers.

Wandering through the ruins, visitors can marvel at the grandeur and skilled craftsmanship that defined this once-thriving capital.

Exploring Polonnaruwa provides a glimpse into the nation’s rich history and the lasting impact of its ancient civilizations.

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Wildlife Safari

Depending on the season and wildlife movements, the tour offers a safari experience in either Minneriya National Park or Hurulu Eco Park.

Depending on the season and wildlife movements, the tour offers a safari experience in either Minneriya National Park or Hurulu Eco Park.

Guests embark on a 4-hour journey to spot diverse wildlife in their natural habitats:

• Search for majestic elephants roaming the grasslands.

• Keep an eye out for elusive leopards prowling through the undergrowth.

• Observe a vibrant array of bird species, from colorful kingfishers to soaring raptors.

• Marvel at the lush, untamed landscapes that provide a home for these remarkable creatures.

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes transportation from Kandy, a guided tour of the sites, visits to the Matale Hindu Temple and Spice Garden, bottled water, and a lunch featuring authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.

The tour also provides a safari experience in either Minneriya National Park or Hurulu Eco Park, depending on the season and wildlife movements.

However, the tour excludes personal expenses, gratuities for the guide and driver, entrance tickets, and anything not mentioned in the itinerary.

Travelers can enjoy a comprehensive exploration of Polonnaruwa’s ancient wonders and wildlife with this all-inclusive day tour from Kandy.

Tour Exclusions

The tour excludes personal expenses, such as souvenirs, additional food and drinks, and any other optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary.

The tour excludes personal expenses like souvenirs, additional food and drinks, and any other optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary.

Participants are responsible for:

• Entrance tickets to historical sites and national parks

• Gratuities for the guide and driver (recommended 10-15% of the tour price)

• Anything not explicitly listed in the "Tour Inclusions" section

Plus, travelers should factor in their own travel insurance, as it isn’t provided as part of the tour package.

These exclusions allow travelers to customize their experience and budget according to their preferences.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Travelers can easily reserve their spot on the Polonnaruwa Day Tour from Kandy by booking online or contacting the tour operator directly.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure, allowing for flexibility in planning. Customers can also take advantage of the "Reserve now & pay later" option, which lets them secure their place without paying anything upfront.

The tour duration is valid for one day, ensuring an immersive experience exploring the UNESCO-listed ancient city and its surrounding natural wonders, without having to rush.

Common Questions

What Is the Group Size for the Private Tour?

The private tour is a customized experience for each individual or family. There’s no set group size, allowing for a more personalized and flexible tour.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Our Interests?

The tour can be customized to the traveler’s interests. The private nature of the tour allows for flexibility in the itinerary to focus on the sites and experiences that most appeal to the individual or group.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Safari?

There are no age restrictions for the safari. Participants of all ages can join the wildlife viewing experience, which offers the chance to spot elephants, leopards, and diverse bird species in their natural habitats.

Can We Extend the Duration of the Polonnaruwa Exploration?

Yes, the duration of the Polonnaruwa exploration can be extended. Travelers can request additional time to explore the ancient ruins and visit more sites within the UNESCO World Heritage Site at an additional cost.

Is the Pick-Up and Drop-Off Location Flexible?

The pick-up and drop-off location is flexible. Customers can arrange for the tour operator to pick them up and drop them off at their preferred location in Kandy, subject to availability and any additional fees.

The Sum Up

The Polonnaruwa Day Tour from Kandy is an immersive journey through Sri Lanka’s ancient history. Guests will marvel at the UNESCO-listed ruins, explore cultural sites, and enjoy a traditional lunch. With convenient transportation and expert guidance, this private tour provides a comfortable and enriching experience for those seeking to discover the rich heritage of Polonnaruwa. The optional wildlife safari adds an adventurous touch to this captivating day trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: