Sri Lanka is a land of rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Among its many treasures, Polonnaruwa stands as a testament to the island’s ancient glory, while its surrounding wilderness is home to some of the most spectacular wildlife in Asia. Combining both these experiences, the Polonnaruwa & Wildlife Safari offers travelers a full-day adventure that perfectly balances culture, history, and wildlife exploration.
Whether you are a family seeking an unforgettable outing, a solo traveler wanting to explore the island’s heritage, or a photography enthusiast in search of perfect shots, this safari promises a memorable journey through time and nature.
Discover Ancient Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was Sri Lanka’s second ancient capital after Anuradhapura. It flourished from the 11th to 13th centuries and is renowned for its well-preserved archaeological ruins, temples, and monuments. A Polonnaruwa safari starts with exploring these historical treasures, usually on a guided cycling tour, which provides an intimate, up-close view of the ancient city.
Key Monuments to Explore
1. Gal Vihara
Gal Vihara is a masterpiece of ancient Sinhalese rock carving. The site features four stunning Buddha statues carved out of solid granite, each portraying a different pose: seated, standing, and reclining. The serenity and craftsmanship make it a highlight of the Polonnaruwa city tour.
2. Royal Palace
The ruins of the Royal Palace give insight into the grandeur of ancient kings. Although only fragments remain, the palace layout, ponds, and foundations showcase sophisticated architecture and urban planning.
3. Vatadage
Vatadage, a circular relic house, is one of the most beautiful monuments in Polonnaruwa. The intricate stone carvings and concentric platforms are perfect for history enthusiasts and photographers.
4. Rankoth Vehera
Rankoth Vehera is one of the largest stupas in Polonnaruwa. Its impressive dome, combined with surrounding ruins, offers a majestic view of ancient Buddhist architecture.
5. Thuparama Image House
Thuparama is a sacred site containing a seated Buddha image. The structure represents classic Sinhalese architecture, and the preserved murals depict historical religious art.
Exploring Polonnaruwa on a bicycle allows you to move at your own pace, stop for photos, and enjoy a quiet, immersive experience. Knowledgeable guides provide fascinating stories about the kings, their governance, and the city’s evolution, turning your tour into both an educational and enjoyable adventure.
Transition from Culture to Wildlife
After exploring the ancient city, the tour seamlessly transitions into the wilderness surrounding Polonnaruwa. The combination of history and nature is what sets this safari apart from other tours in Sri Lanka.
Travel in a comfortable private vehicle from the archaeological site to nearby wildlife parks such as Minneriya, Kaudulla, or Hurulu Eco Park, where your jeep safari Polonnaruwa begins. The journey itself provides scenic views of rural Sri Lanka, dotted with paddy fields, small villages, and lush forests.
Evening Jeep Safari Polonnaruwa
The highlight of the day is the jeep safari. Traveling in a private jeep ensures a comfortable and safe experience while allowing you to explore the national park thoroughly. An expert driver-guide shares insights about the local flora and fauna, ensuring that every sighting is educational as well as thrilling.
Wildlife You Can Encounter
- Asian Elephants: Polonnaruwa is famous for the “Gathering” of elephants, particularly in Minneriya National Park. During the dry season, hundreds of elephants congregate around water sources, offering spectacular viewing opportunities.
- Deer: Spotted deer and sambar deer roam freely across the park.
- Monkeys: Watch for toque macaques and grey langurs in the trees.
- Water Buffalo: Often seen grazing near ponds or wetlands.
- Exotic Birds: Birdwatchers can spot kingfishers, eagles, and colorful jungle species.
Your guide will help you identify the species and share interesting facts about their habits and conservation. This jeep safari Polonnaruwa experience is ideal for photographers seeking close-up shots of wildlife in their natural habitat.
Why Choose Polonnaruwa & Wildlife Safari?
1. Perfect Blend of History and Nature
Most tours focus either on history or wildlife, but this safari combines both, offering a rich, diverse experience in one day.
2. Suitable for All Ages
The cycling tour is suitable for older children and adults, while the jeep safari can be enjoyed by travelers of all ages.
3. Professional Guides
Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience by providing insights into Sri Lanka’s history, wildlife behavior, and conservation efforts.
4. Convenient Travel
Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for locations such as Habarana, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, and nearby towns, making the tour hassle-free.
Practical Tips for Your Safari
To ensure you get the most out of your Polonnaruwa safari, here are some essential tips:
- Clothing: Wear light, breathable clothes suitable for cycling and jeep safaris. Long sleeves and pants are recommended to protect against sun and insects.
- Footwear: Sturdy shoes or sneakers are best for cycling and walking around ruins.
- Sun Protection: Sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen are essential.
- Insect Protection: Bring insect repellent to avoid bites during the safari.
- Camera Gear: A DSLR or good-quality smartphone camera is perfect for capturing wildlife and historical monuments. Binoculars enhance your wildlife viewing experience.
- Hydration: Bring water bottles to stay hydrated during cycling and safari activities.
When to Visit
The best time for a Polonnaruwa & Wildlife Safari is during the dry season (May to September). During this time, wildlife congregates around water sources, offering better chances of spotting elephants and other animals. Early morning and late afternoon tours provide ideal lighting for photography and cooler temperatures for cycling.
Pricing and Booking
Booking your safari is straightforward:
- Polonnaruwa City Tour: $30
- Cycling Tour Rental: $4 per bicycle
- National Park Ticket:
- Adult (12+ years): $49
- Child (6–12 years): $22
Inclusions:
- Private vehicle and professional safari driver for the day
- Entrance fees for archaeological sites and safari parks
- Bicycle rental for Polonnaruwa city tour
- Bottled water during tours
- All applicable government taxes
Exclusions:
- Personal expenses or additional drinks
- Tips for guides or drivers
- Pickups outside the Polonnaruwa area (extra charges apply)
Booking early ensures you secure your preferred date and pickup location.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What time does the Polonnaruwa & Safari tour start?
Most tours start in the morning around 8:00 AM, with hotel pickup included.
2. Which safari park will we visit?
You may visit Minneriya, Kaudulla, or Hurulu Eco Park, depending on wildlife availability and season.
3. Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, though the cycling portion is best suited for older children. The jeep safari is suitable for all ages.
4. What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, camera, and binoculars.
5. Are meals included?
Meals are not included, but you can bring snacks or enjoy local restaurants nearby.
6. How long is the cycling tour?
The guided cycling tour usually lasts 2–3 hours, depending on your pace and sightseeing stops.
7. Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from Habarana, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, and nearby towns.
8. How likely is it to see elephants during the safari?
During the dry season, sightings are highly likely, especially in Minneriya National Park.
Why Safari Booking Sri Lanka?
At Safari Booking Sri Lanka, we specialize in creating hand-picked experiences across the island. With professional guides, private vehicles, and carefully planned itineraries, we ensure your Polonnaruwa & Wildlife Safari is seamless, enjoyable, and unforgettable.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or nature photography, our safari tours are designed to deliver an immersive experience.
Additional Safari Options
For those who wish to extend their wildlife adventures, Sri Lanka offers other top safari destinations:
- Yala National Park: Famous for leopards, elephants, and a diverse range of wildlife.
- Udawalawe National Park: Known for large elephant herds and wetland birds.
- Minneriya National Park: Best for elephant gatherings during the dry season.
Combining these with your Polonnaruwa trip can create a multi-day wildlife and cultural itinerary.
Conclusion
The Polonnaruwa & Wildlife Safari is more than just a tour—it’s a journey through time and nature. From cycling past centuries-old ruins to witnessing elephants in their natural habitat, this adventure offers the best of Sri Lanka in a single day.
Whether you are a history buff, wildlife enthusiast, or photography lover, this tour guarantees memories that will last a lifetime. Book your Polonnaruwa safari today and experience the magic of Sri Lanka’s culture and wildlife in one extraordinary day.
Contact Us:
📞 +94777251991
📧 info@safaribookinglanka.com
Location: No. 178, Satutugama, Kotalawala Road, Hingurakgoda, Sri Lanka