Complete Polonnaruwa Travel Guide 2024

Complete Polonnaruwa Travel Guide 2024

Planning a trip to Polonnaruwa? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know for an unforgettable experience in Sri Lanka's ancient capital.

Getting to Polonnaruwa

By Train
The scenic train journey from Colombo takes approximately 5-6 hours. The route passes through lush countryside and tea plantations, making it a memorable experience in itself.

By Bus
Public buses run regularly from Colombo (5-6 hours) and Kandy (3-4 hours). For comfort, opt for air-conditioned intercity buses.

By Private Vehicle
Hiring a car with driver is the most convenient option, allowing you to stop at attractions along the way.

Best Time to Visit

Peak Season (December - March)
- Dry weather, perfect for sightseeing
- Higher accommodation prices
- More tourists

Shoulder Season (April - May, September - November)
- Fewer crowds
- Occasional rain showers
- Better hotel deals

Off Season (June - August)
- Monsoon season
- Lowest prices
- Fewer tourists but possible heavy rain

Accommodation Options

Budget ($15-30/night)
- Guesthouses and hostels
- Basic amenities
- Great for backpackers

Mid-Range ($30-60/night)
**Dilshan Guest House** falls into this category, offering:
- Clean, comfortable rooms
- Modern amenities
- Excellent location near ancient city
- Authentic Sri Lankan hospitality

Luxury ($60+/night)
- Resort-style properties
- Premium amenities
- Swimming pools and spa services

Transportation Within Polonnaruwa

Bicycle
The most popular and eco-friendly way to explore the ancient city. Rental costs around LKR 300-500 per day.

Tuk-Tuk
Available for hire by the hour or full day. Negotiate prices beforehand.

Walking
Possible but challenging due to heat and distances between sites.

Local Food & Dining

Must-Try Dishes
- **Rice and Curry:** Traditional Sri Lankan meal with multiple curries
- **Kottu Roti:** Chopped roti stir-fried with vegetables and meat
- **Hoppers:** Bowl-shaped pancakes with egg or savory toppings
- **Fresh Tropical Fruits:** Mangoes, papaya, bananas

Where to Eat
- **Local restaurants** near the bus station for authentic meals
- **Hotel restaurants** for comfortable dining
- **Street food stalls** for budget-friendly snacks

Budget Planning

Daily Budget Estimates

**Budget Traveler:** $25-40/day
- Accommodation: $15-20
- Food: $5-10
- Transport: $3-5
- Entrance fees: $5-10

**Mid-Range Traveler:** $50-80/day
- Accommodation: $30-40
- Food: $10-20
- Transport: $5-10
- Entrance fees & extras: $10-15

**Luxury Traveler:** $100+/day
- Premium accommodation
- Fine dining
- Private transportation
- Guided tours

Entrance Fees

**Ancient City Complex:** $25 USD (includes all main sites)
- Valid for one day
- Children under 12 often get discounts
- Carry your ticket throughout the day

Essential Tips

What to Bring
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light, modest clothing
- Water bottle (refillable)
- Camera with extra batteries

Cultural Etiquette
- Remove shoes before entering sacred sites
- Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered)
- Don't point feet at Buddha statues
- Ask permission before photographing people

Safety
- Polonnaruwa is generally very safe
- Watch out for monkeys at archaeological sites
- Stay hydrated in the heat
- Keep valuables secure

Nearby Attractions

Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Just 70km away, this iconic UNESCO site makes an excellent day trip.

Minneriya National Park
Famous for elephant gathering from June to September.

Dambulla Cave Temple
Ancient cave temple complex with stunning murals and Buddha statues.

Shopping & Souvenirs

- Handcrafted wooden items
- Traditional masks
- Ceylon tea
- Spices
- Batik fabric
- Local artwork

Communication

- Most guesthouses and restaurants offer free WiFi
- Local SIM cards available (Dialog, Mobitel, Hutch)
- English is widely spoken in tourist areas

Health & Safety

- No special vaccinations required
- Tap water not recommended; stick to bottled water
- Carry basic medications and first aid
- Insect repellent for evenings

Making the Most of Your Visit

One-Day Itinerary
- **Morning:** Arrive early, rent bicycle, visit Gal Vihara and Royal Palace
- **Midday:** Break at Parakrama Samudra, lunch
- **Afternoon:** Vatadage, Rankot Vehera, and other sites
- **Evening:** Sunset at the lake, return bicycle

Two-Day Itinerary
- **Day 1:** Main archaeological sites
- **Day 2:** Museum, lesser-known ruins, and Parakrama Samudra activities

Three-Day Itinerary
- **Day 1-2:** Archaeological sites
- **Day 3:** Day trip to Minneriya or Sigiriya

Booking Your Stay

We recommend booking accommodation in advance, especially during peak season. Dilshan Guest House offers easy online booking and can help arrange tours and transportation.

Contact & Emergency Numbers

- Police: 119
- Ambulance: 110
- Tourist Police: +94 112 421 052

Enjoy your adventure in ancient Polonnaruwa!