Discover the rich tapestry of Sri Lanka’s history through an exhilarating bike tour of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Departing from Dambulla or Sigiriya, this 5-hour adventure offers a unique opportunity to explore the captivating ruins of the 12th-century capital, immersing oneself in the architectural wonders and cultural heritage that have stood the test of time. From the majestic Royal Palace to the awe-inspiring Gal Viharaya rock carvings, the journey promises to reveal the captivating stories that have shaped this UNESCO World Heritage Site. With comfortable transport, knowledgeable guides, and refreshing amenities, this tour invites travelers to uncover the mysteries that lie within the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.
Good To Know
- This 5-hour bike tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the 12th-century ruins and architecture in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.
- The 3.5-hour bike ride covers key highlights like the Royal Palace, Gal Viharaya, and Parakramabahu Statue, providing insights into Sri Lanka’s rich history.
- The tour includes round-trip transportation from Dambulla or Sigiriya, and amenities like high-quality bikes, a knowledgeable guide, refreshments, and entrance fees.
- Flexible cancellation policies and a "reserve now & pay later" option make the booking process convenient for travelers.
- Exploring Polonnaruwa by bike allows visitors to enjoy the grandeur of the ancient capital and its impressive architectural marvels.
Tour Overview
The ancient city of Polonnaruwa is an extraordinary destination that visitors can explore by bicycle. This 5-hour tour takes guests on a 3.5-hour bike ride through the historic ruins, offering an up-close look at the grandeur of 12th-century Sri Lankan architecture and culture.
Priced from $95 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation from nearby hotels, use of a mountain bike and cycling guide, refreshments, and all entrance fees. Highlights include the Royal Palace, Gal Viharaya, and Parakramabahu Statue.
The tour operates in English, with a live guide, and offers free cancellation with a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance. Visitors need only bring a charged smartphone and their passport or ID card.
Itinerary Highlights
Tuk-Tuk pick-up from the hotel kicks off the 5-hour tour at 8 AM, leading guests to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.
Over the next 3.5 hours, guests explore the city’s key sites by bicycle, experiencing the grandeur of 12th-century Sri Lankan history and architecture.
They’ll visit the majestic Royal Palace, the impressive Nissankamulla Palace, the iconic Gal Viharaya rock carvings, and several significant stupas, including the Thuparama, Lankathilaka, and Rankoth Vehera.
The tour also includes a stop at the Vatadage and the impressive Parakramabahu Statue, providing a comprehensive look at Polonnaruwa’s well-preserved ruins and monuments.
The tour concludes with a return to the hotel at 1 PM.
Pickup and Cancellation
Hotel pick-up is available from select locations across Dambulla, Sigiriya, Habarana, and Kandalama.
This convenient service ensures a seamless start to your adventure exploring the ancient city of Polonnaruwa by bike.
The tour also offers a full refund if you need to cancel at least 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility and peace of mind.
- Pickup locations include hotels in Dambulla, Sigiriya, Habarana, and Kandalama
- The tour includes complimentary transportation in an air-conditioned luxury vehicle
- Cancellations made 24 hours or more before the tour date are eligible for a full refund
Included Amenities
Complimentary water and snacks are provided throughout the tour, ensuring participants stay hydrated and energized as they explore the ancient wonders of Polonnaruwa. The tour also includes:
| Inclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Transportation | Air-conditioned luxury vehicle for comfortable travel |
| Equipment | High-quality mountain bikes and a knowledgeable cycling guide |
| Fees | Entrance fees to Polonnaruwa, parking, fuel surcharge, driver charges, and all government taxes |
These thoughtful amenities enhance the overall experience, allowing guests to fully enjoy the rich history and architecture of the 12th-century city without worrying about the logistics.
What to Bring
Participants are encouraged to bring a charged smartphone to capture the stunning vistas and historic landmarks encountered during the bike tour. The ancient city of Polonnaruwa offers an incredibly photogenic backdrop, making a smartphone an essential accessory to document the experience.
Plus, visitors should bring:
- A valid passport or ID card for entry into the archaeological site
- Comfortable, breathable clothing suitable for cycling and exploring outdoors
- Sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, to stay comfortable during the excursion
With these items packed, guests can fully enjoy the beauty and history of Polonnaruwa’s ancient wonders as they cycle through the remarkable 12th-century ruins.
Booking Information
To secure a spot on the bike tour through Polonnaruwa’s ancient wonders, travelers can conveniently reserve their place without upfront payment.
The booking process allows visitors to check availability for their desired date and number of participants. This reserve now & pay later option ensures travelers can lock in their tour without the need for immediate payment.
Once the booking is confirmed, guests simply pay upon arrival, making the planning process stress-free.
With flexible cancellation policies offering full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance, travelers can book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if necessary.
Exploring Polonnaruwa
Tuk-tuk pick-up from the hotel marks the start of the day’s adventure, as travelers embark on a captivating 3.5-hour bike exploration of Polonnaruwa’s ancient wonders.
The cycling guide leads the way, unveiling the grandeur of this 12th-century Sri Lankan capital. Key highlights include:
- The Royal Palace, showcasing the architectural prowess of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom
- The stunning Gal Viharaya, home to four colossal Buddha statues carved from a single granite rock
- The Lankathilaka stupa, a towering monument that exemplifies the region’s rich religious heritage
With each turn of the pedal, visitors enjoy the captivating history and magnificent structures that have stood the test of time, creating an unforgettable experience.
Experiencing Sri Lankan History
The ancient city of Polonnaruwa captivates visitors as they pedal through its historic streets, seeing the grandeur of Sri Lanka’s 12th-century capital.
The Royal Palace, an architectural marvel, showcases the opulence and power of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom.
At the Gal Vihara, awe-inspiring Buddha statues carved from a single granite rock stand tall, embodying the region’s deep Buddhist heritage.
Landmarks like the Lankathilaka stupa and the Vatadage offer a glimpse into the ingenuity of the city’s builders.
As travelers explore these relics, they gain a profound appreciation for the rich history that has shaped the island nation of Sri Lanka.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Bike Instead?
While you’re welcome to bring your own bike, the tour package includes a mountain bike and cycling guide. Using the provided equipment ensures a seamless experience exploring Polonnaruwa’s ancient wonders without the hassle of arranging your own transportation.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour is suitable for children, though the 3.5-hour bike ride may prove challenging for younger participants. The tour provides mountain bikes and a cycling guide, making it accessible for families with older children.
Are There Any Additional Fees Not Included?
The tour doesn’t mention any additional fees beyond what’s included. The price covers transportation, equipment, refreshments, and all entrance fees to the Polonnaruwa sites. Travelers won’t have to pay any extra costs during the tour.
What if I Have Special Dietary Requirements?
The tour operator would be happy to accommodate any special dietary requirements. Guests can notify the team in advance, and they’ll ensure appropriate snacks and refreshments are provided during the bike tour of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.
Is There a Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t mention a maximum group size, so it’s likely flexible. Participants can check the available dates and number of spots remaining when booking to ensure the group size meets their preferences.
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The Sum Up
Exploring the ancient city of Polonnaruwa by bike is an unforgettable adventure that allows visitors to enjoy Sri Lanka’s rich history and cultural heritage. The 3.5-hour bike ride through the UNESCO World Heritage site offers a unique perspective, showcasing the magnificent ruins and awe-inspiring rock carvings. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and refreshments, this tour provides a comprehensive and captivating experience for anyone interested in the fascinating history of this former capital.