Destination

Polonnaruwa

The second oldest of Sri Lanka's ancient capitals, Polonnaruwa was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its well-preserved archaeological ruins, which include palaces, pools, temples, schools, courts and other 12th-century civic features. It can easily be combined with one of the excellent nearby national parks, such as Kaudulla or Minneriya.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

National Parks

Polonnaruwa is close to several of Sri Lanka's excellent national parks, including Minneriya and Kaudulla. They include populations of sambar deer, macaques, hornbills and much more. Their main attraction, though, is their elephant herds. During the dry season, roughly May to December in this area of the country, it is possible to see upwards of 150 elephants grazing and gathering around the central tanks, or reservoirs – a truly amazing sight.

Nishantha Traditional Woodcarving Factory

Visit the nearby Nishantha Traditional Woodcarving Factory for an interesting demonstration in traditional carving using indigenous Sri Lankan wood: ebony, royal ebony, rosewood, teak, mahogany, sandalwood, rainbow wood, and coconut timber.

Polonnaruwa Ruins

Explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s second capital and yet another of the country’s remarkable UNESCO sites. Have a privately guided tour of its well-preserved monumental ruins, which evoke the splendor of the 12th-century garden-city, and include the Royal Palace, various temples, and a series of colossal Buddha statues carved into the side of a granite cliff.

Sri Lanka Regions

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Central

Southern

Eastern

Trincomalee

Western

Polonnaruwa Itineraries

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Intrepid

Historic Sites and Stunning Hikes: Exploring the Cultural Gems of Sri Lanka

On this two-week tour of beautiful Sri Lanka, discover the country’s hidden treasures, from historic colonial towns to its lush jungles, rainforests and tea terraces. Savor the views and allow yourself to be enchanted by ancient culture.

Interests Heritage

Destinations Sri Lanka

Duration: 14 days / 13 nights

Price Per Person: From $14,000

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Historic Sri Lanka Odyssey

Step back in time without leaving any luxury behind on this 14-day journey through Sri Lanka’s most important heritage sites. Picnic atop an ancient rock fortress, take an exciting safari through Yala National Park and visit the revered UNESCO site, Anuradhapura. This adventure offers insight into ancient cultures.

Destinations Sri Lanka

Duration: 14 days / 13 nights

Price Per Person: From $13,100

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Cycle Sri Lanka: From Highlands to Coast

Explore Sri Lanka by bike on this exhilarating 13-day quest through its most picturesque, fascinating sites and cities. You’ll stop at ancient Buddhist temples, cycle past wild animals, take a safari ride through a national park, and make friends with tea workers, all while staying at the country’s most luxury hotels.

Interests Bicycling

Destinations Sri Lanka

Duration: 13 days / 12 nights

Price Per Person: From $10,800

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Deer Park Hotel

Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka

Deer Park Hotel is surrounded by ancient royal hunting forests on the banks of Giritale Reservoir. The resort’s private cottages are nestled in the tranquil forest, abundant with wild plants, flowers and water lily ponds. The hotel offers a pleasant outdoor pool, four dining options, a spa and a laundry and dry cleaning service. Guestrooms feature high-quality furnishings, a work desk, tea- and coffee-making facilities, a TV with satellite channels, a living area with a day bed and open air showers. Deer Park Hotel in Sri Lanka is your window to the fascinating past of Sri Lanka’s ancient civilizations and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Brace yourself for the legendary tales of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya and Kandy, as you travel some 2,500 years back in time and unravel the historical tapestry of the cultural triangle.

Multi-Country Specialists

Sri Lanka Goes Well With

India

Thailand

Maldives

Singapore

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With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

Travelogues

An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.

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