Ancient Polonnaruwa’s two standout tours get right to the historical heart of this UNESCO site. The practical 4-hour cycling tour covers an efficient 10km route, letting you glide between the most important ruins and stone carvings at a comfortable pace. I especially love this option for combining exercise with sightseeing.
The 2-day Cultural Triangle Tour is my top pick for history buffs, thoughtfully connecting Polonnaruwa with nearby Sigiriya Fortress. Both tours keep groups small and feature guides who really know their stuff.
Let’s explore these excellent tour options in detail.
Key Points
- The Polonnaruwa Cycling Tour offers a guided 4-hour exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, covering approximately 10 km on soft surfaces.
- Ethos of Ceylon’s 2-day cultural tour from Kandy includes visits to the ancient cities of Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya, with a 5-star rating for quality and satisfaction.
- The tours provide comprehensive insights into Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture, with small group sizes for an immersive experience.
- Tour packages include convenient pickup services, all necessary transportation, and entrance fees, ensuring a hassle-free exploration of the Polonnaruwa district.
- Flexible cancellation policies and pre-planned itineraries allow for booking confidence and efficient use of time during the tours.
Polonnaruwa: All Inclusive Ancient City Guided Cycling Tour
Though Polonnaruwa may have been the medieval capital of Sri Lanka, this guided cycling tour offers an immersive experience to explore its well-preserved ancient ruins and captivating stone carvings.
The 4-hour tour, limited to 10 participants, covers approximately 10 km on soft surfaces, allowing travelers to discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site at a leisurely pace.
Highlights include pickup from your hotel by Tuk-Tuk, an English-speaking guide, and included entrance fees.
Travelers can book flexibly, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
However, the tour may not be suitable for pregnant women, those with back or heart problems, or individuals under 3 ft 9 in (120 cm).
Read our full review: Polonnaruwa: All Inclusive Ancient City Guided Cycling Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
From Kandy: Ethos of Ceylon 2-Day Cultural Triangle Tour
Explore the cultural heart of Sri Lanka on this comprehensive 2-day tour from Kandy.
The Ethos of Ceylon 2-Day Cultural Triangle Tour allows you to discover the ancient cities of Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya.
Pickup is available, and the tour is priced at $475 per person for a private group.
With a 5-star rating, this small group tour provides an immersive experience visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites, exploring the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress, and learning about Sri Lanka’s rich history.
Enjoy the convenience of a pre-planned itinerary that includes transportation, entrance fees, and a knowledgeable guide to make the most of your time in the Cultural Triangle.
Read our full review: From Kandy: Ethos of Ceylon 2-Day Cultural Triangle Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Polonnaruwa offers a unique glimpse into Sri Lanka’s ancient history. The guided cycling tour and cultural triangle tour provide visitors with an immersive experience, exploring the ancient city’s well-preserved ruins, sacred sites, and natural landscapes. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or outdoor adventure, these tours ensure you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Polonnaruwa’s rich heritage and the cultural diversity of Sri Lanka.