Polonnaruwa Tour: Explore Sri Lanka's Ancient City

Embark on a day excursion from Negombo to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Immerse yourself in Sri Lankan culture, sample delicious cuisine, and explore the stunning historical sites. Book now!

Duration: 14 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Negombo - Early Morning Pack your Breakfast and Visit to the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa.

  • Kurunegala - After the few hours of journey stop for break and start the journey towards Kurunegala

  • Royal Palace of King Maha Parakramabahu - The impressive Royal Palace, located in Sri Lanka’s historic city of Polonnaruwa, was built between 1153 and 1186 during the reign of King Mahaparakram Bahu. Due to its significant historical significance, UNESCO designated the Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu as a World Heritage Site in 1982.

  • Dalada Maluwa - The circular building of Dalada Maluwa, also known as Terrace of the Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, is a beautiful work of art and architecture of the 12th century. It was built by King Parakrambahu the great (1164-1196AD), it was later enhanced and decorated by King Nissankamalla (1198-1206).

  • Vatadage - This lovely Stupa House (Vatadage) was constructed before Nissanga Malla’s (1187–1196) reign, but he carried out significant renovations on it. Thus, what you see today was probably created by him. (combined with Dalada Maluva)

  • Hetadage - Atadage Dalada Maligaya is the house of the tooth relic of Buddha built by King Vijayabahu I (1070-1110). This building is built on 54 stone pillars. The tooth relic has been kept on the second floor probably made out of wood. (combined with Dalada Maluva)

  • Rankoth Vehera - Rankoth Vehera is the 4th largest stupa in Sri Lanka. It was built by the Nissanka Malla(1187-1196) it is one of the most sought after tourist attractions, i.e. ‘dagobas’ of the country.

  • Gal Vihara - Gal Vihara is a rock temple of Buddha which is in the north of Sri Lanka. It is located in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Polonnaruwa. It has four rock statues, each portraying different figures of Buddha. The third one is a standing figure, and the fourth is a reclining figure.

  • Samudra Parakrama - Parakrama Samudra is a water reservoir which consists of five different lakes namely Thopa, Dumbutulu, Erabadu, Boo, Katu tanks. Parakrama Samudra is a water reservoir which consists of five different lakes. It is also known as King Parakrama’s Sea and is in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. Topa Wewa is the oldest reservoir here which was built around 386 AD.

  • Pothgul Viharaya - Pothgul Viharaya is an old library and monastery in the Polonnaruwa district of Sri Lanka. The ruins of this ancient library date back to the twelfth century. It was thought to be a Buddhist library complex where Buddhist writings were studied. Now it is nothing but a demolished historic site.

  • Pabalu Vehera - It is in outstanding condition and is the third-largest dagaba of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. It is unknown where the Pabalu Vehera stupa got its unusual shape. A concubine of the great Parakramabahu the Great erected it ( 1153-1186 AD). Currently, this stupa is referred to as “Pabalu,”
    amount of glass beads were discovered. Recently, invading parties and treasure hunters demolished the stupa’s top and middle sections.

  • Nissanka Latha Mandapaya - Nissanka Latha Mandapaya is located in Dalada Maluwa quadrangle of Polonnaruwa district in North Central Province, Sri Lanka. The purpose of this construction was to recite and hear Buddhist scriptures. The granite pillars are 8.5 feet tall and surprisingly curved at three places. The middle of the platform is a small stupa, which is also made of stone. The top of the pillars has a carving of a blooming lotus, while the test of the columns denotes the structure of a stem.

  • Polonnaruwa Nelum pokuna (Lotus Pond) - The Nelum pokuna or the Lotus bath is a small stone bath of completely unique design, built in tiers of eight petalled lotuses. The jewel of the architecture lies hidden along the lonely road to the northern city, well away from the bus loads of pilgrims and tourists.

  • Thivanka Image House - The Buddha statue at the Thivanka Pilimage is about 8 meters in height but today the part of the statue above the head has been destroyed. The inside walls of the buildings has been decorated with frescoes showing the Jataka Stories (prior births of Buddha before enlightenment). As most other structures of this era, this is too built with bricks including the statue.The Buddha statue at the Thivanka Pilimage is about 8 meters in height but today the part of the statue above the head has been destroyed.

  • Polonnaruwa Siva Devale No.2 - The Shiva Devale No. 2 is thought to be the oldest structure in Polonnaruwa because it was constructed during the South Indian Chola era, when the city was founded by Indian invaders. It had been constructed entirely of stone, in contrast to many of the structures in the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa. This is why the building is still in a similar shape to how it was when it was built hundreds of years ago. Keep an eye out for the statue of Nandi, the bull, Lord Shiva’s mount.

  • Kiri Vehera - The Kiri Vehera of Polonnaruwa is said to have been built by a queen of king Parakramabahu (1153-1186). The original name of this has been “Rupavathi Stupa” and this too is a part of Alahana Privena. Its cylindrical surfaces are divided in to eight parts with pilasters between the pilasters are figures of deities with hands in the attitude of adoration. According to Paranavithana, the stupa had 16 reliefs telamons supporting the pseudo-entablature which was badly weathered. The two identical stupas south to the Lankathilaka is thought to be built upon remains of a king and a queen.

What's Included
  • Complimentary onboard WiFi upon request
  • Selection of seasonal fruits included
  • Bottled water provided
  • Refreshing King Coconut
  • Comfortable pickup and drop service with AC vehicle
  • Expert driver fluent in English
  • Guided tour by a multilingual specialist at Polonnaruwa Ancient City
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
  • Food and Beverages, unless specified
  • Optional Activities
Additional Information

An air-conditioned vehicle will transport you to the historical city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, early in the day. Explore Polonnaruwa, a fascinating ancient city rich with offerings for those interested in archaeology, history, and those keen to gain insight into Sri Lankan traditions and lifestyle. Take the chance to taste unique Sri Lankan dishes that gratify our distinct taste. Pause, savour some seasonal fruits, and replenish your energy. Rest whenever you feel the need, our proficient guides will ensure you visit all the right places. Once this unforgettable day concludes, you will be escorted back to your place of stay.

  • Littering & smoking is prohibited inside the vehicle.
  • Re-entry is not allowed after you leave the venue
  • This activity is not recommended for anyone with impaired physical mobility, certain medical conditions such as high blood pressure, epilepsy, etc.
  • The exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
  • Subject to favourable weather conditions. If cancelled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date.
  • We request all customers carry the Vaccination card while traveling (Digitally or Physically)
  • Deposit trash in designated receptacles
  • What to Bring - Caps or hats And Sunscreen
Location
Negombo
Cancellation Policy

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

Select Date and Tickets
up to 15 guests
1 Adult
October 2024
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