Polonnaruwa Ancient City TourCulture & Heritage
Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour
Wander the ruins of a medieval royal capital.
North Central Province
Polonnaruwa
A medieval capital of ruins, lakes and carved Buddhas.
Best time: May to SeptemberStay: 1 night (Giritale)
About Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa was the capital of Sri Lanka in the 11th and 12th centuries AD. Its well-preserved ruins sit beside the great Parakrama Samudra, a vast man-made lake, and form another of the island’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Highlights include the Royal Palace and pavilion, the Vatadage, the Gal Vihara rock sculptures and the statue of King Parakramabahu, all within easy reach of each other.
Highlights
Parakrama Samudra lake
Royal Palace and pavilion
Vatadage and Hatadage
Gal Vihara carved Buddhas
Lotus Bath and Tivanka Image House
Things to Do
- Explore the ancient city by vehicle or bicycle
- See the Gal Vihara rock sculptures
- Watch the sunset over the lake
Travel Tips
Allow at least half a day to see the main sites
Dress modestly and carry water
Map
Experiences
Things to Do in Polonnaruwa
Tours
Package 01
Packages That Visit Polonnaruwa
Package 0111-Day Ancient Cities & Hill Country Tour
Highlights
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Yapahuwa, Anuradhapura, Mihintale, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Sinharaja / Udawalawe and a Bentara river cruise.
Includes
Standard BB accommodation (10 nights), air-conditioned vehicle transport, entrance fees.