Enjoy the captivating history and architectural grandeur of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with this all-inclusive day tour from Kandy. Set out on a guided exploration of the ancient royal city, marveling at the impressive Royal Palace complex and the colossal Buddha statues of the Gal Vihara. Savor a picnic amidst the ruins, savoring the flavors of local delicacies as you take in the serene surroundings. With wheelchair-friendly transportation, multilingual guides, and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour promises a seamless and enriching experience. Uncover the stories that whisper from the weathered stones and discover why Polonnaruwa has captivated visitors for centuries.
Good To Know
- An all-inclusive day tour from Kandy to the historic Polonnaruwa Ancient City, covering key sites like the Royal Palace, Gal Vihara, and Polonnaruwa Museum.
- Flexible cancellation policy and private group tour options available, ensuring a seamless and accessible experience for travelers.
- Guided exploration of the city’s majestic ruins and colossal Buddha statues, providing insights into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
- Inclusive amenities such as air-conditioned transportation, bottled water, and a delicious local lunch served amidst the ancient ruins.
- Multilingual tour guides and a UNESCO World Heritage Site experience for history enthusiasts and explorers.
Tour Overview
This all-inclusive day tour from Kandy takes visitors on an immersive journey to explore the majestic ruins and cultural heritage of Polonnaruwa, the former capital of Sri Lanka.
Priced from $141.14 per person, the tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing travelers to reserve now and pay later.
Covering key sites like the Polonnaruwa Ancient City, Gal Vihara, and Polonnaruwa Museum, the tour provides a comprehensive experience.
Accessibility is ensured, with the option of a private group tour and wheelchair-friendly transportation.
With a duration of 1 day, this tour grants visitors the opportunity to explore the rich history and architectural wonders of this ancient city.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with a pickup from Kandy, whisking visitors away to the enchanting Polonnaruwa Ancient City.
Here, they’ll embark on a guided tour, exploring the majestic Royal Palace complex, the sacred Quadrangle, and the serene Gal Vihara with its colossal Buddha statues.
The tour also includes a visit to the Parakrama Samudra reservoir and the Polonnaruwa Museum, where travelers can explore the city’s cultural heritage and archaeological discoveries.
Throughout the journey, guests will have the opportunity to savor local delicacies during a picnic amidst the ancient ruins, surrounded by the captivating history of this former Sri Lankan capital.
Exploring Polonnaruwa
Stepping into the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, visitors are immediately transported back in time. The majestic ruins, intricate temples, and royal palaces captivate the senses.
Guided tours take explorers through the Royal Palace complex, revealing the grandeur of a bygone era. The sacred Quadrangle, with its beautifully carved stone structures, offers a glimpse into the city’s rich spiritual heritage.
At the serene Gal Vihara, visitors are awestruck by the colossal Buddha statues carved directly into the rock.
Wandering through the Parakrama Samudra reservoir and the Polonnaruwa Museum, travelers uncover insights into the city’s cultural legacy and archaeological discoveries.
Gal Vihara Experience
Towering rock formations set the stage for the awe-inspiring Gal Vihara, a sacred site within the Polonnaruwa ancient city.
Carved directly into the massive granite outcrop, the Gal Vihara features a series of colossal Buddha statues in various poses, including a reclining Buddha spanning over 46 feet.
Visitors can marvel at the intricate details and serene expressions of these ancient masterpieces, which date back to the 12th century CE.
The guided tour offers insights into the historical and spiritual significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the advanced sculpting techniques employed by the Polonnaruwan artists.
Exploring the Gal Vihara is a profound and humbling experience, immersing visitors in the rich legacy of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage.
Cultural Insights
Immersing oneself in the cultural insights of Polonnaruwa, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka, is akin to stepping into a living museum frozen in time.
The Polonnaruwa Museum offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s glorious past, showcasing an impressive collection of archaeological artifacts and historical relics.
Visitors can explore the intricate symbolism and architectural marvels of the sacred Quadrangle, a testament to the region’s rich spiritual heritage.
From the majestic Royal Palace complex to the serene Gal Vihara and its colossal Buddha statues, every corner of Polonnaruwa beckons travelers to unravel the complex tapestry of its cultural legacy.
Included Amenities
This all-inclusive tour offers a comprehensive package that ensures a seamless and enriching experience.
Travelers will enjoy bottled water, an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi, and private transportation throughout the day. A delicious lunch is provided, allowing visitors to savor local delicacies amidst the ancient ruins.
The tour also includes entrance tickets to all the major sites, such as the Polonnaruwa Ancient City, Gal Vihara, and the Polonnaruwa Museum. This ensures that guests can fully enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the region without any additional costs or hassles.
The tour’s inclusions cater to the needs of both modern-day explorers and history enthusiasts, making it a well-rounded and value-packed experience.
Booking Details
Although the tour has a fixed price, travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, offering greater flexibility. The booking process is straightforward, with a flexible cancellation policy. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, ensuring peace of mind.
| Tour Details | |
|---|---|
| Tour Name | Polonnaruwa: All-Inclusive Day Tour From Kandy |
| Price | From $141.14 per person |
| Booking | Reserve now & pay later; flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund |
| Validity | 1-day tour with check availability for starting times |
This tour provides an immersive experience in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, allowing visitors to explore the majestic ruins, intricate temples, and royal palaces at their own pace.
Important Considerations
Wheelchair-bound travelers can readily join the tour, as it’s designed to be fully accessible.
The tour’s guidelines strictly prohibit alcohol, drugs, and touching any exhibits to preserve the historic sites.
Multilingual tour guides fluent in English, French, German, and Spanish ensure all guests can fully enjoy the experience.
With a flexible 24-hour cancellation policy, travelers can book with peace of mind, receiving a full refund if plans change.
Whether exploring the majestic ruins of Polonnaruwa or marveling at the colossal Buddha statues of Gal Vihara, this all-inclusive day tour from Kandy offers an unforgettable glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Photography Permits Required at the Archaeological Sites?
Photography is generally permitted at the archaeological sites, but visitors should check with site staff for any restrictions. Some locations may require a photography permit, which can typically be purchased on-site.
Can We Stop for Additional Sightseeing on the Way to Polonnaruwa?
The tour allows stops for additional sightseeing on the way to Polonnaruwa, as the itinerary is flexible. Travelers can discuss their interests with the tour guide and customize the day’s activities to fit their preferences.
What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Ancient Sites?
There’s no strict dress code, but visitors should dress modestly to respect the sacred sites. Light, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as guests will be exploring ancient ruins and temples on foot.
Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary to Our Preferences?
Yes, clients can typically customize the tour itinerary to their preferences. Tour operators often offer flexibility to adjust the duration, activities, and sites visited based on the group’s interests and needs.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration in Polonnaruwa?
Yes, the tour itinerary can typically be extended to allow more time in Polonnaruwa. Travelers can request additional hours to explore the ancient city’s ruins, temples, and museums at their own pace for a personalized experience.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Polonnaruwa: Explore by Tuk-Tuk Tour
- Polonnaruwa Ancient City Guided Tour From Kaluthara
- Polannaruwa Ancient City Guided Tour From Kandy
- Polonnaruwa: Ancient City Exploration by Tuk-Tuk!
- Private Polonnaruwa Ancient City Guided Tour From Colombo
- Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour With Minneriya Elephant Safari
The Sum Up
The Polonnaruwa: All-Inclusive Day Tour From Kandy offers an immersive journey into Sri Lanka’s rich history and architectural marvels. Travelers can explore the ancient city, marvel at the colossal Buddha statues, and savor local delicacies amidst stunning ruins. With wheelchair-friendly transportation, multilingual guides, and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour provides a seamless and memorable cultural experience.