Day Excursion To Ancient City Polonnaruwa

Colombo , Sri Lanka

Day Excursion To Ancient City Polonnaruwa

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(1 reviews)

12h - 14h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

By early morning, you will be driven by an air-conditioned vehicle, Historic city of Polonnaruwa, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will discover why Polonnaruwa is one of the most stunning old cities and why it has so much to offer archaeologists, history buffs, and people who just want to learn more about Sri Lanka. Discover more about Sri Lankan culture and local’s life style. While on tour, make sure to Taste some of the delicious Sri Lankan cuisine; As we have a unique Taste of plates. Take a break, enjoy some seasonal fruits, and revitalize yourself. Rest as much as you need to, and our experts will take you directly where you need to go. After a memorable day, you'll return to your lodging. After a memorable day, you'll return to your accommodations.

Available options

Day Excursion To Ancient City Polonnaruwa

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Bottled water

Complimentary WiFi Excess During the Travel (Subjected To Availability)

Seasonal Fruits

Transport by private vehicle

Professional & Expert Driver ( ENGLISH )

Detailed itinerary

The Gal Vihara, also known as Gal Viharaya and originally as the Uttararama, is a rock temple of the Buddha situated in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa in North Central Province, Sri Lanka. It was fashioned in the 12th century by Parakramabahu

Located in the Dambulla Secretariat Division of Matale District, in the center of Dambulla town started in 1999 to establish a wholesale market for vegetables and fruits. One important feature of the DDEC is thus a more direct participation of the farmers is selling farm produce.

Thuparamaya is an ancient Buddhist temple in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Located in the sacred area of Mahamewna park, the Thuparamaya Stupa is the earliest Dagoba to be constructed in the island, dating back to the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa

Ibbankatuwa Ancient burial ground lies five kilometres before the Dambulla town on the Kurunegala-Dambulla Road. An archaeological Department board will indicate the turn off from the main road. The site is reached by traveling about 500m in to this road. The site was developed in to a tourist attraction in 2017 and was formally open to the public.

The Rock Temple of Dambulla, called Jumbukola Vihara (Dambulla Cave Temple) in the (Mahavamsa)-the principal Pali Chronicle of Sri Lanka, is situated about forty seven miles north west of Kandy, the last capital of the Sinhalese kings, on the main road to Anuradhapura. Dambulla is a scent of unique interest. Its rock temples are the most extensive in the Island, and one of the most ancient, and in the highest state of preservation and order.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities

Local Srilankan Guide

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

AR DE EN IT FR TA ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Comfortable walking shoes recommended for this tour.

All visitors to Buddhist and Hindu temples are expected to remove footwear and hats. Also shoulders and knees should be covered

The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions

A current valid passport is required on the day of travel

Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date

What to Bring - Caps or hats, camera, And Sunscreen

Deposit trash in designated receptacles

Please respect and leave the plants and native wildlife untouched

Pickup will be commenced prior to start the tour time; you must contact us to verify your exact pickup time.

We request all customers carry the Vaccination card while traveling (Digitally or Physically)

This activity is not recommended for anyone with impaired physical mobility, certain medical conditions such as high blood pressure, epilepsy, etc.

About Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling commercial capital, is a vibrant blend of modern life and colonial charm. With its diverse culture, rich history, and tropical beauty, the city offers everything from historic sites and religious landmarks to lively markets and beautiful beaches.

Top Attractions

Galle Face Green

A scenic promenade along the Indian Ocean, popular for kite flying, evening strolls, and street food.

Beach 1-2 hours Free

National Museum of Colombo

Sri Lanka's largest museum, showcasing the country's rich history and cultural heritage.

Museum 2-3 hours LKR 1,000 (foreigners)

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara

An ancient Buddhist temple with significant historical and religious importance.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Beira Lake

A scenic lake in the heart of Colombo, offering boat rides and beautiful views.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (boat rides may have a small fee)

Colombo Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

A historic building transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination.

Shopping 1-3 hours Varies by shop

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rice and Curry

A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries made from vegetables, meat, or fish.

Main Dish Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Hoppers (Appa)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.

Breakfast/Dinner Vegetarian, can be made vegan without egg.

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made from chopped roti (flatbread) cooked with vegetables, meat, or fish, and spices.

Dinner/Snack Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Lamprais

A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables cooked in banana leaves.

Main Dish Non-vegetarian, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Popular Activities

Hiking Water sports Wildlife safaris Beach activities Spa treatments Yoga Temple visits Museum tours

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This period offers the best weather for visiting, with warm temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions.

28-32°C 82-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night

Colombo is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Be cautious of pickpocketing, bag snatching, and overcharging by taxis and vendors.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and guides
• Agree on fares before using taxis or tuk-tuks
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Bandaranaike International Airport • 35 km south of Colombo

By train

Colombo Fort Station

By bus

Bastion Street Bus Terminal, Colombo Central Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Colombo Fort Cinnamon Gardens Galle Face Pettah

Day trips

Kandy

115 km • Full day

Kandy, the last capital of the ancient kings' era, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and scenic beauty.

Galle

120 km • Full day

Galle is a historic coastal city known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dutch Fort, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage.

Negombo

35 km • Half day

Negombo is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant fishing industry.

Festivals

Vesak • May (full moon day) Esala Perahera • July or August (full moon day) Christmas • December 25

Pro tips

Use app-based taxi services like Uber or PickMe for reliable and transparent pricing
Carry small denominations of cash for markets and street vendors, as change may be limited
Bargain politely when shopping at markets and with street vendors, as prices are often negotiable
Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience, but be cautious of food hygiene and choose busy stalls with high turnover
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat