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Polonnaruwa, once the thriving capital of ancient Sri Lanka, is a city steeped in history, culture, and remarkable ruins. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a journey back in time, where grand palaces, intricate temples, and ancient relics reveal stories of a once-powerful kingdom. Surrounded by lush greenery and serene reservoirs, Polonnaruwa beautifully combines natural beauty with historical significance, making it an unmissable destination for those who want to explore Sri Lanka’s rich cultural legacy.
To legally drive a tuktuk in Sri Lanka, you’ll need a special recognition permit. You can get this with either your “International Driving Permit (IDP)” or your “Regular National Country Licence” with a B/C endorsement (representing car, depending on your country).
tuktukmania.com can help you get your recognition permit from the AAC (Automobile Association of Ceylon) with either of these documents. After booking, you’ll receive an email with a form to upload your licence. We’ll have your permit ready when you pick up your tuktuk in Negombo. Temporary TukTuk permit process explained in 18 different languages.
All our tuktuks come with full insurance that covers damage to your tuktuk, other vehicles, and personal injury for you, your passengers, and third parties. However, our insurance does not fly you back home. Check out more details about travel insurance coverage.
Before hitting the road, we’ll recommend you either watch our introductory video or join a virtual briefing session to go over the final details of your trip and answer any questions you may have. We’ll also assist with planning your itinerary. Once you arrive, you’ll receive personalised driving instructions to ensure you’re confident and ready to explore Sri Lanka from Polonnaruwa.
Renting a tuktuk is a fun, immersive way to explore Sri Lanka’s stunning scenery and vibrant culture, especially around Negombo. When choosing a rental company, consider important factors like customer reviews, proper business and SLTDA registration, insurance coverage, safety standards, transparent pricing, and customer support. tuktukmania.com ensures all of these are in place. Find out how to select the correct tuktuk rental provider.
We prioritise your safety with reliable insurance, regular vehicle checks, and a team of mechanics. In case of emergencies, roadside assistance is available. With no hidden fees, our pricing is clear and fair. We also strive to provide top-notch customer service, handling any issues quickly. Since 2024, we’ve been committed to sustainable tourism by offsetting all our carbon emissions, making Sri Lanka greener.
Choose tuktukmania.com and experience the thrill of exploring Sri Lanka on your own terms. Let your adventure start in Polonnaruwa!
The Royal Palace Complex
Explore the grandeur of King Parakramabahu’s 12th-century Royal Palace, a massive structure with towering walls and multiple chambers. The adjoining Audience Hall, adorned with intricate carvings, offers a glimpse into the architectural mastery of ancient Sri Lanka.
The Quadrangle (Dalada Maluwa)
This sacred area is a compact collection of Polonnaruwa’s finest ancient temples and monuments. Key highlights include the Vatadage, a circular relic house with stunning Buddha statues, and the Thuparama Gedige, one of the best-preserved buildings from the era.
Gal Vihara
Known for its colossal rock-cut Buddha statues, the Gal Vihara is a testament to Sri Lankan craftsmanship. These serene statues, carved into a single granite boulder, are masterpieces of Buddhist art and a deeply spiritual experience for visitors.
Parakrama Samudra (Sea of Parakrama)
This enormous artificial reservoir, built by King Parakramabahu, is a stunning example of ancient irrigation. Take a walk along its banks to enjoy a peaceful view and understand the advanced engineering of the Polonnaruwa kingdom.
Rankoth Vehera
Rankoth Vehera is the largest stupa in Polonnaruwa, built to resemble Anuradhapura’s famous stupas. This towering structure is an important Buddhist site where pilgrims pay their respects, surrounded by a tranquil setting.
Lankatilaka Image House
This impressive, towering brick shrine houses a colossal standing Buddha statue. The open-roofed design and sheer scale make it one of Polonnaruwa’s most unique and awe-inspiring sights.
Pothgul Vihara
Located south of the city, this meditation library houses remnants of ancient monastic life. The statue of King Parakramabahu (or possibly a sage) nearby stands as a symbol of wisdom and scholarly pursuits of the time.
Nissanka Latha Mandapaya
This elegant pillared structure is believed to have been a space for chanting and prayers. Its lotus-shaped stone pillars showcase intricate artistry, and it’s a favorite for history buffs and photographers alike.
Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum
Before or after exploring the ruins, stop by the museum for a deeper understanding of Polonnaruwa’s history. Its exhibits offer context to the monuments you’ll see and insight into the daily life and grandeur of the ancient kingdom.
Priyamali Gedara
A popular spot for authentic Sri Lankan rice and curry, Priyamali Gedara is known for its cozy, home-style ambiance and buffet-style meals. The restaurant offers a variety of vegetable curries, fresh sambols, and flavorful meats cooked in local spices. With outdoor seating surrounded by greenery, it’s a great place to enjoy a hearty Sri Lankan meal.
Gami Gedara
Gami Gedara gives diners a taste of traditional village cooking. Known for its flavorful clay pot curries, this restaurant highlights fresh local ingredients and spices in a rustic setting. Guests can enjoy a simple, yet delicious range of dishes, from jackfruit curry to dhal and crispy papadam, giving a true taste of Sri Lankan home-cooked food.
New Araliya Sinhala Hotel & Restaurant
Famous among locals and budget travelers, New Araliya serves up authentic Sri Lankan food with an emphasis on rice and curry combos. They offer generous portions at affordable prices, and their banana leaf-wrapped lunch parcels are a hit for travelers looking for something quick yet filling.
Jaga Food
Jaga Food combines fresh ingredients with a unique, sustainable approach, growing many of their vegetables on-site. Their Sri Lankan rice and curry spreads are especially popular, with a delicious selection of curries. With a peaceful garden setting, it’s a hidden gem for an authentic dining experience.
Polonnaruwa Rest House
For a scenic meal overlooking the serene Parakrama Samudra reservoir, the Polonnaruwa Rest House is a wonderful option. This spot serves Sri Lankan favorites like curry rice and roti and offers a quiet, relaxing atmosphere with beautiful views—ideal after a long day exploring the ruins.
Devi Tourist Home Restaurant
Known for its budget-friendly meals and variety, Devi Tourist Home Restaurant serves local cuisine and some Western dishes. Their rice and curry dishes are freshly prepared, with options to suit various tastes. Locals love it for its relaxed vibe and hearty portions.
Seyara Holiday Resort
Seyara Holiday Resort offers comfortable, clean rooms with air conditioning, set within a tranquil garden. Known for its friendly hospitality, it provides a budget-friendly option near the ancient ruins, with bicycle rentals available for those who want to explore Polonnaruwa at their own pace.
Thidas Arana Lake Hotel
Located near the Parakrama Samudra reservoir, Thidas Arana Lake Hotel offers basic but cozy rooms with lake views. With a peaceful atmosphere, this spot is ideal for travelers looking for scenic surroundings without luxury prices. The in-house restaurant serves traditional Sri Lankan food, making it a convenient base.
Leesha Tourist Home
Popular among backpackers, Leesha Tourist Home provides clean rooms, some with private balconies, at budget-friendly rates. The guesthouse has a simple and welcoming atmosphere, and the hosts are happy to help with travel tips and recommendations around Polonnaruwa.
Tishan Holiday Resort
Tishan Holiday Resort is known for its relaxed ambiance and friendly staff. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the resort features an outdoor pool—perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring. Tishan’s home-cooked meals are a favorite among guests, adding to its homey appeal.
Ruins View Holiday Resort
True to its name, this guesthouse offers views of Polonnaruwa’s historic sites. The affordable rooms are clean and basic, and the location is ideal for those wanting to be close to the ruins. Guests appreciate the peaceful environment and the helpful staff, who can arrange tours and provide local tips.
Man Guest House
A budget-friendly choice that focuses on simplicity and comfort, Man Guest House offers clean rooms with air conditioning and Wi-Fi. The guesthouse has a communal dining area, and the hosts are known for their warm hospitality, making guests feel like family.
A Train Ride to Polonnaruwa.
Catch a train from Colombo Fort to Batticaloa and disembark at Polonnaruwa. This scenic journey takes approximately 5-6 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the countryside views along the way. For train schedules, visit the government’s official railway website.
A Bus Ride to Polonnaruwa
Travelling from Colombo to Polonnaruwa by bus is straightforward; simply board a direct bus at the Colombo Central Bus Stand. The journey typically takes about 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. This direct route offers a convenient way to reach Polonnaruwa’s historic sites from Colombo.
For route planning and to check bus schedules, visit the official website of Sri Lanka’s National Transport Commission (NTC).
By Taxi to Polonnaruwa
You can also hire a private vehicle with a driver for your journey. This option is the quickest, though it tends to be the most costly. The trip from Colombo will take around 4-5 hours.
Rent a Tuktuk and drive to the city!
Experience the thrill of driving your own tuktuk from Colombo to Polonnaruwa! This exciting option allows you to explore at your own pace, uncovering hidden gems and stopping wherever you like along the way.
Ready to begin your adventure? Head over to our online reservation system.
Choose your booking dates, select any extras, and enter your details. Complete your payment and get ready for an unforgettable ride through Sri Lanka!
Renting a tuktuk in Polonnaruwa offers you the freedom to explore the city at your own pace. To drive, you’ll need a local temporary driving license, and we’re here to help you obtain one!
Absolutely! Driving a tuktuk in Polonnaruwa is safe, and we provide a driving lesson to ensure you feel comfortable handling the vehicle.
Don’t worry! We offer dedicated customer support throughout your rental period to assist you with any issues that may arise.
On your pickup day, one of our experienced driving instructors will bring the tuktuk along with your locally approved permit and necessary documentation to your hotel in Polonnaruwa. After a comprehensive driving lesson, you’ll be ready to explore paradise!
Yes, you can conveniently drop off the tuktuk in Polonnaruwa. Check out price for Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations all around the Island.