Day tour to Polonnaruwa From Kandy by Aaliya Tours
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10h
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About this experience
Explore the Ancient Wonders of Polonnaruwa with Aaliya Tours!
Join Aaliya Tours on a captivating day trip to Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle and an expert driver, knowledgeable in both local history and safe travel.
Visit iconic landmarks such as Gala Vihara, Lankatilaka Temple, Polonnaruwa Ruins, and the Archaeological Museum, where you'll discover the ancient splendor of this once-mighty kingdom. After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, continue exploring Rankot Vihara, Tivanka Image House, and Thuparama Gedige.
This affordable, personalized tour offers a rich cultural experience, bringing history to life without compromising comfort or safety.
Book now for a day full of adventure and discovery in Sri Lanka’s ancient heartland!
Available options
Private Day Tour
Exploring Polonnaruwa Ancient : Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Polonnaruwa, including royal palaces, temples, statues, and the famous Gal Vihara Bud<br/>Duration: 10 hours<br/>Air-conditioned Car/Van/Buss: Air-conditioned Car/Van (depending on group size)<br/>English-speaking chauffeur : English-speaking driver/guide, entrance fees not included unless specified<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Driver/guide
Day tour as per itinerary
Transport by private vehicle
Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)
Detailed itinerary
1
Step back in time as you explore the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with grand palaces, stone temples, and centuries-old statues. Visit the Polonnaruwa Museum to understand the rich history before walking among the Royal Palace, Gal Vihara’s iconic Buddha statues, and the impressive Parakrama Samudra reservoir. A must-visit for culture seekers, history lovers, and photographers alike!
What's not included
Entrance Ticket - 30 USD
Heritage sites guide(optional) - 25 USD
Available languages
Guide guide
NO
SV
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.7
3 reviews
5★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Dress code when you entered to the all temple, the nee and shoulder should be covered
Important notes
• The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
• Total Tour duration until back to your hotel minimum 10 hours
About Kandy
Kandy, the last royal capital of the ancient kings' era of Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic. Nestled in the hills, it offers a cooler climate and lush landscapes, making it a must-visit destination.
Top Attractions
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)
This temple houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha and is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world. It's a major attraction for both locals and tourists.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Kandy Lake (Bogambara Lake)
A picturesque lake in the heart of Kandy, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride. The lake is surrounded by beautiful gardens and historic sites.
Nature
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free (boat rides may have a small fee)
Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya
One of the largest and most beautiful botanical gardens in Asia, featuring a vast collection of plants, trees, and flowers. It's a great place for nature lovers and photographers.
Nature
2-3 hours
Moderate
Udawatta Kele Sanctuary
A forest reserve adjacent to the Temple of the Tooth, offering a peaceful retreat with walking trails, wildlife, and birdwatching opportunities.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (small fee for guided tours)
Kandy Esala Perahera
A grand festival held annually in August, featuring a vibrant procession of dancers, drummers, and elegantly decorated elephants. It's one of the most famous cultural events in Sri Lanka.
Cultural
Multiple days
Free (special seating may have a fee)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kottu Roti
A popular street food made with chopped flatbread, vegetables, and meat or seafood, stir-fried with spices.
Dinner
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.
Rice and Curry
A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of steamed rice served with a variety of curries, including vegetable, meat, and fish curries.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.
Hoppers (Appa)
A bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg cooked in the center.
Breakfast/Dinner
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.
String Hoppers (Idiyappa)
A traditional dish made from rice flour and coconut milk, steamed to form a bowl-like shape, often served with coconut sambal.
Breakfast/Lunch
Vegetarian.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Elephant watching
Tea plantation tours
Boat rides on Kandy Lake
Tea tasting
Spas and wellness centers
Visiting temples and historic sites
Attending cultural performances
Best Time to Visit
January to April
This period offers pleasant weather with clear skies, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The Esala Perahera festival in August is a major highlight.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Sinhala, Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Kandy is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions to avoid petty crime and scams.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Bandaranayake International Airport • 100 km
By train
Kandy Railway Station
By bus
Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Kandy. They are affordable but can be crowded and uncomfortable for long journeys.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PickMe
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Central Kandy
Peradeniya
Daluwala
Day trips
Nuwara Eliya
65 km • Full day
Known as 'Little England' for its colonial architecture and cool climate, Nuwara Eliya is a picturesque town surrounded by tea plantations and waterfalls. It's a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a cooler climate.
Sigiriya
100 km • Full day
Home to the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The climb to the top offers stunning views and a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich history.
Dambulla
80 km • Full day
Home to the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring five beautifully decorated caves with numerous Buddha statues and murals.
Festivals
Esala Perahera • August
Vesak • May (date varies)
Kandy Perehera • August (following the Esala Perahera)
Pro tips
- Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
- Take the scenic train journey from Colombo to Kandy for a memorable experience.
- Try local street food like kottu roti and wood apple juice for an authentic culinary experience.
- Hire a local guide for a deeper understanding of Kandy's history and culture.
- Attend a cultural dance show to experience the rich traditions and heritage of the region.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
