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Polonnaruwa Tour: Explore Sri Lanka's Ancient City
Negombo
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.
Duration:
14 hours
Cancellation:
24 hours
Highlights
- Negombo - A top city for beach relaxation, offering luxury hotels, mangrove islands, fishing, and more for travelers.
- Polonnaruwa - The main town in Polonnaruwa District, North Central Province, Sri Lanka. Kaduruwela is the new town, while the other part remains the ancient royal city of the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa.
- Dagoba of Thuparama - An ancient Buddhist temple in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, located in Mahamewna park. The Thuparamaya Stupa is the island’s earliest Dagoba, dating back to King Devanampiya Tissa’s reign.
- Dambulla Dedicated Economic Centre - Established in 1999 in Dambulla town to create a wholesale market for vegetables and fruits, allowing more direct farmer participation in selling produce.
- Hetadage - The house of the Buddha’s tooth relic, built by King Vijayabahu I (1070-1110) on 54 stone pillars. The relic was likely kept on the wooden second floor. (20 minutes- combined with Dalada Maluva)
- Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs - An ancient burial ground located five kilometers before Dambulla town on the Kurunegala-Dambulla Road. Developed into a tourist attraction in 2017 and formally opened to the public.
- Royal Palace of King Maha Parakramabahu - Located in Polonnaruwa, this impressive palace was built between 1153 and 1186 during King Mahaparakram Bahu’s reign. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982. (20 Minutes)
- Dalada Maluwa - Also known as the Terrace of the Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, this circular building is a 12th-century architectural marvel built by King Parakrambahu the Great and later enhanced by King Nissankamalla.
- Polonnaruwa Vatadage - This beautiful Stupa House was constructed before Nissanga Malla’s reign (1187–1196) but was significantly renovated by him. (20 minutes- combined with Dalada Maluva)
- Rankoth Vehera - The 4th largest stupa in Sri Lanka, built by Nissanka Malla (1187-1196), and a popular tourist attraction.
- Gal Vihara - Also known as Gal Viharaya, this rock temple of the Buddha is located in Polonnaruwa and was created in the 12th century by Parakramabahu.
- Samudra Parakrama - A water reservoir in Polonnaruwa consisting of five lakes: Thopa, Dumbutulu, Erabadu, Boo, and Katu tanks. Also known as King Parakrama’s Sea, with Topa Wewa being the oldest reservoir, built around 386 AD.
- Pothgul Viharaya - An ancient library and monastery in Polonnaruwa, dating back to the 12th century. It was a Buddhist library complex, now a historic ruin.
- Pabalu Vehera - The third-largest dagaba in ancient Polonnaruwa, built by a concubine of Parakramabahu the Great (1153-1186 AD). Known for its unique shape and glass bead discoveries, though it has been damaged by treasure hunters.
- Nissanka Latha Mandapaya - Located in Dalada Maluwa quadrangle, Polonnaruwa, this structure was built for reciting and hearing Buddhist scriptures. It features 8.5-foot granite pillars with lotus carvings and a small stone stupa.
- Polonnaruwa Nelum pokuna (Lotus Pond) - A uniquely designed stone bath built in tiers of eight-petalled lotuses, located along a secluded road in the northern city.
- Thivanka Image House - Home to an 8-meter Buddha statue, now partially destroyed. The walls are decorated with frescoes of the Jataka Stories. Built with bricks, including the statue.
- Polonnaruwa Siva Devale No.1 - The oldest structure in Polonnaruwa, built during the South Indian Chola era. Made entirely of stone, it remains well-preserved. Look for the statue of Nandi, Lord Shiva’s mount.
- Kiri Vehera - Built by a queen of King Parakramabahu (1153-1186), originally named “Rupavathi Stupa.” Part of Alahana Privena, it features cylindrical surfaces divided into eight parts with deity figures.
- Baddha Seema Malakaya - King Nissakamalla’s inscriptions are found on two pillars here. According to the Mahawamsa, King Parakramabahu built this twelve-story structure, with the pavilion added after Nissakamalla’s return from the Indian Campaign.
What's Included
- Bottled water
- Guided tour at Polonnaruwa with a Multi-Language Specialist
- Professional English-speaking Expert Driver
- Complimentary seasonal fruits
- Free Wifi onboard available upon request
- Comfortable pickup and drop service in an air-conditioned vehicle
What's Not Included
- Food and drinks, unless specified
- Gratuities
- Local Srilankan Guide
- Entrance tickets to Sights
Additional Information
To reach the historic city of Polonnaruwa, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, by early morning, you will be driven there in an air-conditioned vehicle. 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. Learn more about Sri Lankan culture and life style. While on tour, make sure to sample some of the delicious Sri Lankan cuisine; we have a unique palate. 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.
- 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
Location
Negombo
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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