Polonnaruwa: A Glimpse into Sri Lanka's Ancient Past

Polonnaruwa, the second capital of ancient Sri Lanka, captivates travelers with its rich history. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it showcases a treasure trove of well-preserved ruins, reflecting the remarkable achievements of Sri Lankan civilization from the 11th to 13th centuries.

At the heart of Polonnaruwa, visitors find an impressive array of ancient monuments. The majestic Gal Vihara, with its intricately carved rock sculptures of the Buddha, highlights the artistry and devotion of the period. Additionally, the Royal Palace complex and the Parakramabahu Samudra—a vast reservoir built by King Parakramabahu I—demonstrate the advanced engineering and agricultural practices that supported this thriving kingdom.

Biking or cycling through the UNESCO archaeological site enhances the experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the seamless blend of nature and architecture. Stunning stupas, ancient temples, and intricate stone carvings await at every turn. Moreover, Polonnaruwa's lush greenery and tranquil lakes create a serene atmosphere, perfect for exploration.

For those eager to connect with local culture, nearby villages offer a glimpse into traditional Sri Lankan life. Here, visitors can savor authentic cuisine and witness age-old crafts. Ultimately, Polonnaruwa, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, promises an enriching experience. This destination resonates with the enduring spirit of Sri Lanka, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

Key Attractions:

• A UNESCO World Heritage Site: Polonnaruwa's designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site underscores its exceptional cultural and historical value. Thus, exploring the ancient ruins—grand palaces, temples, and monuments—provides insight into the lives of its past inhabitants.
• Somawathiya National Park: Discover this peaceful national park, home to diverse wildlife and lush greenery. Here, you might spot large gatherings of elephants in their natural habitat, all free of charge!
• Angammedilla National Park: Unlike more popular parks, Angammedilla offers a tranquil experience, perfect for wildlife viewing and nature walks without the crowds.
• Flood Plain National Park: Experience the unique biodiversity of this floodplain, which is home to various birds, mammals, and reptiles.
• Dimbulagala Temple: Visit this rock temple for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and a peaceful atmosphere.

Adventure Activities:

• Padalling Catamaran Rides: Glide through the serene waters of Giritale or Parakramabahu Samudraya on a relaxing catamaran ride. Enjoy birdwatching and watch for elephants along the way!
• Jeep Safaris: Embark on charter safaris in nearby national parks such as Angammedilla, Floodplain, Wasgamuwa, and Somawathiya. Spot elephants and other fascinating creatures during your adventure.
• Bird Watching: Discover a diverse range of bird species in these national parks, including migratory and endemic birds.
• Rafting on the Maweli Ganga: Experience the thrill of white-water rafting on the Maweli Ganga River, one of Sri Lanka's most popular rafting destinations.

Convenient Pick-Up and Drop-Off Options to Polonnaruwa

To ensure a seamless and stress-free journey to Polonnaruwa, we offer flexible pick-up and drop-off options tailored to your needs. Our Service Oriented drivers are registered professionals with the Sri Lanka Tourist Board, ensuring you receive the highest level of service. Choose from the following convenient options:

• Airport Pickup: We can arrange for a comfortable and reliable vehicle to pick you up directly from Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) or from Palali International Airport in Jaffna (JAF), ensuring a smooth start to your journey.
• Hotel Pickup: If you're already staying in Polonnaruwa, we can pick you up from your hotel or other nearby locations.
• Customizable Drop-Off: We can arrange for a convenient drop-off location at the end of your stay, whether it's back to the airport or another destination of your choice.

Let us handle the logistics, so you can focus on enjoying your adventure in Polonnaruwa. Select the date from drop down menu below to reserve your vehicle or contact us to book your pick-up and drop-off services and ensure a hassle-free journey.

Rent a Car
- Per day

The price is calculated on 100 Kms per day. When the vehicle is returned the payment will be settled according to the additional Kms driven.

Charter Flights
from Ratmalana Airport

On this page, you could reserve a 12 seater charter flight from Ratmalana Airstrip to few destinations. Best way to explore a distant destination as a group ...

Charter Flights
from Katunayake Airport

On this page, you could reserve a 12 seater charter flight from Katunayake Airport to few destinations. Best way to explore a distant destination as a group ...

Helicopter Ride from/to
Colombo

This is a day helicopter ride from Colombo to Batticaloa and back. Four seater & 6 seater helis are available. Travel like a King
 ...

Visit Somawathi National Park

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the mesmerizing Somawathiya National Park, where the wonders of nature and rich history intertwine seamlessly. As you traverse the ...

Polonnaruwa City Tour -
Half Day

In this Polonnaruwa city tour you will learn about ancient settlement shifting strategy, architecture and building materials, influence of Hinduism, ancient hospitals and ...

Polonnaruwa City Tour -
Full Day

In this Polonnaruwa city tour you will learn about ancient settlement shifting strategy, architecture and building materials, influence of Hinduism, ancient hospitals and ...

Wasgamuwa National Park -
Full day Safari

If you are just nearby Wasgamuwa National Park, this safari drive is very strait forward. The sighting of wild elephants is very common in the park. Unlike any other parks in ...

Wasgamuwa National Park -
Half day Safari

If you are just nearby Wasgamuwa National Park, this safari drive is very strait forward. But to reach the park from Polonnaruwa, it needs 100 kms drive, 77 KMs from Dambulla ...

Dimbulagala Temple & Namal Pokuna Archaeological Site

Dimbulagala Temple and Namal Pokuna are another off the beaten trek archaeological site. And it is also a perfect trekking site to a mountain peak with a fabulous 360 ...

Sri lankan Cookery Lessons
– 3 hrs

Welcome to our Sri Lankan cookery lesson, where the vibrant flavors and rich culinary traditions of this stunning island come to life! We can host this cooking lesson in all ma ...

Reserve Your Cycle
–  per day

Cycling offers an unforgettable way to discover the diverse landscapes, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. With CCT Sri Lanka, a trusted travel partner who takes care of all your ...

Book Your Polonnaruwa Adventure With a Certified Guide Today:

Discover the captivating charm of Polonnaruwa and explore the diverse attractions it has to offer. Let us help you plan your unforgettable holiday to this enchanting destination in Sri Lanka. When you choose our services, you can rest assured that you're in the hands of experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing you with a memorable and enjoyable journey.