Polonnaruwa Ancient City Guided Tour From Bentota

Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, the ancient city of Polonnaruwa beckons adventurous travelers with its captivating history and architectural wonders. Set out on a guided tour from the coastal haven of Bentota, where you’ll uncover the secrets of this UNESCO-listed site, from the iconic Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddhas to the majestic royal palaces that once housed the island’s powerful rulers. As you navigate through the historical ruins, your knowledgeable guide will unveil the fascinating stories that echo through the ages, transporting you back in time and leaving you eager to…

This experience made our list of the 8 Best City Tours In Polonnaruwa.

Contents hide

1 Good To Know

2 Tour Overview and Pricing

3 Itinerary Highlights

4 Inclusions and Transportation

5 Important Information and Requirements

6 Restrictions and Communication

7 Booking and Reservations

8 Cancellation and Refund Policy

9 Contact and Support

10 Frequently Asked Questions

11 The Sum Up

Good To Know

Guided exploration of the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa ruins, including the iconic Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddhas and royal palaces, from the starting point of Bentota.
15-hour excursion priced at K₨6,775 for groups up to 3 participants, with transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and a knowledgeable English-speaking guide.
Highlights include a peaceful visit to the Parakrama Samudra reservoir and a 3-hour guided walking tour to learn about the ancient city’s history.
Participants are advised to wear comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent, and cash for a seamless experience.
Easy online reservation with flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, and prompt assistance available via WhatsApp for a worry-free tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a guided exploration of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa from Bentota, priced at K₨6,775 for a group of up to 3 participants.

This 15-hour excursion allows visitors to discover the UNESCO-listed ruins, the iconic Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddhas, royal palaces, and the Parakrama Samudra reservoir.

The itinerary includes sightseeing, a 3-hour walking tour, and the services of a professional English-speaking driver. Bottled water and seasonal fruits are provided, while a special guide awaits at the ancient site.

Participants should come prepared with comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, and sun protection, as the tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Polonnaruwa.

Itinerary Highlights

Visitors embark on a captivating journey through Polonnaruwa’s ancient wonders, starting with a pickup from Bentota.

The tour’s highlights include a guided exploration of the UNESCO-listed ruins, where they’ll marvel at the Gal Vihara’s serene rock-cut Buddhas.

Strolling through the royal palaces, they’ll imagine the grandeur of past dynasties.

At the Parakrama Samudra reservoir, they’ll pause to soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Throughout the 3-hour walk, the knowledgeable guide provides insights, bringing the historical site to life.

Seasonal fruits, when available, offer a refreshing respite during the immersive experience.

Inclusions and Transportation

As part of the tour package, the operator includes bottled water, a professional English-speaking driver, and transportation by air-conditioned vehicle.

Travelers can expect a comfortable and informative journey, as the driver guides them through the winding roads to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.

Along the way, they may be treated to seasonal fruits, subject to availability, providing a refreshing respite from the warm Sri Lankan sun.

The operator has also arranged for a special guide to accompany the group within the UNESCO-listed ruins, ensuring a deeper understanding of the site’s rich history and cultural significance.

Important Information and Requirements

Participants should bring a valid passport, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, insect repellent, and cash to fully enjoy the Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour.

It’s important to keep in mind that the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with back or heart problems, or those with colds, as the 3-hour guided walk can be physically demanding.

Visitors to the temples must remove their footwear and cover their shoulders and knees to respect the sacred sites.

Despite these requirements, the tour promises a captivating exploration of the UNESCO-listed ruins, Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddhas, royal palaces, and Parakrama Samudra reservoir.

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Restrictions and Communication

Prohibited items on the Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour include pets, alcohol, glass objects, fireworks, explosives, and nudity.

Pickup and drop-off are limited to Kandy city, with additional charges applying for different locations.

Travelers are advised to contact the operator for the exact pickup time and to provide their WhatsApp details for quick communication.

This ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Polonnaruwa.

With clear guidelines and accessible support, travelers can navigate the tour with confidence, focusing on exploring the UNESCO-listed ruins and marveling at the breathtaking architecture of this ancient city.

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Booking and Reservations

Travelers can seamlessly reserve their spot on the captivating Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour from the comfort of their own devices.

With a few clicks, they’ll secure their place on this 15-hour excursion, which costs just K₨6,775 for groups of up to 3 participants.

What’s more, the tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring peace of mind.

Convenient reserve-now-pay-later options make booking a breeze.

Whether travelers are visiting from nearby Bentota or elsewhere, the reliable transportation and expert driver ensure a stress-free experience exploring the UNESCO-listed wonders of Polonnaruwa.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

The tour operator’s flexible cancellation policy provides travelers with the reassurance they need. Guests can cancel their Polonnaruwa Ancient City tour from Bentota up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund, no questions asked.

This allows them to book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed. Whether it’s due to a change in travel itinerary or unexpected circumstances, the operator’s liberal cancellation terms ensure visitors can recoup their investment without hassle.

This commitment to customer satisfaction is a testament to the operator’s dedication to delivering an exceptional touring experience from start to finish.

Contact and Support

For any inquiries or support, guests can readily contact the tour operator using the provided WhatsApp details. The operator offers prompt assistance to ensure a seamless experience. A dedicated team is available to address queries, provide updates, and offer guidance as needed.

Contact Mode	Details
WhatsApp	+94 000 000 000
Email	[email protected]
Phone	+94 000 000 000
Website	www.touroperator.com
Office Address	123 Main Street, Bentota, Sri Lanka

Guests are encouraged to reach out through their preferred method of communication, whether it’s a quick WhatsApp message or a phone call, to receive personalized attention and support throughout their Polonnaruwa adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour operator allows some customization, but the core itinerary focuses on the Polonnaruwa ancient site. Travelers can discuss modifications, such as adding stops or adjusting the duration, with the operator prior to booking to ensure a personalized experience.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour has a maximum group size of 3 participants. This small group size allows for a more personalized experience, with the guide able to provide attentive care and attention to each traveler’s needs throughout the day.

Are Audio Guides Available During the Tour?

Audio guides aren’t provided, but the tour includes a professional English-speaking guide who’ll bring the ancient city’s history to life through engaging narration. Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed ruins and rock-cut Buddhas at their own pace.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?

The tour operator doesn’t currently offer any special discounts or offers. However, they provide a flexible cancellation policy and the option to pay later, allowing travelers to book with confidence. The pricing is inclusive of various services, making it a value-packed experience.

What Are the Safety Precautions Taken During the Tour?

The tour prioritizes safety by requiring participants to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, cover up for temple visits, and avoid activities unsuitable for those with health conditions. Insect repellent and water are provided to ensure a comfortable, worry-free experience.

The Sum Up

Set out on a captivating journey through Polonnaruwa’s ancient wonders from Bentota. Uncover UNESCO-listed ruins, marvel at the iconic Gal Vihara Buddhas, and learn about the majestic royal palaces. With comfortable transportation, refreshments, and an expert guide, this 15-hour tour promises an unforgettable adventure amidst Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture.