Polonnaruwa - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Polonnaruwa

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Polonnaruwa, a pretty good destination in Sri Lanka (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Polonnaruwa and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Polonnaruwa, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Sri Lanka, here's everything to know about Polonnaruwa for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa is a historic city located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. It served as the capital of the country during the 11th and 12th centuries, and is known for its cultural and archaeological significance. The city is home to many ancient ruins and temples, including the famous Gal Vihara, which features four large Buddha statues carved out of granite. Polonnaruwa is also surrounded by natural beauty, including lush forests, lakes, and wildlife reserves, making it a popular destination for both history buffs and nature lovers.

What to visit in Polonnaruwa

Here are the top tourist attractions in Polonnaruwa and some information about each of them: 1. Ancient City of Polonnaruwa: Polonnaruwa was the medieval capital of Sri Lanka and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ancient city boasts stunning archaeological ruins such as palaces, temples, and stupas. The medieval city is an engineering marvel even by today's standards. The ancient city of Polonnaruwa dates back to the 10th century.
2. Parakrama Samudraya: Built by King Parakramabahu I in the 12th century, the Parakrama Samudraya is a man-made lake that is still in use today. It covers an area of 12,500 acres and is one of the largest reservoirs in Sri Lanka.
3. Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu: The Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Polonnaruwa. It was built in the 12th century and boasts intricate carvings and architectural details. The palace was one of the most impressive buildings in the ancient city.
4. Thuparama Dagoba: The Thuparama Dagoba is a stunning ancient stupa that was built in the 12th century. The stupa is one of the most well-preserved structures in Polonnaruwa and boasts exquisite carvings and intricate details. Visitors can climb up to the top of the stupa to enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
5. Gal Vihara: The Gal Vihara is a group of four large Buddha statues that were carved out of granite in the 12th century. The statues are considered some of the most impressive examples of ancient Sri Lankan art, and each one is unique in its pose and expression.
6. Lankathilaka Temple: The Lankathilaka Temple is an ancient ruin temple that dates back to the 14th century. The temple boasts stunning architectural features such as columns that are nearly 17 meters high. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and impressive architecture.
7. Nissanka Latha Mandapaya: The Nissanka Latha Mandapaya is an ancient structure that dates back to the 12th century. It was built by King Nissanka Malla and served as a platform for public meetings and ceremonies. The mandapaya is known for its intricate carvings and impressive architecture.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Polonnaruwa!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Sri Lanka, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Polonnaruwa.

When to go on holiday to Polonnaruwa

The best time to visit Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka is from January to March and from July to September when the weather is dry and sunny. The temperatures are a bit cooler during these months, making it more comfortable to explore the ancient ruins and temples in and around Polonnaruwa. The monsoon season from October to January can bring heavy rain and strong winds, which can make it difficult to get around. However, if you don't mind a bit of rain, visiting during the monsoon season can be a pleasant way to experience the lush greenery and waterfalls in the area.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Polonnaruwa

There are a few options to get to Polonnaruwa in Sri Lanka: 1. By bus: You can take a bus from Colombo, Anuradhapura or Kandy that takes around 5-6 hours to reach Polonnaruwa.
2. By train: You can take a train from Colombo to Polonnaruwa, but there are only a few trains per day. The journey takes around 6-7 hours.
3. By taxi: You can hire a taxi from Colombo, Anuradhapura or Kandy. It takes around 4-5 hours from Colombo to reach Polonnaruwa.
4. By private car: You can rent a car with a driver from Colombo, Anuradhapura or Kandy. This is the most comfortable and convenient option, and it takes around 4-5 hours to reach Polonnaruwa.
Regardless of the option you choose, please make sure to check the latest travel restrictions and requirements due to COVID-19 before your travel.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Polonnaruwa, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka is known for its delicious Sri Lankan cuisine. Some of the typical foods of Polonnaruwa include: 1. Kottu Roti - A popular street food made with shredded roti, vegetables, and sometimes meat or eggs, all chopped and mixed on a hot griddle with spices and sauce.
2. Hoppers - A crispy and bowl-shaped pancake made from rice flour and coconut milk, usually eaten for breakfast with coconut sambal or a curry.
3. Rice and Curry - A staple dish in Sri Lanka, featuring steamed rice with a variety of curries, including meat, fish or vegetarian options, served on the side.
4. String Hoppers - A delicacy made of steamed rice flour pressed into thin strings and formed into a circular disc, usually eaten as a breakfast dish with coconut sambal and gravy.
5. Pol Sambal - A spicy and tangy coconut-based sambal (condiment) made with grated coconut, red onions, chili, and lime juice. It is often served with rice and curry.
6. Wambatu Moju - A sweet and sour eggplant pickle made with spices, onion, and vinegar.
7. Fish Ambul Thiyal - A sour and spicy fish curry made with tamarind, chili, and fish chunks, cooked to perfection over time to create a thick and flavorful sauce.
8. Kiribath - A special dish often served at festivals or special occasions, made with creamy coconut milk and rice cooked together until firm and sliced into pieces.
Overall, the cuisine of Polonnaruwa offers a unique blend of spicy, tangy, and sweet flavors that are sure to please any food lover.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Polonnaruwa an expensive destination for tourists?

Polonnaruwa is relatively affordable compared to other popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka. Accommodation, food, and transport in the town are relatively cheap, and entrance to the Polonnaruwa Historic City is quite affordable for foreigners as well. However, prices can vary depending on the type of accommodation and transportation you choose, so it's always a good idea to do some research and compare prices before your trip. Additionally, high-end hotels and luxury tours can be quite expensive, so it's important to set a budget and plan accordingly.

Where to find accomodation in Polonnaruwa

There are several areas where you can find accommodation to visit Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. Some of the popular areas include Polonnaruwa Town, Kaduruwela, and New Town. These areas have a range of hotels, guesthouses, and homestays to suit different budgets and preferences. Additionally, staying near the Polonnaruwa Archaeological Site or near Parakrama Samudra Lake can provide convenient access to some of the main attractions in the area.
You can check hotel prices at Polonnaruwa here:
Booking.com

Is Polonnaruwa a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Polonnaruwa is generally a safe place for tourists to visit. The area is a popular tourist destination, and there are many security measures in place to ensure the safety of visitors. However, as with any travel destination, it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially if you are traveling alone. It is also recommended to follow the local laws and customs, and to take precautions to keep your belongings safe.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Sri Lanka here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Polonnaruwa.

What type of travelers will enjoy Polonnaruwa the most?

Polonnaruwa is a great place for history enthusiasts to explore the ancient ruins, temples, and palaces. It is a perfect place for families and couples who want to take a trip back in time and learn about the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. Young people looking for fun may not find many entertainment options in Polonnaruwa, but they can still enjoy sightseeing and exploring the ruins. In summary, Polonnaruwa is a destination for those who want to have a historical and cultural experience rather than a party or adventure trip.

How to get around Polonnaruwa

To move around Polonnaruwa, you can use tuk-tuks, bicycles or rented cars. Tuk-tuks are a popular and affordable option for short distances. Bicycles are also a common choice for visitors, as they offer a more immersive experience and the chance to explore the ruins at your own pace. However, if you plan to visit distant sites or go on a safari, renting a car with a driver could be the most convenient option.

What to see around Polonnaruwa

There are many interesting places to visit near Polonnaruwa Sri Lanka. Here are some suggestions for a day trip from Polonnaruwa: 1. Sigiriya Rock Fortress. A UNESCO World Heritage site that is only 45 minutes from Polonnaruwa.
2. Minneriya National Park. A wildlife sanctuary famous for its elephant gatherings that is only a 30-minute drive from Polonnaruwa.
3. Ritigala Forest Monastery. A forest monastery complex that is only an hour away from Polonnaruwa.
4. Dambulla Cave Temple. A UNESCO World Heritage site that is 1.5 hours from Polonnaruwa. 5. Anuradhapura. The ancient capital city of Sri Lanka, located an hour and a half from Polonnaruwa. 6. Kaudulla National Park. Another wildlife sanctuary that is home to elephants, deer, and other animals. It is located 1 hour from Polonnaruwa.
These are just a few suggestions, but there are many other places to visit within a day trip from Polonnaruwa.
For every travel information about Sri Lanka you can click here.

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