Polonnaruwa Ancient City Exploration From Sigiriya/Dambulla

Exploring the ancient city of Polonnaruwa is a captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. Situated just a short distance from the renowned sites of Sigiriya and Dambulla, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers visitors a unique glimpse into the country’s impressive architectural and archaeological wonders. From the intricate stone carvings of the Polonnaruwa Vatadage to the awe-inspiring rock-carved Buddhas at Gal Vihara, the city’s well-preserved ruins and monuments provide a window into the grandeur of Sri Lanka’s past. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an enriching cultural experience, a visit to Polonnaruwa is sure to leave a lasting impression. But what secrets and stories lie hidden within these ancient walls?

Key Points

• The tour provides an opportunity to visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, located near Sigiriya and Dambulla, showcasing its impressive rock-carved Buddhas and historic architectural wonders.

• Highlights of the tour include the Royal Palace Complex, Parakrama Samudra reservoir, and the Polonnaruwa Vatadage, an octagonal 12th-century shrine with intricate stone carvings.

• The tour duration is 5 hours, with hotel pickup and an English-speaking driver, allowing visitors to explore the site at their own pace.

• Optional ruins guide services are available for an additional cost, providing deeper insights into the site’s history and cultural significance.

• The tour offers flexibility with booking options, including no upfront payment and full refunds for cancellations made 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

According to the information provided, the Polonnaruwa Ancient City tour offers an exploration of this historic site for a price starting from LKR 999 per person.

The tour features flexible booking options, allowing travelers to reserve their spot without upfront payment and benefit from a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

The duration of the tour is 5 hours, and travelers can choose to be picked up from their hotel, waiting in the lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

The tour package includes an English-speaking driver and a complimentary water bottle, while an optional ruins guide can be arranged for an additional LKR 320.

Experience Highlights

Visitors can discover ancient legends and historical sites throughout the Polonnaruwa Ancient City tour. The tour highlights some of the most remarkable attractions, including the Gal Vihara, which features impressive rock-carved Buddhas. The Royal Palace Complex offers a glimpse into the city’s former grandeur, while the Parakrama Samudra reservoir showcases the engineering prowess of the past. The Polonnaruwa Vatadage, with its intricate shrine carvings, and the serene Lotus Pond, are other must-see destinations. Throughout the journey, guests can enjoy opportunities for photography and wildlife observation, with chances to spot monkeys, birds, and other native species.

Attraction	Highlight
Gal Vihara	Rock-carved Buddhas
Royal Palace Complex	Ancient royal ruins
Parakrama Samudra	Historic reservoir
Polonnaruwa Vatadage	Intricate shrine carvings

Included Services

The Polonnaruwa Ancient City tour includes a range of services to enhance the visitor experience.

Hotel pickup and drop-off, along with an English-speaking driver, ensure a seamless start and end to the day’s exploration. Guests also receive a complimentary water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the journey.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, an optional ruins guide is available for an additional LKR 2,000.

While lunch and entrance fees aren’t included in the tour price, this flexibility allows travelers to customize their experience based on personal preferences and budgets.

These thoughtful inclusions make the Polonnaruwa Ancient City exploration a well-rounded and convenient experience for visitors.

Customer Feedback

Reviewers have provided a mixed response regarding the Polonnaruwa Ancient City tour, with an overall rating of 3.5 out of 5 based on 4 reviews. While some found the tour satisfactory, others noted issues with the pickup organization and concerns about the restaurant’s pricing compared to local standards.

The customer feedback highlights a few key points:

1. Pickup organization: Some reviewers mentioned problems with the pickup arrangements, which impacted the overall experience.

2. Restaurant pricing: Concerns were raised about the restaurant’s pricing not aligning with local standards, suggesting a potential mismatch between expectations and the actual costs.

3. Mixed experiences: The reviews indicate a range of experiences, from satisfactory to problematic, underscoring the need for the tour operator to address the identified areas for improvement.

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Booking and Availability

Interested travelers can check availability for specific dates and participant selection on the tour’s booking platform. Flexible booking options are available to accommodate various travel plans. With these options, visitors can prepare for a memorable journey through Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture at the Polonnaruwa Ancient City.

Availability	Flexibility	Experience
Check dates	Customize	Immerse
Group sizes	Reschedule	Discover
Last minute	Cancel	Explore
Peak season	Reserve	Appreciate
Off-season	Pay later	Cherish

Exploring Gal Vihara

Gal Vihara’s rock-carved Buddhas stand as a testament to the skilled artistry and spiritual devotion of Polonnaruwa’s ancient inhabitants. These colossal Buddha statues, hewn directly from the granite rock face, offer an awe-inspiring glimpse into the region’s Buddhist heritage.

Visitors can explore:

1. The Reclining Buddha, a massive 47-foot-long statue depicting the Buddha in a serene, contemplative pose.

2. The Standing Buddha, an impressive 23-foot-tall figure exuding a sense of grace and power.

3. The Seated Buddha, a remarkable 15-foot-high carving that showcases the Buddha’s meditative state.

Each of these masterpieces commands attention, inviting visitors to pause and reflect on the rich history and enduring spirituality of this ancient site.

Discovering Polonnaruwa Vatadage

After exploring the awe-inspiring Gal Vihara, visitors can turn their attention to the intricate Polonnaruwa Vatadage, a well-preserved shrine that showcases the region’s exceptional architectural and artistic prowess. This octagonal structure, dating back to the 12th century, features an array of intricately carved stone pillars, decorative panels, and a serene atmosphere. Visitors can marvel at the impressive stone carvings, which depict scenes from Buddhist and Hindu mythology, as well as the unique circular design that was a hallmark of the ancient Sinhalese architectural style. The Polonnaruwa Vatadage offers a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka’s past, inviting visitors to step back in time and enjoy the grandeur of this remarkable site.

Feature	Description
Design	Octagonal structure with circular design
Carvings	Intricate stone carvings depicting mythological scenes
Architecture	Exemplary of ancient Sinhalese architectural style
Historical Significance	Dates back to the 12th century, showcasing the region’s cultural heritage

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Polonnaruwa?

The best time to visit Polonnaruwa is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. The weather is generally drier and cooler, making it more comfortable for exploring the ancient ruins and outdoor sites.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the tour. It’s suitable for all ages, from children to seniors, as it involves walking around the ancient ruins at a leisurely pace. Families and groups of all sizes can participate.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Visitors are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm their policy and any restrictions on outside items. Enjoying a packed lunch can be a convenient and cost-effective option.

How Accessible Is the Site for People With Disabilities?

The site is moderately accessible for people with disabilities, though some areas may be challenging due to uneven terrain and steps. Wheelchair users may require assistance, and advance coordination with the tour provider is recommended to ensure a comfortable experience.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Ancient Sites?

The dress code for visiting ancient sites is typically modest and respectful. Visitors should wear loose, comfortable clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are recommended for the tropical climate. Visitors may also want to bring a light scarf or shawl.

Recap

Enjoy the captivating history of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Witness the grandeur of the Royal Palace Complex, the intricate stone carvings at the Polonnaruwa Vatadage, and the impressive rock-carved Buddhas at Gal Vihara.

This enriching journey promises a unique glimpse into Sri Lanka’s ancient civilization, blending cultural heritage and architectural brilliance.

You can check if your dates are available here: