Polonnaruwa Sight Seeing Tour and Minneriya Elephant Safari

Exploring the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa and witnessing the captivating ‘Gathering’ of wild Asian elephants in Minneriya National Park is a must-do experience for any traveler to Sri Lanka. This immersive tour combines the rich history and cultural heritage of the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa site with the incredible wildlife sighting opportunity in the heart of the island’s stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this comprehensive tour promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka’s remarkable treasures.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 8-hour tour exploring the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa Ancient City and the wildlife-rich Minneriya National Park, including a private jeep safari.
• Tour priced at $86.39 per person, with round-trip transportation, lunch, and all entrance fees included.
• Experience the ‘Gathering’ of wild Asian elephants in their natural habitat, led by an experienced park guide.
• Wheelchair-accessible options available, ensuring an inclusive and accessible experience for all travelers.
• Tour highly rated at 4.8/5 based on customer reviews, praised for its cultural exploration, scenic views, and wildlife encounters.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and an exciting wildlife safari in Minneriya National Park, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to enjoy Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.

Priced at $86.39 per person, the tour lasts for 8 hours and includes round-trip transportation, lunch, and all necessary entrance fees.

Travelers can freely cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

With a focus on accessibility, the tour also offers wheelchair-friendly options, ensuring a comfortable and inclusive experience for all.

Polonnaruwa Highlights

Exploring the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa Ancient City, visitors encounter the iconic Gal Vihara, a breathtaking ensemble of four colossal rock-cut Buddha statues that showcase the exceptional artistry of Sri Lanka’s medieval period.

The site’s centerpiece is the imposing Royal Palace complex, where visitors can wander through the remains of once-grand structures.

Another highlight is the Parakrama Samudra, a man-made reservoir that stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of the Polonnaruwa kingdom.

Throughout the ancient city, travelers are treated to a wealth of well-preserved monuments, temples, and archaeological wonders that provide a captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Minneriya Elephant Safari

After exploring the captivating Polonnaruwa Ancient City, visitors can look forward to the highlight of their tour – the Minneriya Elephant Safari.

Situated within the Minneriya National Park, this wildlife experience provides a unique opportunity to witness the remarkable ‘Gathering’ phenomenon, where hundreds of wild Asian elephants congregate during the dry season.

Guests will embark on a thrilling safari adventure aboard a private jeep, led by an experienced park guide.

Along the way, they’ll have the chance to observe the majestic elephants in their natural habitat, as well as other native wildlife.

This immersive safari promises unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity.

Pricing and Inclusions

The tour is priced from $86.39 per person and includes a range of services to ensure a comprehensive and convenient experience.

Travelers will enjoy comfortable air-conditioned transportation, a private jeep for the safari, and the services of a friendly English-speaking driver.

The package also includes a national park guide, entrance fees to Polonnaruwa and Minneriya National Park, and an authentic Sri Lankan lunch.

Customers can opt to hire an official guide for Polonnaruwa at an additional $18 fee.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a ‘reserve now, pay later’ option, providing flexibility and convenience for travelers.

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Transportation and Accessibility

For the journey, comfortable air-conditioned transportation is provided, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience. The tour also offers wheelchair accessible options, catering to the needs of all travelers.

The transportation experience is further enhanced by:

• A private jeep for the safari adventure, allowing for an immersive wildlife viewing experience.

• Pickup and drop-off services, ensuring a hassle-free start and end to the tour.

• An English-speaking driver who provides friendly and knowledgeable assistance throughout the day.

With these thoughtful transportation and accessibility considerations, the Polonnaruwa Sight Seeing Tour and Minneriya Elephant Safari caters to the diverse needs of its guests, creating a memorable and accessible experience.

Customer Experience

Travellers have given the Polonnaruwa Sight Seeing Tour and Minneriya Elephant Safari an overall rating of 4.8/5 based on 4 reviews, praising the guide’s friendliness and helpfulness. However, the tour may not be suitable for pregnant women. Ideal for various traveler types, this immersive experience offers scenic views, cultural exploration, and wildlife encounters.

Traveller Type	Rating
Couples	5/5
Groups	4.7/5
Solo Travellers	4.9/5
Families	4.6/5
Pregnant Women	N/A

The positive customer feedback highlights the tour’s ability to cater to diverse preferences, making it a popular choice for those seeking an unforgettable Sri Lankan adventure.

Ideal Traveler Types

According to the customer reviews, this Polonnaruwa Sight Seeing Tour and Minneriya Elephant Safari caters to a wide range of traveler types, from couples and groups to solo adventurers and families.

The tour’s versatility makes it an excellent choice for:

• Couples seeking a romantic and culturally immersive experience
• Groups of friends or families exploring Sri Lanka’s natural wonders
• Solo travelers looking to connect with nature and the local heritage

With its comfortable transportation, wheelchair-accessible options, and knowledgeable guides, this tour ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for all visitors, regardless of their travel preferences or group size.

Important Information

This tour offers various essential details that travelers should consider.

Pickup and drop-off services are included, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day’s activities.

Plus, the tour provides wheelchair-accessible options, catering to the needs of all participants.

Comfortable air-conditioned transportation and a private jeep for the safari further enhance the experience.

Travelers can expect an authentic Sri Lankan lunch, along with knowledgeable English-speaking drivers and national park guides.

While the tour is suitable for a range of travelers, it’s not recommended for pregnant women.

With an impressive 4.8/5 rating, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa and witness the captivating Minneriya elephant gathering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Children Participate in the Elephant Safari?

Yes, children can participate in the elephant safari. The tour is generally suitable for families with children, though pregnant women may not be able to join the safari activity.

Is the Tour Available on All Days of the Week?

The tour is available on most days of the week, though schedule may vary. It’s best to check with the tour operator for the specific availability on the desired date.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can reserve the tour now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Water and Snacks?

No, you don’t need to bring your own water and snacks. The tour includes lunch at a local restaurant, so there’s no need to pack extra food or drinks. The tour provider will take care of all your refreshment needs during the day.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour can generally be customized to suit individual preferences. Travelers can discuss any changes or additions to the itinerary with the tour provider, who’ll try to accommodate reasonable requests within the tour duration and logistics.

Recap

The Polonnaruwa Sight Seeing Tour and Minneriya Elephant Safari is a captivating experience that allows travelers to explore the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa Ancient City.

Along With the historical exploration, participants have the opportunity to witness the magnificent ‘Gathering’ of wild Asian elephants.

With comfortable transportation, delicious Sri Lankan cuisine, and knowledgeable guides, this tour offers an unforgettable adventure for those interested in history, wildlife, and Sri Lankan culture.

You can check if your dates are available here: