Polonnaruwa Day Tour
Explore Sri Lankan history from centuries ago with a Polonnaruwa Day Tour.
Being the second-largest kingdom in Sri Lanka, the ancient city of Polonnaruwa has much in store for archaeologists, history lovers, and those who simply want to learn more about Sri Lanka. Today, the city is one of the best planned archaeological relic sites across the country, standing as evidence of the greatness and discipline of the first rulers of Polonnaruwa. UNESCO declared Polonnaruwa as a World Heritage site, thereby making it a popular tourist attraction in Sri Lanka.
When you visit Polonnaruwa, you will see why it is one of the most beautiful and green cities in the country. It is home to stunning ancient constructions hospitable people, the huge man-made lake from 1200 A.C. (Parakrama Samudraya), the stone colossal statue of Buddha and the Lankathilaka Temple.
Local expertise for authentic Sri Lankan experiences
Trusted, safe and reliable travel services
Comfortable transport with professional drivers
Eco-friendly and responsible tourism
24/7 customer support throughout your journey
Local expertise for authentic Sri Lankan experiences
Trusted, safe and reliable travel services
Comfortable transport with professional drivers
Eco-friendly and responsible tourism
24/7 customer support throughout your journey
Historical prominence of Anuradhapura
When the armies of the Tamil Cholas invaded and looted Anuradhapura in AD 993, Polonnaruwa became the country’s capital and remained so for 77 years. From its outlook, Polonnaruwa has a cosmopolitan mix of cultures – Indian Hindu and Sinhalese Buddhist.
In 1073, King Vijayabahu drove the Cholas away but kept Polonnaruwa as his capital city. For the next forty years, bloody civil war continued and King Vijayabahou dies in 1161. King Parakramabahu then captured Polonnaruwa, assuming he uithen controlled the entire island nation. He was known as the last great king of Sri Lanka as a result of the series of building works and expansion in Polonnaruwa. In 1293, Sri Lanka was taken over by the armed forces of South India, abandoning Polonnaruwa to the jungle.
Strategic importance
Known as a camp city, Polonaruwa was a safe hideout for armies, thereby giving it the name ‘Kandavuru Nuvara’. The city stretched for several kilometers along the east of the majestic reservoir – Parakrama Samudra, and was protected by 6kms of durable encircling walls.
Religious Significance of Polonnaruwa
- Groups of Buddhist pilgrims visit Polonnaruwa for its ruins, temples, stupas and Hindu Kovils.
- Rankot Vihara – largest stupa in the city at 180 ft high.
- Lankathilaka Gedige – built during Parakramabahu’s reign.
- Kiri Vihara – was surrounded by forests; rediscovered in the 19th century.
- Shiva Devale – Hindu Temple built in the 13th century.
Places You Will Visit
Not to miss in this tour
- Carved walls of the Quadrangle
- Recovered Chola bronzes at the Polonnaruwa museum
Things you will do
- Explore the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa (by foot or bicycle)
- Undertake religious blessings at the Ancient Gal Viharaya
- Enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan rice and curry meal at the famous Piyumali House
- Catamaran ride in Parakrama Samudra
FAQ
Q. Is this day tour for me?
Polonnaruwa is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Sri Lanka’s history and archaeology.As part of the Cultural Triangle, the ancient city is best explored by bicycle, making the journey both fun and immersive
Q. Can it be tailor-made?
Polonnaruwa lies in Sri Lanka’s dry zone and enjoys sunshine throughout the year.While temperatures ease slightly toward the end of the year, a Polonnaruwa Day Tour remains a must-do experience on any Sri Lanka holiday itinerary
Q. When to go?
As part of the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura is a tourist friendly destination at any time of the year.
Q. What will transfers cover?
Pickup from Hotel – Tour Attractions – Drop at your Hotel.
Mistiora Tours has been featured on
