Set out on a captivating journey through Polonnaruwa’s ancient wonders by bicycle. This immersive experience allows you to discover the city’s storied past up close, from the grandeur of the Royal Palace to the awe-inspiring Gal Viharaya. As you pedal through the verdant landscape, you’ll be transported back in time, marveling at the intricate carvings and towering Buddha statues that have stood the test of centuries. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you’ll uncover the rich cultural heritage that makes this UNESCO World Heritage Site a must-visit destination. Prepare to be enchanted by the magic of Polonnaruwa’s timeless beauty.
Good To Know
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Explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa by bike, visiting the Royal Palace, Gal Viharaya’s Buddha statues, and Vatadage structure in a 4-hour tour.
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Tour priced at €85.70 per person, including tuk-tuk pickup, mountain bike rental, entrance fees, and complimentary refreshments.
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Itinerary covers highlights such as the Nissankamulla Palace, Thuparama and Lankathilaka stupas, and the Parakramabahu Statue.
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Convenient pickup locations available in Girithale and Polonnaruwa, with tuk-tuk transportation and a flexible start time.
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Tour rated positively by previous guests, who praised the knowledgeable guides and the immersive experience of cycling through the historical landmarks.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Polonnaruwa by Bike tour offers an exciting opportunity to explore the ancient city’s UNESCO-listed wonders on two wheels.
Priced from €85.70 per person, this 4-hour adventure includes tuk-tuk pickup, mountain bike rental, and all entrance fees. Highlights include the Royal Palace, Gal Viharaya’s colossal Buddha statues, and the impressive Vatadage structure.
Complimentary refreshments and water keep you fueled throughout the 3.5-hour cycling exploration. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a flexible pickup location, this tour provides an accessible and immersive way to experience the best of Polonnaruwa.
Customer reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and memorable experience.
Itinerary and Highlights
Visitors begin their 3.5-hour exploration of Polonnaruwa with a 9 AM start time after a tuk-tuk pick-up from their hotel.
They’ll witness the grandeur of the Royal Palace and the elegant Nissankamulla Palace. The iconic Gal Viharaya, with its four colossal Buddha statues carved from a single rock, is a mesmerizing sight.
Exploring the ancient Thuparama stupa and the Lankathilaka stupa, visitors gain insight into the region’s rich Buddhist heritage. The Vatadage, a circular relic house, and the towering Rankoth Vehera are architectural wonders.
Inclusions
Included in the tour price are a tuk-tuk for pick-up and drop-off, charges for the mountain bikes, and entrance fees to the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa. The tour also covers fuel surcharge, driver charges, parking fees, and all applicable government taxes. Complimentary refreshments and water are provided throughout the adventure.
| Inclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Transportation | Tuk-tuk pick-up and drop-off |
| Cycling | Mountain bike charges |
| Entrance Fees | Ancient City of Polonnaruwa |
| Taxes & Fees | Fuel, driver, parking, government |
| Refreshments | Complimentary water and snacks |
This comprehensive package ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience exploring the UNESCO-listed wonders of Polonnaruwa by bike.
Pickup Locations
Typically, the tour provider offers two convenient pickup locations – Girithale and Polonnaruwa. Guests can choose to be picked up from their hotel or accommodation in either of these towns.
The tuk-tuk will arrive promptly at 8:00 AM to transport the group to the start of the bike tour. For those staying in Polonnaruwa, the pickup location is directly from the city, making it easy to begin the adventure.
Likewise, guests based in Girithale will be collected from their accommodation before heading to the ancient city. This flexibility ensures a seamless start to the exploration of Polonnaruwa’s remarkable heritage by bicycle.
Important Information
One key piece of important information for guests is to bring a charged smartphone and either a passport or ID card. These items will be needed during the tour. Plus, the tour operator advises guests to come prepared for the bike ride by wearing comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes.
| What to Bring | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Smartphone | Charged |
| ID | Passport or ID card |
| Clothing | Comfortable |
| Footwear | Closed-toe shoes |
| Accessories | Sunscreen, hat, water bottle |
The tours have an overall positive rating, with one review from a guest in France who enjoyed their experience. Guests can expect a memorable journey exploring the ancient city of Polonnaruwa by bike.
Customer Reviews
The tour has an overall positive rating, with one review from a guest in France who thoroughly enjoyed their experience.
Georges, from France, gave the tour 4 out of 5 stars, praising the knowledgeable guides, well-maintained bikes, and insightful exploration of Polonnaruwa’s ancient wonders.
The reviewer appreciated the convenience of the included tuk-tuk transportation and complimentary refreshments, which helped sustain them during the 3.5-hour cycling adventure.
While the reviewer noted a few minor areas for improvement, they concluded that the tour provided an immersive and memorable way to discover the UNESCO-listed ruins, making it a fantastic value for the price.
Exploring Polonnaruwa’s Ancient Wonders
As the sun rises over the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, visitors embark on a thrilling bike tour to uncover the captivating history and architectural marvels that have stood the test of time.
The tour takes them to the Royal Palace, where the grandeur of the past is palpable. Next, they explore the Nissankamalla Palace, marveling at its intricate carvings and elegant design.
The highlight is the Gal Viharaya, home to four colossal Buddha statues carved into the rock. The Thuparama stupa, Lankathilaka, Vatadage, and Rankoth Vehera all bear witness to the city’s remarkable Buddhist heritage.
The tour culminates with a visit to the majestic Parakramabahu Statue, a testament to the city’s bygone glory.
Bike Tour Through Historical Landmarks
Mounting their bikes, the tour participants embark on a captivating journey through Polonnaruwa’s historical landmarks.
With the ancient city as their backdrop, they pedal past breathtaking monuments, each with its own captivating story.
The tour highlights include:
- Exploring the grandeur of the Royal Palace
- Admiring the intricate carvings of the Nissankamalla Palace
- Marveling at the serene Buddha statues of the Gal Viharaya
- Discovering the imposing presence of the Thuparama and Lankathilaka stupas
As they cycle through the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the participants enjoy the rich history and architectural wonders of Polonnaruwa, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing customers flexibility in planning their trip. This policy ensures travelers can easily adjust their plans without penalty if their schedule changes.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for the Bike Tour?
The bike tour doesn’t have any specific age or fitness requirements. However, participants should be able to comfortably ride a mountain bike for the 3.5-hour exploration of Polonnaruwa’s ancient city. The tour is suitable for most able-bodied visitors.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Individual Preferences?
The tour can be customized to suit individual preferences. Guests can request modifications to the itinerary or pace of the tour. The tour operator give you a personalized experience that meets the needs and interests of each participant.
Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?
The tour is available in multiple languages, including English. Customers can inquire about language options when booking the tour to accommodate their preferences and ensure a seamless and informative experience.
Are There Any Safety Precautions Taken During the Bike Tour?
The tour operator takes several safety precautions during the bike tour. Riders wear helmets, follow traffic rules, and are accompanied by an experienced guide who ensures the group’s safety throughout the 3.5-hour exploration of the ancient city.
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The Sum Up
Pedaling through Polonnaruwa’s ancient landscape is a captivating journey that immerses travelers in Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. From the majestic Royal Palace to the awe-inspiring Gal Viharaya, this bike tour promises an unforgettable experience, blending adventure and historical exploration. Discover the city’s timeless wonders, and leave with a deeper appreciation for the resilience and artistry of this remarkable destination.