Polonnaruwa Heritage Tour: Exploration of Sri Lanka's Ancient Capital from Colombo

Polonnaruwa

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Embark on a captivating heritage tour of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s ancient capital. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site and delve into the rich history and culture of this fascinating city.

Duration: 14 hours

Cancellation: 1 day learn more

Highlights

Polonnaruwa Vatadage - The journey to Polonnaruwa takes around 4 to 5 hours. This charming Stupa House (Vatadage) was originally built before the reign of Nissanga Malla (1187–1196), but he undertook significant renovations. Therefore, the structure you see today is likely his work. (combined with Dalada Maluva)
Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs - The Ibbankatuwa Ancient burial ground is located five kilometers before reaching Dambulla town on the Kurunegala-Dambulla Road. A sign from the Archaeological Department will indicate the turn-off from the main road. The site is accessible by traveling about 500 meters down this road. It was developed into a tourist attraction in 2017 and officially opened to the public.
Dambulla Dedicated Economic Centre - Situated in the Dambulla Secretariat Division of Matale District, in the heart of Dambulla town, this center was established in 1999 to create a wholesale market for vegetables and fruits. A key feature of the DDEC is the direct involvement of farmers in selling their produce.
Dalada Maluwa - The circular structure of Dalada Maluwa, also known as the Terrace of the Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, is a stunning example of 12th-century art and architecture. Built by King Parakrambahu the Great (1164-1196 AD), it was later enhanced and adorned by King Nissankamalla (1198-1206).
Royal Palace of King Maha Parakramabahu - The magnificent Royal Palace, located in the historic city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, was constructed between 1153 and 1186 during the reign of King Mahaparakram Bahu. Due to its historical importance, UNESCO designated the Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu as a World Heritage Site in 1982.
Hetadage - Atadage Dalada Maligaya, the house of the tooth relic of Buddha, was built by King Vijayabahu I (1070-1110). This structure stands on 54 stone pillars, with the tooth relic likely kept on the second floor, which was probably made of wood. (combined with Dalada Maluva)
Rankoth Vehera - Rankoth Vehera is the fourth largest stupa in Sri Lanka. Built by Nissanka Malla (1187-1196), it is one of the most popular tourist attractions, or ‘dagobas,’ in the country.
Gal Vihara - Gal Vihara is a rock temple of Buddha located in the northern part of Sri Lanka, within the UNESCO World Heritage city of Polonnaruwa. It features four rock statues, each depicting different figures of Buddha. The third statue is a standing figure, and the fourth is a reclining figure.
Samudra Parakrama - Parakrama Samudra is a water reservoir consisting of five different lakes: Thopa, Dumbutulu, Erabadu, Boo, and Katu tanks. Also known as King Parakrama’s Sea, it is located in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. Topa Wewa, the oldest reservoir here, was built around 386 AD.
Pothgul Viharaya - Pothgul Viharaya is an ancient library and monastery in the Polonnaruwa district of Sri Lanka. The ruins of this historic library date back to the 12th century. It is believed to have been a Buddhist library complex where Buddhist texts were studied. Today, it stands as a demolished historic site.
Pabalu Vehera - Pabalu Vehera is in excellent condition and is the third-largest dagaba in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. The origin of its unusual shape is unknown. It was erected by a concubine of Parakramabahu the Great (1153-1186 AD). Currently referred to as “Pabalu,” a significant number of glass beads were discovered here. Recently, treasure hunters and invading parties have damaged the top and middle sections of the stupa.
Nissanka Latha Mandapaya - Nissanka Latha Mandapaya is located in the Dalada Maluwa quadrangle of the Polonnaruwa district in North Central Province, Sri Lanka. This structure was built for the recitation and hearing of Buddhist scriptures. The granite pillars are 8.5 feet tall and are uniquely curved in three places. At the center of the platform is a small stupa, also made of stone. The tops of the pillars feature carvings of blooming lotuses, while the rest of the columns resemble stems.
Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre - The Nelum Pokuna, or Lotus Bath, is a small stone bath with a unique design, built in tiers resembling eight-petaled lotuses. This architectural gem is hidden along a secluded road to the northern city, far from the crowds of pilgrims and tourists.
Thivanka Image House - The Buddha statue at Thivanka Pilimage stands about 8 meters tall, although the part above the head has been destroyed. The interior walls of the building are adorned with frescoes depicting the Jataka Stories (previous lives of Buddha before enlightenment). Like most structures from this era, it is built with bricks, including the statue.
Polonnaruwa Siva Devale No.1 - Shiva Devale No. 2 is believed to be the oldest structure in Polonnaruwa, constructed during the South Indian Chola era when the city was founded by Indian invaders. Unlike many other structures in the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, it was built entirely of stone, which is why it remains in a similar condition to when it was first constructed. Look out for the statue of Nandi, the bull, which is 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). Originally named “Rupavathi Stupa,” it is part of Alahana Privena. Its cylindrical surfaces are divided into eight sections with pilasters, and between the pilasters are figures of deities with hands in adoration. According to Paranavithana, the stupa had 16 reliefs of telamons supporting the pseudo-entablature, which is now badly weathered. The two identical stupas south of the Lankathilaka are thought to be built upon the remains of a king and a queen.
Seema Malakaya Temple - Inscriptions from King Nissakamalla have been found on two pillars in the Baddhasima Prasada premises. According to the historical text Mahawamsa, King Parakramabahu constructed this twelve-story structure. The main statement is introduced by a repetition of some of Nissakamalla’s deeds in the inscriptions, and the pavilion at the site was built after his return from the Indian Campaign, as stated in the final clause.

What's Included

Pickup & drop in air-conditioned vehicle
Professional English-speaking expert driver
Complimentary water bottle
King coconut included
Seasonal fruits on offer
Free onboard Wi-Fi (subject to availability)

What's Not Included

Gratuities
Food and drinks, unless specified
Admission to Dalada Maluwa (USD 35 Adult/ USD 25 Child)
Admission to Polonnaruwa Vatadage (USD 35 Adult/ USD 25 Child)
Admission to Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu (USD 35 Adult/ USD 25 Child)
Admission to Atadage (USD 35 Adult/ USD 25 Child)
Admission to Rankoth Vehera (USD 35 Adult/ USD 25 Child)

Additional Information

05:00 AM morning your Friendly Guide Will Meet and pick From Hotel and Start The Journey To ANCIENT CITY POLONNARUWA. Polonnaruwa is a city in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. The second most ancient of Sri Lanka’s kingdoms, Polonnaruwa was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I in the 11th century AD and maintained its status until the 13th century. In 1982 the ancient city of Polonnaruwa was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
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.

Littering & smoking is prohibited inside the vehicle.
Re-entry is not allowed after you leave the venue
How to redeem - Present your voucher and exchange it for a physical ticket
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 favorable 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)
Pickup will be commenced prior to start the tour time; you must contact us to verify your exact pickup time.
Please respect and leave the plants and native wildlife untouched
Deposit trash in designated receptacles
What to Bring - Caps or hats And Sunscreen
The journey from Colombo to Polonnaruwa City will take about 4-5 hrs (1 way).