Medieval Polonnaruwa stands as one of Sri Lanka’s most impressive archaeological sites. These well-organized guided tours, ranging from half-day to full-day experiences, showcase the UNESCO site’s magnificent Buddhist sculptures, palace ruins, and ancient reservoirs. Tours depart regularly from major tourist hubs including Galle, Kandy, and Bentota.
I’m particularly fond of the 6-hour guided tours that include air-conditioned transport – they provide just enough time to see the key monuments while avoiding the midday heat. The expert guides really bring the ancient capital’s stories to life, and at around $55, they offer good value.
Let’s explore the best-rated Polonnaruwa tours for your travel planning.
Key Points
- Guided cycling tours through Polonnaruwa’s UNESCO World Heritage site offer immersive experiences, with options ranging from 4 to 16 hours in duration.
- Tours provide expert insights into Sri Lankan history, offering in-depth understanding of Polonnaruwa’s cultural heritage and architectural wonders.
- Tour packages typically include hotel pickup, air-conditioned transportation, and well-maintained bikes, ensuring convenience and comfort for travelers.
- Highlights of the tours include admiring the Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddhas, exploring royal palaces, and visiting the Parakrama Samudra reservoir.
- Booking options feature flexible cancellation policies, the ability to reserve now and pay later, and easy online booking processes, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Polonnaruwa: Guided Cycling Tour With Tuk Tuk Transfers
One of the best ways to explore the historic city of Polonnaruwa is through a guided cycling tour. This 4-hour private tour covers approximately 10 kilometers of gentle terrain, allowing visitors to enjoy the UNESCO World Heritage site.
Guests will be picked up from their hotel by tuk-tuk and taken to the start of the tour, where they’ll hop on well-maintained bikes to cycle through the well-preserved ruins, stupas, and remnants of royal palaces and temples.
Along the way, an English-speaking guide will provide informative commentary on the city’s rich history, enabling participants to marvel at the grandeur of the ancient architecture.
The tour includes breaks, photo stops, and a return to the hotel via tuk-tuk. Priced from $55 per person, this cycling adventure offers excellent value, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Based on 3 reviews, the tour has an impressive 4.7/5 rating, with guests praising the quality of the bikes and the guide’s expertise.
Read our full review: Polonnaruwa: Guided Cycling Tour With Tuk Tuk Transfers Review
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Polonnaruwa Ancient City Guided Tour From Galle
Exploring the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Polonnaruwa from Galle is a captivating 16-hour guided tour that takes visitors through the well-preserved ruins, rock-cut Buddhas, and royal palace remnants.
Priced at SEK 2,185 for a group of up to 3 participants, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, and a professional English-speaking driver.
Along the way, travelers will discover the Gal Vihara’s impressive rock-cut Buddha statues and the majestic Parakrama Samudra reservoir.
The guided sightseeing portion lasts 4 hours, leaving ample free time to explore the ancient city at one’s own pace. Bottled water, seasonal fruits, and a dedicated guide for the site are provided, while entrance fees and gratuities are excluded.
Guests are advised to dress appropriately, removing footwear and covering shoulders and knees when visiting Buddhist and Hindu temples.
The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, those with health conditions, or individuals with motion sickness.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Polonnaruwa Ancient City Guided Tour From Galle Review
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Guided Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour From Kandy
Travelers seeking to uncover the rich history of Polonnaruwa can embark on a guided tour from Kandy, which offers a comprehensive exploration of the UNESCO-listed ancient city.
One popular option is the “Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Polonnaruwa Day Tour” at $145 for a group of up to 3 people. This small-group excursion provides pickup from Kandy and takes visitors through the iconic sites, including the ancient royal city of Polonnaruwa.
For those with more time, the “3-Day Tour to Discover Anuradhapura and Sigiriya” covers Polonnaruwa as part of a private group experience, priced at $599 for up to 3 people.
Alternatively, the “Exclusive: Sigiriya Fortress & Polonnaruwa Guided Tour” offers a comprehensive 10-hour tour with skip-the-line access, priced at $125 per person.
Regardless of the option chosen, these guided tours from Kandy ensure a seamless and enriching exploration of Polonnaruwa’s well-preserved ruins and historical significance.
Read our full review: Guided Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour From Kandy Review
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Polonnaruwa Ancient City Guided Tour From Bentota
Although Bentota is located on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, travelers can still enjoy a comprehensive guided tour of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.
The “Polonnaruwa: All Inclusive Ancient City Guided Cycling Tour” is a popular 4-hour option that allows visitors to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site by bike. This small-group tour includes pickup from Bentota, guiding, and all necessary equipment.
Alternatively, the “Polonnaruwa: Private Guided Cycling Tour” offers a more personalized experience, also with pickup from Bentota.
For those seeking a more in-depth exploration, the “Exclusive: Polonnaruwa Ancient City exploration by Tuk-Tuk” is a 4-8 hour tour that provides a unique perspective.
Travelers can also combine a visit to Polonnaruwa with other nearby attractions, such as the Sigiriya Fortress, on a full-day tour from Bentota.
These comprehensive options, ranging from $55 to $125 per person, allow visitors to discover the rich history and architectural wonders of Polonnaruwa at their own pace.
Read our full review: Polonnaruwa Ancient City Guided Tour From Bentota Review
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Polonnaruwa Ancient City Guided Tour From Hikkaduwa
As an alternative to the Bentota-based tours, visitors staying in Hikkaduwa can opt for the “Polonnaruwa: Private Guided Cycling Tour” from Hikkaduwa.
This 4-hour cycling tour provides an immersive experience exploring the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. The tour is priced from $69.87 per person and offers pickup service.
Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, travelers will cycle through the UNESCO-listed archaeological site, discovering well-preserved ruins, temples, and royal palaces.
Highlights include the iconic Gal Vihara, a series of four massive Buddha statues carved into granite, and the Thuparamaya, the oldest Buddhist dagoba in Sri Lanka.
The tour also covers the ancient Parakrama Samudra reservoir and the iconic Polonnaruwa Vatadage, a unique circular relic house.
With a high rating of 4.8, this cycling tour offers an active and engaging way to explore Polonnaruwa’s rich cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Polonnaruwa Ancient City Guided Tour From Hikkaduwa Review
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Polonnaruwa Ancient City Guided Tour From Kaluthara
For those visiting from Kalutara, a guided tour of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa offers a captivating opportunity to explore Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
The 3-day tour, priced at $599 for a private group of up to 3 people, provides a comprehensive experience, covering the key attractions of Anuradhapura and Sigiriya in addition to Polonnaruwa.
During the 8-hour tour, visitors will be immersed in the grandeur of the ancient royal city, walking through the well-preserved ruins and learning about the region’s storied past.
The tour, rated 4.8 out of 5, allows for a deep dive into the archaeological wonders of Polonnaruwa, from the iconic Gal Vihara rock carvings to the majestic Rankoth Vehera stupa.
Travelers can also opt for a more active exploration, with a 4-hour guided cycling tour through the ancient city, priced at $95 per person.
This unique experience offers a chance to discover Polonnaruwa’s hidden gems while enjoying the breeze and the picturesque surroundings.
Read our full review: Polonnaruwa Ancient City Guided Tour From Kaluthara Review
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Polannaruwa Ancient City Guided Tour From Kandy
Travelers visiting from Kandy can embark on a comprehensive 12-hour guided tour to explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. The tour, priced at €11,426 for up to 3 participants, includes a 3.5-hour drive to the historical site and a guided sightseeing excursion lasting 4 hours.
Visitors will have the opportunity to marvel at the Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddhas and the royal palaces, as well as explore the Parakrama Samudra reservoir.
Participants should note that the tour involves a moderate amount of walking, and comfortable shoes are recommended. It’s also important to cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples and remove footwear and hats.
Travelers are advised to bring a hat, camera, cash, and a charged smartphone, but oversized luggage, food, drinks, alcohol, glass objects, and explosives aren’t allowed.
The tour has received a 5/5 rating based on two reviews, with praise for the punctual drivers, knowledgeable guides, and accommodating service for elderly participants.
Lunch at a local restaurant can be arranged for an additional fee.
Read our full review: Polannaruwa Ancient City Guided Tour From Kandy Review
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Private Polonnaruwa Ancient City Guided Tour From Colombo
Departing from Colombo, travelers can embark on a comprehensive 14-hour private guided tour to explore the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Polonnaruwa.
Priced from Kč 4,304 per group (up to 3 participants), this tour offers a wealth of experiences, including admiring the Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddhas, discovering the grandeur of royal palaces, and visiting the Parakrama Samudra reservoir.
Highlights include a guided cycling tour through the ancient streets, providing an immersive sightseeing experience.
The tour also includes expert insights into Sri Lankan history, as well as the convenience of hotel pickup, drop-off, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Travelers should come prepared with comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and appropriate attire for visiting temples.
With a flexible cancellation policy and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour presents an excellent opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of Polonnaruwa.
Read our full review: Private Polonnaruwa Ancient City Guided Tour From Colombo Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Duration of the Guided Tour?
The average duration of a guided tour is typically around 2-3 hours, providing visitors with ample time to explore the historical sites and learn about the area’s rich cultural heritage from the knowledgeable guide.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tours?
There are generally no age restrictions for the guided tours in Polonnaruwa. Visitors of all ages can participate, though some activities may have recommendations or requirements based on physical abilities. It’s advisable to check with the tour operator for any specific age guidelines.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Most tour providers allow you to customize the itinerary to your preferences. They’ll work with you to design a tour that meets your interests and needs, ensuring you have an enjoyable and personalized experience.
Do the Tours Include Transportation to and From Polonnaruwa?
Yes, most guided tours in Polonnaruwa include transportation to and from the site. Travelers can typically customize their itinerary to ensure they visit the key attractions that interest them most during the tour.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available for Group Bookings?
Many tour companies offer group discounts and package deals for guided tours of Polonnaruwa. Prices can vary, so it’s best to inquire with specific operators about their group booking policies and any special offers they may have available.
The Sum Up
Polonnaruwa offers a range of guided tours for visitors to explore its ancient city. Whether you’re looking to cycle, take a tuk-tuk, or have a private guide, there are options to suit different preferences. These tours provide an opportunity to discover the impressive archaeological site and learn about the history of this former capital of Sri Lanka.