Sri Lanka · UNESCO Heritage Sites

Polonnaruwa Ancient City All Inclusive Day Tour From Colombo

11 Hours Round trip from Pickup service provided in Wattala. Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Polonnaruwa
  • 02 See the iconic rock-cut Buddha statues at Gal Vihara
  • 03 Explore historic monuments including Vatadage, Rankoth Vehera, Lotus Pond, and Thivanka Image House
  • 04 View the vast Parakrama Samudraya reservoir
  • 05 Discover traditional Sri Lankan wood carving craftsmanship
  • 06 Learn about local gemstones and jewellery in Kandy
  • 07 Experience Ayurvedic herbs and spices at a herbal garden
  • 08 Travel with private transportation and included entry tickets

Step back into Sri Lanka’s royal past on this full-day journey from Colombo to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its remarkably preserved monuments, sacred spaces, and impressive engineering. Explore a collection of historic landmarks including the Polonnaruwa Vatadage, Gal Vihara, Rankoth Vehera, Lotus Pond, Thivanka Image House, and the vast Parakrama Samudraya.

Along the way, discover layers of Sri Lankan culture through traditional wood carving, gemstones and jewellery, and Ayurvedic herbs and spices. With private transportation, entry tickets, and hotel pickup included, this experience offers a convenient and enriching way to explore one of the island’s most important heritage destinations.

Step back into Sri Lanka’s royal past on this full-day journey from Colombo to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its remarkably preserved monuments, sacred spaces, and impressive engineering.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 11 Hours
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Not included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Yes
Cities Kandy, Polonnaruwa
Languages English, French, German, Italian, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Polonnaruwa Vatadage

The Polonnaruwa Vatadage is an ancient structure dating back to the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa of Sri Lanka. It is believed to have been built during the reign of Parakramabahu I to hold the Relic of the tooth of the Buddha or during the reign of Nissanka Malla of Polonnaruwa to hold the alms bowl used by the Buddha.

Gal Vihara

The Gal Viharaya (Rock Temple) in Polonnaruwa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its colossal rock-cut Buddha statues. Carved from a single granite rock during the reign of King Parakramabahu I, the seated, standing, and reclining Buddha figures showcase exquisite craftsmanship and spiritual serenity2.

Rankoth Vehera

Rankoth Vehera is the largest stupa in Polonnaruwa, built by King Nissanka Malla. Its massive brick structure, inspired by Anuradhapura’s architectural style, stands as a symbol of Buddhist devotion and ancient engineering excellence.

Lotus Pond

The Nelum Pokuna or Lotus Pond is a beautifully designed stone pond shaped like a blooming lotus flower. This unique structure reflects the artistic ingenuity of ancient Sri Lankan hydraulic engineering and is a tranquil spot within the ancient city

Thivanka Image House

Thiwanka Image House is famed for its unique curved walls and the towering Buddha statue within. The interior walls are adorned with well-preserved frescoes depicting Jataka tales, making it a treasure trove of ancient Buddhist art.

Samudra Parakrama

Parakrama Samudraya is a vast man-made reservoir built by King Parakramabahu I. Spanning over 2,500 hectares, this engineering marvel was designed to “not let a single drop of rainwater flow into the sea,” showcasing ancient Sri Lanka’s advanced irrigation systems.

Oak Ray Woodcarving

Discover the artistry of traditional Sri Lankan wood carving at Oak Ray Wood Carving Center. Skilled artisans craft intricate statues, masks, furniture, and sculptures using teak, mahogany, and ebony, preserving centuries-old craftsmanship

Premadasas Gems & Jewellery - Kandy

Explore the dazzling world of Sri Lankan gemstones at Premadasa Gems & Jewellers. Renowned for its exquisite collection of sapphires, diamonds, and pearls, this gem house offers high-quality jewelry, a gemological museum, and insights into the mining process.

Rawana Spice & Herbal Garden

Discover Ayurvedic herbs and spices used in traditional healing and wellness

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Pickup service provided in Wattala. 2 cities · 11 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Bottled water
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • WiFi on board
  • Private transportation
  • Entry / Admission - Polonnaruwa Gal Viharaya & polonnaruwa Vatadage
  • Entry / Admission - Lankathilaka Image House & Lotus Pond
  • Entry / Admission -Rankoth Vehera & Thivanka Image House
  • Entry / Admission - Parakrama Samudraya
  • Entry / Admission - Oak Ray Woodcarving
  • Entry / Admission - Premadasas Gems and Jewellery
  • Entry / Admission - Rawana Spice & Herbal Garden

Know before you go

  • WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE
  • INFANT SEATS AVAILABLE
  • Not stroller accessible
  • Not suitable for pets
  • No public transportation nearby
  • Infants must not sit on laps
  • Wheelchair accessible

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Pickup service provided in Wattala.
Tour start
Pickup service provided in Wattala.
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 11 hours finish where they began, in Pickup service provided in Wattala..

Watch the tourHQ film Watch the film

Create your own adventure

Can't find the perfect tour? Tailor your dream trip.

  • Tell us your destination, dates and group size.
  • Our travel experts and local guides design a tailored itinerary, just for you.
  • Enjoy your trip with peace of mind, knowing everything is taken care of.
Plan my holiday

Say goodbye to travel stress.