Exploring the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa is a captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. This guided tour from Kandy offers a comprehensive 12-hour experience, immersing visitors in the UNESCO-listed wonders that once served as the island nation’s medieval capital. With a knowledgeable driver leading the way, travelers can discover the iconic Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddhas, the impressive royal palace, and other remarkable archaeological sites. Priced at a reasonable rate, this tour provides comfort, convenience, and a chance to uncover the fascinating history that lies within Polonnaruwa’s weathered stones. The journey may be long, but the rewards it promises are truly captivating.
Good To Know
- A guided tour from Kandy to the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa ruins, showcasing Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage, priced at €108.32 for up to 3 participants.
- The 12-hour excursion includes exploration of the ancient city’s key attractions, such as the Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddhas and the royal palace.
- The tour package includes bottled water, an English-speaking driver, and seasonal fruits, with pickup and drop-off available from Kandy or Matale.
- The tour is not suitable for individuals with health conditions or mobility impairments, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
- Flexible cancellation and reserve now, pay later options are available, providing convenience and peace of mind for trip planning.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The guided tour from Kandy to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa whisks visitors away on a journey through Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
Priced at just €108.32 for a group of up to 3 participants, this 12-hour excursion offers unbeatable value.
Travelers can conveniently arrange pickup from Kandy or Matale, and after a 3.5-hour drive, they’ll explore the UNESCO-listed ruins, including the awe-inspiring Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddhas, the royal palace, and the Parakrama Samudra reservoir.
With ample free time for sightseeing and walking, this tour caters to history buffs and cultural enthusiasts alike.
The package includes bottled water, an English-speaking driver, and seasonal fruits, making it a well-rounded experience.
Itinerary and Highlights
From the pickup locations in Kandy and Matale, the 3.5-hour drive takes visitors on a captivating journey to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.
The guided tour showcases the UNESCO-listed ruins, including the awe-inspiring Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddhas, the impressive royal palace, and the vast Parakrama Samudra reservoir.
Guests enjoy free time to explore the site, with 4 hours allocated for sightseeing and walking.
The tour provides an immersive experience, with a knowledgeable guide sharing the rich history and cultural significance of this remarkable ancient city.
Visitors are then dropped off at their original pickup locations in Kandy and Matale, having experienced the highlights of this remarkable destination.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes bottled water, a professional English-speaking driver, hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, and seasonal fruits (subject to availability).
These amenities aim to ensure a comfortable and convenient journey. However, the tour excludes food and drinks (unless specified) as well as entrance fees for the sites. Visitors are responsible for their own meals and site admissions.
Plus, gratuities for the driver and guide aren’t included in the tour price. Guests are encouraged to bring any necessary medications and dress appropriately for the temples, as removing footwear and covering shoulders and knees are required.
Health and Safety Requirements
Not suitable for individuals with heart problems, mobility impairments, back problems, high blood pressure, or recent surgeries, the tour involves moderate walking. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended to explore the UNESCO-listed ancient ruins. Participants must have a valid passport on the day of travel.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Physical Ability | Moderate walking involved |
| Footwear | Comfortable walking shoes |
| Documentation | Valid passport |
| Restrictions | No oversize luggage, food/drinks, alcohol, glass objects, fireworks, or nudity allowed |
The tour’s health and safety considerations ensure an enjoyable and accessible experience for visitors to the Polonnaruwa ancient city.
Important Information
Aside from the physical requirements, there are a few important points to consider when booking the Polonnaruwa ancient city tour.
The dress code for temples requires visitors to remove their footwear and hats and cover their shoulders and knees.
Pickup times may vary, so it’s best to contact the operator for exact details.
The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions, and alternative dates are available if it’s canceled due to poor weather.
Certain items, like oversize luggage, food, drinks, alcohol, glass objects, fireworks, and nudity, aren’t allowed in the vehicle.
Adhering to these guidelines ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience at the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa ruins.
Pickup and Drop-off Locations
Picking up and dropping off participants at their preferred locations is a key part of the Polonnaruwa ancient city tour.
Travelers can be picked up from either Kandy or Matale, allowing for maximum convenience. The drive to the historic site takes approximately 3.5 hours, giving guests ample time to relax and prepare for the fascinating guided exploration ahead.
After a captivating tour of the UNESCO-listed ruins, including the iconic Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddhas, the group will be returned to their original pickup points, concluding the day’s adventure.
This seamless transportation service ensures a stress-free and enjoyable experience from start to finish.
Free Cancellation and Refund
Travelers have the flexibility to cancel their Polonnaruwa ancient city tour booking up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund. This policy provides peace of mind and allows for last-minute changes in plans.
The hassle-free cancellation and refund process is a welcome feature that enhances the overall booking experience. Some key benefits of this policy include:
- Stress-free trip planning
- Ability to adjust itinerary if needed
- Avoidance of non-refundable fees
- Confidence in securing a full refund
This flexible cancellation policy demonstrates the tour operator’s commitment to customer satisfaction and prioritizing the needs of travelers.
Reserve Now & Pay Later
The Reserve Now & Pay Later option gives travelers the flexibility to secure their Polonnaruwa ancient city tour without the need to pay upfront.
This convenient feature allows you to book your excursion and hold your spot, then pay later when you’re ready. It’s a great way to plan your trip in advance without tying up your funds immediately.
With this option, you can lock in the tour date and price, then focus on finalizing the rest of your itinerary.
It’s a hassle-free way to ensure you don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore the UNESCO-listed ruins of Polonnaruwa at your own pace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour does not allow passengers to bring their own food and drinks on the vehicle. However, bottled water is provided as part of the tour’s inclusions. Any additional food or beverages must be purchased separately.
Is the Tour Available on All Days of the Week?
The tour is available on all days of the week, providing flexibility for travelers. However, it’s important to check with the operator for the exact pickup times, as these may vary depending on the day.
What Is the Maximum Group Size Allowed on the Tour?
The maximum group size allowed on the tour is up to 3 participants. The tour is priced at €108.32 per group, making it a cost-effective option for small groups exploring the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.
Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour if Needed?
The tour’s duration is fixed at 12 hours, but guests can’t extend it beyond that timeframe. However, they’ll have 4 hours of free time to explore the ancient city at their own pace during the tour.
Do I Need to Purchase Entrance Tickets in Advance?
The entrance tickets to the ancient sites aren’t included in the tour price. Travelers should purchase them upon arrival to gain access to the UNESCO-listed ruins during the guided exploration of the Polonnaruwa archaeological park.
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The Sum Up
The Polonnaruwa Ancient City Guided Tour from Kandy offers an immersive cultural experience, allowing visitors to explore the UNESCO-listed ruins and marvel at the impressive rock-cut Buddhas. With a knowledgeable driver, comfortable transportation, and convenient inclusions, this tour provides a seamless and enriching journey through Sri Lanka’s captivating history, making it a must-consider option for those seeking to uncover the country’s remarkable heritage.