Fom Colombo: Sigiriya Rock & Ancient City of Polonnaruwa

Set out on a captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage with a guided tour from Colombo to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Enjoy the grandeur of these well-preserved monuments, from the Royal Palace to the awe-inspiring Gal Vihara. Witness the stunning vistas atop Sigiriya’s summit and uncover the secrets of Sri Lanka’s storied past. With the comfort of a luxury vehicle and an expert guide, you’ll be swept away by the beauty and history that await. Prepare to be captivated by the wonders that lie ahead.

Good To Know

• This tour offers a comprehensive day trip from Colombo to explore the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• The tour includes roundtrip transportation in a luxury air-conditioned vehicle, English or German-speaking guide, and entrance fees to the two historic sites.
• At Polonnaruwa, visitors can discover the well-preserved Royal Palace, Gal Vihara, and other architectural marvels from the 12th century medieval capital.
• The tour culminates with a visit to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, where guests can climb to the summit and admire the panoramic views.
• The package offers flexible cancellation policies and all-inclusive pricing, ensuring a hassle-free and immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a captivating exploration of Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Priced at K4,404 per person, this 12-hour journey departs from Colombo, Mount Lavinia, and Wellawatte, with complimentary hotel pickup. Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot with no upfront payment.

The tour includes an air-conditioned luxury vehicle, an English/German-speaking guide, and refreshments. Entrance fees to both Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa are covered, though lunch isn’t included.

Travelers are advised to bring their charged smartphones and valid identification for this immersive cultural experience.

Itinerary and Highlights

The 12-hour tour kicks off with an early morning pickup from the hotel at 5:30 AM.

After a scenic drive, you’ll arrive at the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Polonnaruwa around 10 AM.

Set out on a captivating 3.5-hour guided tour, exploring the Royal Palace, Nissankamulla Palace, and iconic landmarks like the Gal Vihara, Thuparama stupa, and Rankoth Vehera.

You’ll marvel at the intricate carvings and architectural wonders of this medieval capital.

Next, you’ll head to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a 660-foot-tall wonder built in the 5th century.

Ascend to the ruins of the ancient palace, admiring the breathtaking water gardens and the famous lion carving along the way.

Transportation and Comfort

Travelers will be chauffeured in an air-conditioned luxury private vehicle throughout the tour. This ensures maximum comfort as they journey between the tour’s main sites.

An English or German-speaking guide will accompany the group, providing insights and historical context during the sightseeing portions.

The tour package also includes the fuel surcharge, driver charges, and parking fees, so there are no hidden costs.

Complimentary refreshments and bottled water will be provided, keeping guests hydrated and energized.

All government taxes are factored into the package price, making for a seamless and worry-free experience.

Entrance Fees and Meals

Entrance fees for the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa are included in the tour package, allowing visitors to fully enjoy these historic wonders without additional costs. However, lunch at a local restaurant is not part of the package, giving travelers the flexibility to explore the region’s culinary delights on their own. While gratuities for the guide and driver are not included, visitors can show their appreciation for the exceptional service provided throughout the day.

Included	Not Included
Sigiriya Rock Fortress Entrance Fee	Lunch at Local Restaurant
Ancient City of Polonnaruwa Entrance Fee	Gratuities

More Great Tours Nearby

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Soaring 660 feet above the surrounding landscape, Sigiriya Rock Fortress stands as a testament to the ingenuity and ambition of King Kashyapa, who built this magnificent structure in the 5th century.

Visitors can explore the ancient palace ruins, marvel at the intricate water gardens, and gaze in awe at the imposing lion carving that guards the entrance.

The climb to the summit offers breathtaking panoramic views, allowing visitors to enjoy the rich history and stunning natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

With its well-preserved archaeological wonders and captivating narratives, Sigiriya Rock Fortress promises an unforgettable cultural and visual experience for all who venture to its lofty heights.

Polonnaruwa UNESCO Site

As one explores the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, they are immediately struck by the grandeur and historical significance of this 12th-century marvel. The city’s impressive ruins, including the Royal Palace, Gal Vihara, and Rankoth Vehera, provide a captivating window into Sri Lanka’s illustrious past. Visitors can wander through the well-preserved archaeological sites, marveling at the intricate carvings, towering stupas, and remnants of palatial structures that once housed the kingdom’s rulers. This remarkable UNESCO site offers a glimpse into a bygone era, inviting visitors to step back in time and enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.

Site	Highlights
Royal Palace	Expansive ruins of the former royal residence
Gal Vihara	Magnificent Buddha statues carved from a single granite rock
Lankathilaka	Impressive brick structure with ornate stone carvings
Rankoth Vehera	Towering stupa with well-preserved architectural details

Royal Palace and Monuments

The Royal Palace complex in Polonnaruwa stands as a magnificent testament to the architectural prowess and regal ambitions of Sri Lanka’s 12th-century rulers.

The Nissankamulla Palace, with its intricate carvings and elegant columns, showcases the sophistication of the kingdom’s artisans.

The Gal Viharaya, a series of colossal Buddha statues carved directly into granite, evokes a sense of serene spirituality.

The Lankathilaka temple, with its soaring brick walls and ornate decorations, exemplifies the fusion of religious and royal elements.

These grand structures, coupled with the Vatadage and the iconic Parakramabahu Statue, paint a vivid picture of Polonnaruwa’s storied past, inviting visitors to step back in time and enjoy the grandeur of a bygone era.

Important Information

With the grand monuments and palaces of Polonnaruwa now explored, visitors can turn their attention to the practical considerations of the tour.

Bringing a charged smartphone and passport ensures smooth transitions throughout the day. The itinerary is subject to change, but the main highlights of Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa are guaranteed.

Travelers can rest assured that all government taxes and transportation costs are covered, allowing them to fully enjoy the ancient wonders.

The tour’s flexibility, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, provides peace of mind for those seeking to maximize their Sri Lankan adventure.

• Charged smartphone
• Passport or ID card
• Itinerary subject to change

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Visit Other Sites During the Tour?

While this tour focuses on the highlights of Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya, visitors may have the opportunity to explore other nearby sites during their free time or by arranging additional activities with the tour operator. The itinerary can be customized to suit individual interests.

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The tour may not be optimal for young children due to the extensive walking and climbing involved at Sigiriya Rock Fortress. However, the knowledgeable guide and comfortable transportation make the experience suitable for families if the children are active and interested in history.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?

The tour company offers discounted group rates for bookings of 4 or more people. Families and larger groups can save significantly on this comprehensive day trip to Polonnaruwa and the impressive Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, you can customize the itinerary to suit your preferences. The tour operator is flexible and happy to modify the schedule based on your interests and needs. Just let them know your desired changes when booking.

What Are the Weather Conditions Like During the Tour?

The weather during the tour is generally warm and sunny, perfect for exploring the ancient sites. Comfortable clothing and sun protection are recommended, as the heat can be quite intense at times throughout the day.

The Sum Up

This captivating tour from Colombo to Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Polonnaruwa offers an immersive experience into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. Witness the majestic Sigiriya, a UNESCO-listed wonder, and explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, marveling at its well-preserved monuments. With luxury transportation, an expert guide, and seamless logistics, this journey promises an unforgettable adventure, transporting you back in time to uncover the wonders of this enchanting destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: