Pedal Through History: Polonnaruwa City Cycling Expedition

Embark on an unforgettable journey back in time with the "Pedal Through History: Polonnaruwa City Cycling Expedition." This guided tour immerses adventurers in the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka’s ancient capital, inviting them to explore iconic sites like the Royal Palace and Gal Vihara’s majestic Buddha statues. Over the course of 10 kilometers, expert guides reveal captivating historical insights, transporting cyclists to a bygone era. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a unique adventure, this cycling expedition promises an unparalleled experience that will leave you eager to discover more.

This experience made our list of the 4 Best Bike Tours In Polonnaruwa District.

Good To Know

• Guided cycling tour exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site of Polonnaruwa, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka.
• Immersive experience visiting the Royal Palace, Gal Vihara’s Buddha statues, and Lankathilaka Temple’s architectural wonders.
• Convenient roundtrip transportation via tuk-tuk and knowledgeable multilingual guides to enhance the cultural learning experience.
• Scenic 10-kilometer cycling journey through Polonnaruwa’s historical and natural landscapes at a leisurely pace.
• Flexible booking and cancellation policy, with an all-inclusive price starting at $85 per person for a 3-hour tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Polonnaruwa City Cycling Expedition offers a guided cycling tour that explores the historic city of Polonnaruwa. Priced from $85 per person, the 3-hour tour covers approximately 10 km on soft surfaces, allowing visitors to enjoy the UNESCO World Heritage site‘s ancient ruins and natural beauty.

Highlights include the Royal Palace, Gal Vihara’s intricate carvings, and the towering Lankathilaka Temple. Roundtrip transportation via tuk-tuk, entrance fees, and all taxes are included, while personal expenses and gratuities are excluded.

Guests must be able to ride a bicycle independently and follow a dress code for the sacred sites. Advance booking is recommended, as the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.

Itinerary and Highlights

This guided cycling expedition through Polonnaruwa’s UNESCO-listed landmarks promises an immersive exploration of the ancient city’s architectural wonders and natural beauty.

After a scenic 20-minute Tuk Tuk ride from Polonnaruwa, cyclists will embark on a roughly 10-kilometer journey, pedaling through the historic site.

Key highlights include the majestic Royal Palace, where Sri Lankan royalty once resided, and the Gal Vihara, an awe-inspiring cluster of Buddha statues carved into massive granite boulders.

Cyclists will also visit the Lankathilaka Temple, an iconic structure with towering brick walls and intricate frescoes.

Throughout the tour, riders will enjoy Polonnaruwa’s captivating history and natural splendor, creating cherished memories of their cycling adventure.

Transportation and Guide

Providing roundtrip transportation from centrally located Polonnaruwa and Giritale hotels, the tour includes a Tuk Tuk ride to the starting point of the cycling expedition.

Experienced guides lead the way, fluent in multiple languages including English, Japanese, Chinese, German, French, Russian, and Arabic. This ensures seamless communication and a personalized experience for all participants.

The guides not only provide historical insights but also ensure the safety and comfort of the group throughout the cycling tour.

With their local knowledge and attention to detail, they enhance the overall enjoyment of exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Polonnaruwa by bicycle.

Included and Excluded

The Polonnaruwa City Cycling Expedition tour includes several key elements to provide a comprehensive and enjoyable experience.

Travelers can expect round-trip transportation from centrally located hotels in Polonnaruwa and Giritale, ensuring a hassle-free journey. The tour also covers entrance fees to the historic sites, allowing visitors to enjoy the ancient ruins without additional costs.

Plus, the services of a knowledgeable guide are included, offering insights into the rich cultural heritage and architectural wonders of Polonnaruwa. However, personal expenses and gratuities are excluded, providing flexibility for travelers to customize their spending.

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Arrival and Dress Code

Travelers are advised to arrive at the designated pickup location in Polonnaruwa at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.

This allows the guide to ensure a punctual start to the cycling tour, which covers a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

When visiting the sacred sites, visitors must adhere to the dress code by covering their shoulders and knees.

This respectful attire is a must, as it honors the cultural and historical significance of the ancient ruins.

Cyclists should also be able to ride independently, as the tour involves approximately 10 km of cycling on soft surfaces through the stunning Polonnaruwa landscape.

Cycling Experience

During the cycling expedition through the UNESCO-protected ruins of Polonnaruwa, participants embark on a scenic journey that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. The 10-kilometer ride on soft surfaces takes visitors past the captivating Royal Palace, the intricate Gal Vihara Buddha statues, and the towering Lankathilaka Temple. Along the way, cyclists can pause to admire the stunning landscapes and enjoy the ancient splendor of this remarkable World Heritage Site.

Experience	Description
Cycling	Approximately 10 km on soft surfaces
Highlights	Royal Palace, Gal Vihara, Lankathilaka Temple
Scenery	UNESCO World Heritage Site, historical ruins, natural beauty
Pace	Leisurely, with opportunities to pause and admire the surroundings

Historical Significance

Polonnaruwa, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka, stands as a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts an array of historical landmarks that tell the story of a bygone era.

The Royal Palace, with its intricate architecture, was once the seat of power for Sri Lankan royalty. The Gal Vihara, a series of colossal Buddha statues carved into granite, showcases the skilled craftsmanship of the past.

The Lankathilaka Temple, with its towering brick walls and vibrant frescoes, offers a glimpse into the artistic brilliance of the time. As you cycle through this captivating landscape, you’ll be transported back in time, immersed in the rich tapestry of Polonnaruwa‘s storied past.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking this captivating cycling tour is made easy with the option to reserve now and pay later. For only $85 per person, explorers can embark on a 3-hour guided adventure through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Polonnaruwa.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers enjoy the flexibility to plan their Sri Lankan journey. The tour includes roundtrip transportation, entrance fees, and a knowledgeable guide who can provide commentary in multiple languages.

Whether seeking an immersive cultural experience or a leisurely ride through stunning landscapes, this cycling expedition offers an unforgettable way to discover the historical wonders of Polonnaruwa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Bicycle?

The tour provides bicycles for participants, so bringing one’s own is not necessary. However, if a visitor prefers using their own bike, they’re welcome to do so as long as it’s in good working condition.

Is This Tour Suitable for Children?

The cycling tour is not specifically designed for children, as it requires independent bicycle riding and covers approximately 10 km. However, families with older, experienced child cyclists may find the tour suitable with proper supervision.

How Challenging Is the Cycling Route?

The cycling route is described as relatively moderate, covering approximately 10 km on soft surfaces. While not overly challenging, riders should be able to cycle independently and comfortably. The tour highlights historical sites, natural beauty, and is suitable for most fitness levels.

Are There Any Rest Stops During the Tour?

The cycling tour includes periodic rest stops along the route, allowing participants to catch their breath, take in the historical sights, and rehydrate. These breaks ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout the 10km journey through Polonnaruwa’s UNESCO-protected archaeological wonders.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, you can extend the tour duration. The standard tour is 3 hours, but you can request a longer cycling expedition to explore more of the UNESCO World Heritage site at an additional cost.

The Sum Up

Enjoy Sri Lanka’s captivating past as you pedal through the historic city of Polonnaruwa. This cycling expedition offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the ancient capital’s remarkable landmarks, from the majestic Royal Palace to the awe-inspiring Gal Vihara Buddha statues. Guided by expert historians, you’ll uncover the rich cultural heritage that has shaped this remarkable destination, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

You can check availability for your dates here: