Private Polonnaruwa Ruins and Safari Tour from Sigiriya
About
Get ready for an unforgettable journey back to Sri Lanka’s ancient kingdom on this full-day private tour. Discover the UNESCO-listed ruins of Polonnaruwa, then catch sight of wild elephants at Minneriya National Park—famous for hosting the largest elephant gathering in the country. We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Sigiriya or Habarana and head straight to the ancient city. Don’t forget your camera—every corner is a perfect photo opportunity!
We’ve introduced two exciting packages: the Polonnaruwa City Explore package and the Polonnaruwa City with Minneriya Safari package. The Polonnaruwa City Explore package includes a driver and vehicle. The Polonnaruwa City with Minneriya Safari package offers the same vehicle options with an expert driver, plus a 4x4 safari jeep.
- Private experience
What to expect
- 1Ancient Technology Museum - PolonnaruwaStep into the Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum, a captivating gateway to Sri Lanka’s golden age! Nestled near the entrance of the UNESCO-listed Polonnaruwa Heritage Site, this museum is a must-visit for history lovers, showcasing an extraordinary collection of ancient statues, intricate stone carvings, and excavated pottery that bring the past to life. 30 min Admission not included
- 2Statue of Parakramabahu IRelive the Glory of Sri Lanka’s Golden Age Stand in awe before the Palace of King Parakramabahu, a breathtaking relic of 12th-century Sri Lankan royalty. Once a seven-story architectural masterpiece, this UNESCO-listed ruin still echoes the grandeur of Polonnaruwa’s medieval capital 15 min
- 3Ancient City of PolonnaruwaStart your Polonnaruwa ancient city tour after getting the entrance ticket. Sri Lanka’s second ancient capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers travelers a glimpse into the island’s medieval glory. Dating back to the 11th–13th centuries, this historic city is renowned for its impressive ruins, advanced irrigation systems, and serene Buddhist monuments. Visitors can wander through the Sacred Quadrangle, marvel at the colossal rock-cut Buddhas of Gal Vihara, and explore the remains of the Royal Palace. The vast Parakrama Samudra reservoir, built by King Parakramabahu I, still symbolizes the city’s ingenuity in water management. Today, Polonnaruwa is a peaceful, open-air museum where ancient architecture blends with lush greenery. Whether cycling through the ruins or pausing at intricately carved temples, travelers are immersed in a timeless atmosphere that makes Polonnaruwa one of Sri Lanka’s most captivating heritage destinations. 3 hrs Admission not included
- 4Minneriya National ParkA half-day jeep safari will be carried out to witness the rich wildlife in Minneriya, Kaudulla or Hurulu Eco. Stunning landscapes and lakes. All three parks are renowned for their large elephant populations and are famous for the Elephants Gathering. Depending on the seasonal wildlife movement, you can choose one of these 3 parks for an unforgettable wildlife experience 2 hrs Admission not included
Photos
Reviews
25 on Tripadvisor
What’s included
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- Hotel Pickup and drop-off from Sigiriya or Habarana
- Safari Jeep with Driver (We offer this Polonnaruwa and wild Safari Package Only)
Not included
- Entry/Admission- Polonnaruwa Site
- National Park Entrance
- Polonnaruwa site guide
Before you go
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Meeting & pickup
pickup from Dambulla pickup from Habarana Pickup from Sigiriya
Starts from
- Private Polonnaruwa Tour onlyPickup included
- Polonnaruwa with wildlifeNational Park Safari Tour 4x4 jeep Pickup included