Exploring the ancient city of Polonnaruwa from Sigiriya presents a captivating opportunity for travelers seeking a private and customizable cultural experience. This day tour offers a comprehensive look at Sri Lanka’s rich heritage, with highlights like the majestic Polonnaruwa Royal Palace and the breathtaking Gal Vihara Buddha statues. Priced at a reasonable rate for up to four people, the tour includes a private vehicle, bottled water, entrance fees, and a delectable lunch, ensuring a hassle-free day of discovery. Supported by a professional driver, guests can enjoy a leisurely pace and enjoy the extraordinary sights and stories that make this UNESCO World Heritage site a must-visit destination. The stage is set for an unforgettable adventure.
Key Points
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This private Polonnaruwa city tour from Sigiriya includes transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and the option to hire a site guide for an additional charge.
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The tour covers major historical sites like the Polonnaruwa Royal Palace, Gal Vihara, Lankathilaka Image House, and Kadurugoda Vihara, providing insights into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
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The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and the driver, Shahiru, is known for his professionalism, excellent communication skills, and flexibility in accommodating group needs.
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Travelers can customize the tour by adjusting the pace, itinerary, and mode of transportation (private vehicle or bicycles) according to their preferences.
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Advance confirmation of pickup details and preparation with comfortable clothing and essentials are recommended for an enjoyable and seamless touring experience.
Tour Overview and Details
The Polonnaruwa City Tour/Day Tour from Sigiriya – Private offers a comprehensive exploration of the historic city of Polonnaruwa.
The tour includes a private vehicle, bottled water, entrance fees, and lunch for a total price of SEK 789.14 per group (up to 4 people).
It has received positive reviews, boasting a 4.5/5 rating based on 17 reviews across Viator and Tripadvisor.
The tour is accessible for wheelchair users and stroller-friendly, providing the flexibility of either hiring bikes or using the private car for site visits.
While the tour is private, with only your group participating, an optional site guide is available for an additional charge of 5000 LKR.
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Meeting and Pickup Information
Pickup is available from selected areas, though an extra 3000 LKR charge applies for Dambulla and Kandalama locations.
Travelers meet at Sinhagiri Tours on Thalkotta Road in Sigiriya, Sri Lanka, and the tour ends back at the same meeting point.
The pickup and drop-off service ensures a seamless start and end to the day’s adventure.
Regardless of where you’re staying, the tour operator makes arrangements to conveniently collect you and bring you back to the starting point once the tour concludes.
This convenient service allows you to fully learn about exploring the ancient city of Polonnaruwa without the hassle of transportation.
Accessibility and Participation
This tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with infant seats available.
The transportation and surfaces throughout the tour are also wheelchair-friendly, allowing most travelers to participate comfortably.
Whether you’re exploring the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa or taking in the stunning scenery, the tour caters to visitors of all abilities.
The private nature of the experience ensures that your group can move at a pace that suits your needs, with the flexibility to customize the itinerary as required.
With these accessibility features, the Polonnaruwa City Tour provides an inclusive and enjoyable experience for a diverse range of travelers seeking to enjoy Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
Tour Experience and Driver Feedback
Travelers have consistently reported positive experiences with the tour driver Shahiru, who’s described as professional, flexible, and supportive throughout the journey.
Shahiru is known for his excellent communication and willingness to accommodate the needs of each group.
Participants have the option to hire bikes or use the car for site visits, allowing them to customize their exploration of Polonnaruwa.
The tour operator maintains clear communication with guests via WhatsApp, ensuring a seamless experience.
Customer Reviews and Recommendations
Generally, the Polonnaruwa City Tour has received positive reviews, with customers highlighting the tour’s comfort, flexibility, and friendly service.
However, some reviewers have expressed the perception that the tour was more of a simple pickup and drop-off experience rather than a comprehensive private tour, suggesting the need for clear communication regarding the services included.
Most travelers report having a pleasant experience, praising the professionalism and supportiveness of the driver.
While the option to hire bikes or use the car for site visits is appreciated, a few customers have recommended communicating their specific needs, such as the desire for a dedicated site guide, to the tour operator to avoid any misunderstandings.
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Highlights of the Polonnaruwa City Tour
The Polonnaruwa City Tour offers a captivating exploration of Sri Lanka’s ancient capital, showcasing a wealth of well-preserved archaeological sites and historical landmarks.
Highlights of the tour include:
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The grand Polonnaruwa Royal Palace, a sprawling complex that once housed the king’s residence, audience halls, and bathing pools.
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The Gal Vihara, a series of four impressive Buddha statues carved directly into granite rock.
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The Lankathilaka Image House, a magnificent brick structure renowned for its ornate architectural details and intricate frescoes.
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The Kadurugoda Vihara, an ancient Buddhist monastery featuring the impressive Potgul Vihara, a massive stone structure with striking carvings.
Exploring these remarkable sites provides a unique window into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and the grandeur of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom.
Preparing for the Private Tour
To make the most of the Polonnaruwa City Tour, it’s important to properly prepare for the private experience. Knowing what to expect and how to plan ahead can ensure a seamless and enjoyable excursion through this ancient Sri Lankan capital. Consider the following tips to get ready:
Preparation Steps | Description |
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Confirm Pickup Details | Arrange the pickup location and time with the tour operator in advance. |
Dress Appropriately | Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes suitable for the hot, tropical climate. |
Bring Essentials | Pack sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and any personal medications you may need. |
With these preparations in place, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing the rich history and cultural heritage of Polonnaruwa on a personalized private tour.
Customizing Your Touring Experience
Customizing one’s touring experience in Polonnaruwa allows travelers to tailor the itinerary and services to their specific interests and needs. The private nature of this tour provides an excellent opportunity to create a personalized experience.
Travelers can:
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Opt for a guided tour to dive deeper into the history and significance of the ancient city’s monuments and ruins.
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Explore the site at their own pace, utilizing bicycles or the private vehicle to cover more ground.
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Customize the duration and pacing of the tour to accommodate personal preferences and schedules.
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Request additional stops or activities, such as visiting a local village or handicraft market, to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Typical Duration of the Polonnaruwa City Tour?
The typical duration of a Polonnaruwa city tour is generally a full-day experience, allowing visitors to explore the ancient city’s extensive archaeological sites and ruins at a leisurely pace. Tour lengths can vary depending on individual pacing and interests.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs Beyond the Tour Price?
The tour price typically covers the private vehicle, bottled water, entrance fees, and lunch. However, there may be additional costs for optional services like a site guide (5000 LKR) or pickup locations outside the standard area (extra 3000 LKR).
Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Specific Sites or Activities?
Yes, the tour can typically be customized to include specific sites or activities. Customers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator and work together to tailor the itinerary to meet their needs and interests.
What Should I Bring or Wear for the Tour?
Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes, bring a hat, sunscreen, and water to stay hydrated. Bringing a camera is also recommended to capture the historical sights. Pack light, as the tour involves some walking between sites.
Are There Any Restrictions or Requirements for the Private Tour?
The tour has few restrictions. Travelers should wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes, as the tour involves walking on uneven surfaces. Bringing sun protection and staying hydrated is recommended. Accessibility options are available, including wheelchair and infant seating.
Recap
The Polonnaruwa City Tour from Sigiriya offers a private and customizable experience, allowing travelers to explore Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage at their own pace.
With a professional driver, entrance fees, and lunch included, the tour provides a hassle-free day of discovery, showcasing the city’s highlights like the Polonnaruwa Royal Palace and the stunning Gal Vihara Buddha statues.
This tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a memorable adventure in Sri Lanka.
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