Day tour
Polonnaruwa Medieval Capital Day Tour
Polonnaruwa is compact enough to see properly in a day. Ruined palaces, a circular relic shrine and the carved Buddhas of Gal Vihara sit close together near a calm man-made lake.
We suggest an early start so you finish the open ruins before the sun is high. Your driver can take you between the groups of monuments, or you can hire bicycles at the entrance for a slower loop.
Highlights
- The carved Buddha figures of Gal Vihara
- The Royal Palace and Council Chamber ruins
- The circular Vatadage relic house
- Lakeside views from the old city bund
Best time to go
Feb to Sep
- January: outside the best season
- February: usually the best time
- March: usually the best time
- April: usually the best time
- May: usually the best time
- June: usually the best time
- July: usually the best time
- August: usually the best time
- September: usually the best time
- October: outside the best season
- November: outside the best season
- December: outside the best season
Dry, sunny months make the ruins easiest to explore; mid-afternoon heat is strong at any time of year.
Included
- Private vehicle with driver
- Fuel
Price on request
Private vehicle with driver. Pay in cash on the day. Expressway tolls and parking are not included unless your quote says otherwise. Tell us your date, group size and pick-up point.
Get a quote on WhatsAppQuestions about this trip
Is it better to walk, cycle or drive around the site?
Many visitors do a mix: drive between the main groups and walk around each one. Cycling is popular in cooler hours.
Can we stop at a national park on the same day?
It is possible to add an elephant safari at a nearby park in season. Ask us and we will check what fits your date.
How do I book it and what does it cost?
Message us on WhatsApp with your date, group size and pick-up point and we will send a quote. Entrance fees, boats and similar costs are paid separately unless your quote says otherwise.