Exploring the ancient city of Polonnaruwa is a must-do for visitors to Sri Lanka. This private guided tour from Colombo provides a comprehensive experience, taking travelers through the UNESCO-listed site’s highlights. With a professional guide to share the rich history, travelers can marvel at the Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddhas, uncover the grandeur of the royal palace, and enjoy the serene beauty of the Parakrama Samudra reservoir. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an unforgettable cultural adventure, this tour promises an insightful and memorable journey.

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Key Points

A private guided tour of the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Polonnaruwa from Colombo, highlighting the Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddhas and the royal palace.
Priced from $180 for up to 3 people, with a 14-hour duration and including hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and an expert guide.
Explore the serene Parakrama Samudra reservoir and enjoy free time for photos and insights from the guide.
Visitors should bring a valid passport, comfortable walking shoes, and be prepared to remove footwear and cover shoulders and knees at temples.
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with health conditions, and prohibited items include pets, drones, and alcohol.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a private guided exploration of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa from Colombo. Priced from $180 for up to 3 people, the 14-hour tour includes hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and a special guide at the UNESCO-listed site.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours prior, and payment can be made later. Highlights include the Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddhas, the historic royal palace, and the Parakrama Samudra reservoir.

The tour provides bottled water, seasonal fruits, and an English-speaking driver. Entrance fees and gratuities are extra. Booking now secures your spot without advance payment.

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Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with pickup from Colombo, transporting guests to the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Polonnaruwa.

During the 3-hour guided tour, visitors will explore the site’s ruins and admire the famous Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddhas. They’ll discover the historic grandeur of the royal palace and experience the serene Parakrama Samudra reservoir.

Throughout the tour, the expert guide provides insights into the city’s rich heritage. Guests have free time to wander and capture memorable photos of this archaeological wonder.

The tour culminates with a return to Colombo, concluding an immersive journey through Polonnaruwa’s captivating past.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This private Polonnaruwa tour includes bottled water, an English-speaking professional driver, hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation (shared), and seasonal fruits (subject to availability).

Plus, a special guide will accompany visitors at the ancient city. However, the tour excludes food and drinks (unless specified), gratuities, and entrance fees for sites.

Visitors should bring a valid passport, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, a camera, snacks, sunscreen, rain gear, and a charged smartphone.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with health conditions, or those with motion sickness.

Important Information and Requirements

Visitors must bring their current valid passport, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, a camera, snacks, sunscreen, rain gear, comfortable clothes, cash, a charged smartphone, and binoculars.

This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart or back problems, recent surgeries, allergies, or motion sickness.

When visiting temples, guests must remove their footwear and hats, and cover their shoulders and knees.

The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions, and pickup and drop-off are limited to Kandy city, with additional charges for different locations.

Prohibited items include pets, drones, food in the vehicle, alcohol, glass objects, fireworks, nudity, and noise-making activities.

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Conditions and Considerations

The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions, and alternative dates will be made available if the tour is canceled due to poor weather. Pickup times may vary, so it’s best to contact the provider for the exact timing. The pickup and drop-off locations are limited to Kandy city, and additional charges may apply for different locations.

| Prohibited Items | Reason |

|——————|——–|

| Pets | Safety |

| Drones | Regulations |

| Food in the vehicle | Cleanliness |

| Alcohol | Liability |

| Glass objects | Safety |

| Fireworks | Safety |

| Nudity | Propriety |

| Noise-making activities | Disturbance |

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Polonnaruwa Ancient City Private Day Tour (Hidden Gems)

Exploring the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa Ancient City

Although a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Polonnaruwa’s ancient ruins offer visitors a chance to step back in time and witness the grandeur of Sri Lanka’s medieval capital.

Highlights include the impressive Gal Vihara, featuring four colossal Buddha statues carved from a single rock.

Explorers can discover the royal palace’s historic architecture and wander the scenic Parakrama Samudra reservoir.

The guided tour provides insight into the city’s significant role in Sri Lanka’s history, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the splendor of this archaeological marvel.

Marveling at the Gal Vihara Rock-Cut Buddhas

Towering over the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, the Gal Vihara’s awe-inspiring rock-cut Buddhas captivate visitors.

These colossal statues, carved directly from the granite cliffs, showcase the exceptional artistry and craftsmanship of the Polonnaruwa period.

Highlights include:

The Samadhi Buddha, a mesmerizing 7-meter-tall figure depicting the Buddha in a state of deep meditation
The Partially Destroyed Buddha, a striking half-finished statue that reveals the sculptor’s techniques
The Recumbent Buddha, an impressive 14-meter-long statue depicting the Buddha’s final moments before enlightenment
The Standing Buddha, a majestic 7-meter-tall figure showcasing the Buddha’s serene and powerful presence
The Carvings and Inscriptions, intricate reliefs and inscriptions that provide insights into the site’s history and significance.

Discovering the Historic Grandeur of the Royal Palace

As visitors stroll through the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, the majestic Royal Palace complex emerges, a testament to the grandeur and power of the kingdom’s bygone era.

The palace’s massive stone foundations, ornate pillars, and intricate carvings showcase the architectural prowess of the Polonnaruwa rulers.

Travelers can explore the palace’s sprawling grounds, including the audience hall, bathing pools, and royal gardens.

Through these remnants, one can vividly imagine the daily life and rituals that once unfolded within these walls.

The Royal Palace’s historic splendor provides a captivating glimpse into the realm of Polonnaruwa’s former sovereigns.

Common Questions

What Is the Language of the Guided Tour?

The tour includes an English-speaking guide. English is the primary language used during the guided tour of the Polonnaruwa ancient city. The tour ensures clear communication and understanding for English-speaking travelers.

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can be customized to an extent. Customers can discuss their preferences with the tour provider, who may be able to accommodate special requests or adjust the tour schedule within reasonable limits.

Are There Any Discounts for Group Bookings?

Yes, there are discounts for group bookings. The tour is priced from $180 per group of up to 3 people, so larger groups can save money by booking together.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

No, bringing one’s own food and drinks is not allowed on this tour. The tour includes bottled water, but all other food and drinks must be purchased separately. Participants are advised to bring snacks if desired.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour Instead of a Shared One?

Yes, there is an option for a private tour. The tour pricing states it’s available "from $180.00 per group (up to 3 people)," indicating a private tour is offered rather than a shared one.

The Sum Up

The private Polonnaruwa Ancient City Guided Tour from Colombo offers an immersive experience into Sri Lanka’s rich history. Travelers can marvel at the UNESCO-listed site’s impressive Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddhas, explore the majestic royal palace, and discover the serene Parakrama Samudra reservoir. With air-conditioned transport and expert narration, this tour ensures an unforgettable journey through one of Sri Lanka’s archaeological wonders.