Explore the ancient wonders of Polonnaruwa on an immersive guided tour from Kandy. This 14-hour experience takes visitors through Sri Lanka’s captivating countryside before delving into the UNESCO-listed ruins. Expert guides uncover the region’s rich history, from the intricate rock-cut Buddha statues of Gal Vihara to the majestic royal palaces. With comfortable transportation, refreshments, and a small group setting, this tour offers an engaging and informative journey into Sri Lanka’s cultural past. But what secrets will be unearthed within these centuries-old ruins?
Key Points
- Guided tour of the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa Ancient City, with pickup from Kandy and a 3-hour exploration of the historical site.
- Highlights include the Gal Vihara, a set of rock-cut Buddha statues, and the majestic royal palaces showcasing ancient Sri Lankan architecture.
- Tour includes insights from expert guides, providing cultural and historical context to enhance the visitor experience.
- Amenities such as bottled water, seasonal fruits, and hotel pickup/drop-off are included in the tour price of £196.97 for up to 3 participants.
- Moderate walking is required, and dress code guidelines must be followed for temple visits as part of the tour.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This guided Polonnaruwa ancient city tour from Kandy is priced at £196.97 per group for up to 3 participants, with a duration of 14 hours.
The tour includes a pickup from Kandy and a guided exploration of the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa ancient city. Guests can look forward to sightseeing, self-guided exploration, and learning about the site’s rich heritage and architectural wonders from expert guides.
Plus, the tour provides bottled water, seasonal fruits, and hotel pickup and drop-off.
Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, as well as the reserve now and pay later option.
Want to dig deeper into Polonnaruwa? We've also reviewed these city tours
Itinerary and Highlights
The tour begins with a pickup from Kandy, where participants are transported to the main stop at the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa Ancient City.
During the 3-hour exploration, guests can expect a guided tour, sightseeing, and self-guided exploration of the site’s highlights. These include:
-
The impressive Gal Vihara, a series of colossal rock-cut Buddha statues.
-
The majestic royal palaces, showcasing the architectural prowess of the ancient kingdom.
-
The Parakrama Samudra, a grand reservoir built by King Parakramabahu the Great.
-
The intricate stupas, sculptures, and ancient avenues that transport visitors back in time.
Expert guides provide in-depth insights into Polonnaruwa’s rich heritage and architectural wonders, allowing participants to enjoy Sri Lanka’s historical tapestry.
Experience and Cultural Insights
Visitors can enjoy Sri Lanka’s historical tapestry as they explore the intricate statues, stupas, and ancient avenues of the Polonnaruwa Ancient City.
Expert guides provide invaluable insights into the site’s rich heritage and architectural wonders.
Travelers will marvel at the intricacy of the rock-cut Buddhas at Gal Vihara and the imposing royal palaces that once housed Sri Lanka’s ancient rulers.
The tour also offers the opportunity to discover the Parakrama Samudra reservoir, a testament to the engineering prowess of the Polonnaruwa kingdom.
Through this immersive experience, guests can gain a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka’s storied past and the enduring legacy of this UNESCO-listed archaeological wonder.
Inclusions and Transportation
The tour includes bottled water and seasonal fruits (subject to availability), along with hotel pickup and drop-off.
Travelers will be transported by an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a shared tour. Plus, a special guide accompanies visitors throughout the ancient city.
The inclusions for this tour are:
- Bottled water and seasonal fruits (subject to availability)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Air-conditioned vehicle (shared tour)
- Special guide at the ancient city
These amenities and transportation services ensure a comfortable and informative experience as visitors enjoy the rich history and architectural wonders of the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa Ancient City.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyHealth and Safety Considerations
Certain health and safety considerations apply to this tour, as it may not be suitable for some participants.
Pregnant women, people with heart problems, recent surgeries, or allergies (animal/insect) should avoid this tour.
Moderate walking is involved, so participants should be prepared.
The dress code for temple visits requires covering shoulders and knees, and removing footwear and hats.
The tour operator will reconfirm the pickup time, and additional charges may apply if the drop-off location differs from the pickup.
Participants should follow the guidance of the expert guides to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience exploring the UNESCO-listed ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa.
Loving the local insights? Here are more guided experiences we recommend in Polonnaruwa
Booking and Cancellation
One can reserve this guided tour of the Polonnaruwa Ancient City from Kandy at a price of £196.97 for up to 3 participants, with the option to cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
This tour also offers a ‘reserve now, pay later’ option, providing flexibility in booking. The tour duration is 14 hours, with pickup and drop-off included from Kandy.
Here are some key points about booking and cancellation:
-
Reservation can be made online or through the tour operator.
-
Full payment is due at the time of booking, unless the ‘reserve now, pay later’ option is selected.
-
Cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour are non-refundable.
-
Any changes to the drop-off location may incur additional charges.
Group Size and Availability
This Polonnaruwa ancient city tour accommodates groups of up to 3 participants. The tour operates on a shared basis, meaning participants may be joined by others during the excursion.
Tour availability depends on demand, so it’s best to book in advance to secure a spot. The maximum group size allows for a more intimate and personalized experience as you explore the UNESCO-listed ruins and architectural wonders of Polonnaruwa.
Your knowledgeable guide will ensure you make the most of your time at this historic site, providing insights and context to deepen your understanding of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
Regardless of group size, you’ll have ample opportunity for self-guided exploration and to soak in the majesty of this ancient city.
Getting to Polonnaruwa
The tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, and a scenic drive through the lush countryside to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, located approximately 134 kilometers (83 miles) away.
The journey takes around 3 hours, offering ample opportunity to admire the beautiful rural landscapes along the way. During the drive, your knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the history and significance of Polonnaruwa, building anticipation for the exploration ahead.
The route includes:
-
Passing through lush green paddy fields and tea plantations.
-
Crossing the Mahaweli River, the longest river in Sri Lanka.
-
Traversing rolling hills and picturesque villages.
-
Arriving at the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa Archaeological Reserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Typically, tour operators allow some flexibility to customize the itinerary to suit individual preferences. However, significant changes may incur additional costs or require advanced notice. It’s best to consult with the operator to understand the options available.
Yes, there is an option to hire a private guide instead of a shared tour. Customers can request this service and the tour operator will accommodate their preference, likely at an additional cost compared to the standard shared tour.
What Are the Best Times of Day to Visit Polonnaruwa?
The best times to visit Polonnaruwa are early morning or late afternoon. The cooler temperatures and fewer crowds allow visitors to explore the ancient ruins comfortably and capture stunning photos during the golden hour lighting.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs Not Mentioned in the Overview?
The tour overview indicates there are no additional fees or costs beyond the stated price of £196.97 per group. The operator confirms the included services and reconfirms the pickup time, with no mention of any extra charges.
Can I Combine This Tour With Other Activities in the Area?
Yes, you can typically combine this tour with other activities in the Polonnaruwa area, such as visiting nearby temples, wildlife reserves, or exploring the local culture and cuisine. However, check with the tour operator for specific combination options and pricing.
Recap
The guided Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour from Kandy offers an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
Discover the UNESCO-listed site‘s awe-inspiring rock-cut Buddha statues and majestic royal palaces, and gain insights from expert guides.
Whether you’re a history buff or seeking an enriching cultural experience, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through the region’s captivating past.
You can check if your dates are available here: