Explore Polonnaruwa ruins

Visit a once flourishing empire, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka’s kingdoms and the capital of Sri Lanka from 1017 A.D. to 1235 A.D. Travel back in time to the Golden Age of Polonnaruwa under the reign of King Parakramabahu the Great (1153A.C-1186A.C).

See the remains of some of the greatest feats of the past; the gigantic Parakrama Samudra (The Sea of Parakrama) covering 2500 hectares of land, still provides water for irrigation to the surrounding areas and is believed to be one of the most greatest irrigation feats of the past.

Take time to see the remains of ancient stupas, shrines, palaces, buildings, monasteries, tanks and parks, each one narrating its own story of a glorious past.

Some of the ‘must see’ places include the Statue of king Parakramabahu I, the Potgul Vehera – a unique monastery, the Lotus Pond with its eight petal lotus shape built on four tiers, the Rankot Vihara – the 55m high stupa, the largest in Polonnaruwa, Galvehera – three large Buddha statues carved on the face of a rock and the Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu I.

Price Includes

Entrance fees and water is provided – there is a cool box in the vehicle and if you’re exploring the area by bike your biking guide will carry water.

Suitability for children

Kids may not follow the explanation, however there’s plenty of space to play. If you are doing the visit by bike – note kid’s bikes are not available.

Approximately Duration

Approx. 2 hours + the driving there and back or to your next activity.

Difficulty

Moderate. We rank it as Moderate not because of a climb as the surface is flat but because of the heat.

Starting Time:

9.00 AM to 12.00 AM, 10.00 AM to 1.00 PM, 2.00 PM to 5.00 PM

To wear and bring

Light clothing, sun cream, a hat. You might want to bring a change of shirt or t-shirt.

Important

You might like to see Anuradhapura by bike – a fun way of seeing town. The bike ride takes approximately 1 hour. The terrain is flat.

Private or Group

The visit is private, guided by your chauffeur guide, national guide or site guide. That said, there may be other people around at the site.