Polonnaruwa Sight Seeing Tour and Minneriya Elephant Safari

Exploring the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and embarking on a thrilling elephant safari in Minneriya National Park makes for an unforgettable adventure. Visitors can marvel at the exquisite Gal Vihara Buddha statues, uncover the grandeur of the Royal Palace complex, and witness the awe-inspiring "Gathering" of wild elephants. This tour blends cultural and wildlife experiences, offering a unique perspective on Sri Lanka’s rich heritage and natural wonders. Prepare to be captivated by the seamless fusion of history and nature.

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Key Points

The Polonnaruwa Sight Seeing Tour includes a visit to the UNESCO-listed ancient city, showcasing Sri Lanka’s medieval grandeur and architectural marvels.
The tour features the Gal Vihara with its impressive rock-cut Buddha statues and the Royal Palace complex, providing insights into the site’s historical significance.
The Minneriya Elephant Safari offers an opportunity to observe wild elephants in their natural habitat, including the unique "Gathering" phenomenon at the reservoir.
The tour package includes a private air-conditioned jeep, pickup and drop-off, and the entry fees for Polonnaruwa and the national park.
Additional options, such as an official guide for Polonnaruwa and a local culinary experience, are available at an extra cost.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This Polonnaruwa Sight Seeing Tour and Minneriya Elephant Safari offers an immersive experience in Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.

Priced from $87.78 per person, the 8-hour tour includes a private air-conditioned jeep, pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, and a national park guide.

Explore the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa Ancient City, marvel at the rock-cut Buddha statues, and discover the man-made Parakrama Samudra reservoir.

Then, venture into Minneriya National Park for a guided safari to spot wild elephants, including the renowned "Gathering".

A Sri Lankan lunch can be enjoyed at a local restaurant, for an additional cost.

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Polonnaruwa Ancient City

As the first stop on the tour, visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa Ancient City, a remarkable showcase of Sri Lanka’s medieval grandeur.

The site features the Gal Vihara, an impressive collection of four rock-cut Buddha statues, and the Royal Palace complex, which once housed the administrative and religious centers of the kingdom.

The Gal Vihara, a remarkable display of four rock-cut Buddha statues, and the Royal Palace, the former administrative and religious heart of the kingdom.

Travelers can also discover the Parakrama Samudra, a massive man-made reservoir that demonstrates the advanced hydraulic engineering of the era.

Throughout the visit, guests will be captivated by the site’s historical significance and architectural marvels.

Gal Vihara and Royal Palace Complex

Within the Polonnaruwa Ancient City, visitors can explore the Gal Vihara and the Royal Palace complex. The Gal Vihara features four remarkable rock-cut Buddha statues that showcase the skill of medieval sculptors. Visitors can admire the massive seated Buddha, the reclining Buddha, and the standing Buddha figures. The Royal Palace complex, once the seat of power, now stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the era. Visitors can wander through the ruins and imagine the grandeur that once filled these halls.

| Feature | Description |

|———|————-|

| Gal Vihara | Rock-cut Buddha statues |

| Royal Palace | Seat of power, architectural marvel |

| Polonnaruwa Ancient City | UNESCO-listed medieval site |

Parakrama Samudra

Parakrama Samudra, a man-made reservoir, stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of Polonnaruwa’s medieval rulers.

This massive 2,500-hectare tank was constructed during the reign of King Parakramabahu the Great in the 12th century. The reservoir’s purpose was to regulate water supply and irrigation for the surrounding farmlands.

Today, it’s a scenic highlight, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s hydraulic engineering feats. Strolling along the banks, one can admire the tranquil waters and the lush greenery that surrounds this impressive ancient structure, a true marvel of Polonnaruwa’s architectural legacy.

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Minneriya Elephant Safari

The Minneriya Elephant Safari offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to witness the majestic pachyderms in their natural habitat.

Guests embark on a guided jeep safari through the Minneriya National Park, led by knowledgeable naturalists.

The experience includes:

Spotting wild elephants, observing the magnificent "Gathering," and learning about their behavior from expert guides.

Spotting wild elephants roaming freely in their natural environment.
Observing the magnificent "Gathering" phenomenon, where hundreds of elephants congregate around the park’s reservoir.
Learning about the elephants’ behavior and ecology from the expert guides.
Enjoying the serene, picturesque landscapes that comprise the park’s lush, verdant surroundings.

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Polonnaruwa Sight Seeing Tour and Minneriya Elephant Safari

The Gathering

During the peak of the dry season in Minneriya National Park, visitors witness one of nature’s most remarkable spectacles – the Gathering.

Hundreds of wild elephants converge on the shores of the Minneriya reservoir to drink, bathe, and socialize. This annual event is a result of the drying up of water sources in the surrounding areas, forcing the elephants to migrate to the reservoir.

Witnessing the Gathering is an unforgettable experience, as the majestic creatures roam freely, interacting with each other and providing a glimpse into their intricate social dynamics.

Scenic Experience

Beyond the captivating wildlife encounters, the Polonnaruwa Sight Seeing Tour and Minneriya Elephant Safari offers a scenic experience that truly immerses visitors in the stunning natural beauty of Sri Lanka’s countryside.

The tour showcases:

Lush, verdant landscapes blanketed in vibrant greenery. Picturesque vistas of rolling hills, winding rivers, and glistening reservoirs.

Lush, verdant landscapes blanketed in vibrant greenery.
Picturesque vistas of rolling hills, winding rivers, and glistening reservoirs.
Charming rural settings with traditional dwellings and farming communities.
Breathtaking panoramas that highlight the region’s diverse and unspoiled ecosystems.

This scenic journey complements the cultural and historical discoveries, creating a well-rounded experience for travelers to cherish.

Inclusions and Additional Costs

The tour package includes a private air-conditioned jeep, pickup and drop-off from the specified locations, and an English-speaking driver.

Plus, the entry fees for Polonnaruwa and the national park are covered. However, an official guide for the Polonnaruwa tour can be arranged for an additional $18 per person. This optional service provides more in-depth historical and cultural insights.

While the Sri Lankan lunch isn’t included in the tour price, guests can enjoy a local culinary experience at their own expense during the tour.

Common Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a local Sri Lankan lunch is available for purchase at an additional cost if desired. The tour package does not include any meals.

Is There a Dress Code for the Polonnaruwa Site and Safari?

There is no strict dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable, lightweight clothing and closed-toe shoes. Modest attire is recommended when visiting religious sites like Polonnaruwa. Sun protection and insect repellent are also advised for the safari.

Can I Use My Own Camera Equipment During the Tour?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to use their own camera equipment during the tour. However, it’s always best to check with the tour operator for any specific guidelines or restrictions on equipment usage prior to the tour.

Are There Any Opportunities for Souvenir Shopping Along the Way?

Yes, there are opportunities for souvenir shopping during the tour. The itinerary includes stops at local craft shops and markets where visitors can browse and purchase traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts, artworks, and other souvenirs.

Can I Request a Specific Type of Vehicle for the Tour?

Yes, you can request a specific type of vehicle for the tour. The tour provider offers air-conditioned private jeeps, so you can discuss your preferences with them when booking.

The Sum Up

The Polonnaruwa Sightseeing Tour and Minneriya Elephant Safari offer a captivating blend of cultural and wildlife experiences. Explore the UNESCO-listed ancient city, marvel at the Gal Vihara Buddha statues, and witness the awe-inspiring "Gathering" of wild elephants in Minneriya National Park. This private, air-conditioned tour with expert guides provides a seamless and unforgettable adventure in Sri Lanka’s rich heritage and natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: