Overview
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka's second capital from the 11th-13th centuries, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within its 122 sq km ruins are well-preserved palaces, temples, Buddha statues, and a vast ancient reservoir; the four colossal granite Buddhas at Gal Vihara are widely regarded as the apex of Sri Lankan Buddhist sculpture. Renting a bicycle is the most enjoyable way to explore, and it works as a day trip from Sigiriya. Admission USD 25 (about LKR 7,500) for foreigners. About 1 hour by car from Sigiriya.
Opening Hours
Daily 07:00-18:00
Travel Tips
Bike rental about LKR 500/day. Beat the midday heat — visit before 8 am or after 4 pm.
Hotels near Polonnaruwa Ancient City
Hotels and guesthouses in Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa
Other attractions in Sigiriya
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
5th-century palace ruins atop a 200m rock - a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sigiriya Frescoes
Exquisite 1,500-year-old frescoes of celestial maidens painted on the rock face.
Pidurangala Rock
A nearby rocky peak offering the best head-on view of Sigiriya - a top sunrise spot.
Dambulla Cave Temple
A UNESCO World Heritage Site with 153 Buddha statues across five caves.
Minneriya National Park
Sri Lanka's top safari destination for spotting large herds of wild elephants.
Hiriwadunna Village Tour
Traditional Sri Lankan village tour with bullock-cart rides, dugout canoes, and a home-cooked lunch.
Ritigala Forest Hermitage
An ancient Buddhist monastic retreat with jungle ruins and a trekking trail.