Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Polonnaruwa Day Tour From Colombo

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1
  Sigiriya Museum

  This decent museum has a fine diorama of the site, providing an excellent overview and explaining Sigiriya's cultural importance beyond the obvious natural beauty. The theory that Sigiriya was a Buddhist monastery is given here, although the established position that it was a palace or fortress prevails. Trade routes are explained, showing Sigiriya's connections with the Gulf, China, India and the Roman Empire.

  1 hour • Admission ticket not included
• 2
  Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress

  Sigiriya or Sinhagiri is an ancient rock fortress located in the northern Matale District near the town of Dambulla in the Central Province, Sri Lanka. The name refers to a site of historical and archaeological significance that is dominated by a massive column of rock nearly 200 metres high.

  2 hours 30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
• 3
  Polonnaruwa

  Poḷonnaruwa is the main town of Polonnaruwa District in North Central Province, Sri Lanka. Kaduruwela area is the Polonnaruwa New Town and the other part of Polonnaruwa remains as the royal ancient city of the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa. The second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms, Polonnaruwa was first established by the Chola dynasty after their successful invasion of the country's then capital, Anuradhapura, in the 10th century. The Ancient City of Polonnaruwa has been declared a World Heritage Site.[1] Currently the new Polonnaruwa is undergoing a major development project known as the "Awakening of Polonnaruwa" under the concept of President Maithripala Sirisena. It envisions the development of all sectors in Polonnaruwa including roads, electricity, agriculture, education, health and environment will be developed comprehensively

  2 hours 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 4
  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

  1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
• 5
  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.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
• 6
  Lankathilaka Image House

  Lankathilaka Vihara is a majestic brick-built image house featuring a towering Buddha statue and intricate carvings. This 12th-century temple exemplifies Sinhalese architecture and is one of the most revered Buddhist shrines in Polonnaruwa.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
• 7
  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.

  15 minutes • Admission ticket not included
• 8
  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.

  15 minutes • Admission ticket not included
• 9
  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.

  15 minutes • Admission ticket not included
• 10
  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.

  15 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 11
  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

  30 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 12
  Premadasas Gems and Jewellery

  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

  30 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 13
  Rawana Spice & Herbal Garden

  Discover Ayurvedic herbs and spices used in traditional healing and wellness.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket included

Additional info

• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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