Things to do in Polonnaruwa

Activities, attractions and tours

Ancient stone columns and intricate carvings in a historical site.
Ancient stone ruins with a seated Buddha statue, intricate carvings, and a circular stone platform.
Ancient stone columns and a Buddha statue in a historical site.
A conical structure atop a dome, with a clear blue sky in the background.
A detailed stone carving of a scene with figures and animals, likely part of an ancient structure or monument.

Things to do

Elephants in their natural behavior

Polonnaruwa Day Tour with Lunch by Mahaweli

RM188
per adult
Polonnaruwa Day Tour with Lunch by Mahaweli
Visiting the Historical Polonnaruwa Ruins and Minneriya Safari

Polonnaruwa Ancient City and Minneriya Elephant Safari

RM490
per adult
Polonnaruwa Ancient City and Minneriya Elephant Safari
Polonnaruwa Ancient City Private Day Tour from Sigiriya

Polonnaruwa Ancient City Private Day Tour from Sigiriya

RM193
per traveller
Polonnaruwa Ancient City Private Day Tour from Sigiriya
Half Day Minneriya National Park Safari from Dambulla

Half Day Minneriya National Park Safari from Dambulla

RM278
per adult
Half Day Minneriya National Park Safari from Dambulla
Elephants at Minneriya

All Inclusive Private Safari in Minneriya National Park

RM567
per adult
All Inclusive Private Safari in Minneriya National Park
Private Jeep Safari at Minneriya National Park to Visit Elephants

Private Jeep Safari at Minneriya National Park to Visit Elephants

RM285
per adult
Private Jeep Safari at Minneriya National Park to Visit Elephants
Half-Day Minneriya Elephant Safari & Private Transfer to Kandy

Minneriya Elephant Safari and Private Transfer to Kandy

RM102
per adult
Minneriya Elephant Safari and Private Transfer to Kandy
Minneriya National Park Private Elephant Wildlife Safari

Minneriya National Park Private Elephant Wildlife Safari

RM226
per adult
Minneriya National Park Private Elephant Wildlife Safari
Minneriya Luxury Safari Morning Birds or Afternoon Herds

Minneriya Luxury Safari Morning Birds or Afternoon Herds

RM245
per adult
Minneriya Luxury Safari Morning Birds or Afternoon Herds
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What to do in Polonnaruwa

Stay near popular Polonnaruwa attractions

A historical stone structure with a central seated figure, flanked by two large circular towers and intricate carvings.

Polonnaruwa Vatadage

9.0/10 (28 reviews)
After visiting Polonnaruwa Vatadage, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Polonnaruwa. Stroll along the lakeside or seek out the cycling trails.
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Where to stay in Polonnaruwa

Find the best Polonnaruwa areas for the activities you enjoy most.

Kaduruwela

Though Kaduruwela may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum and Gal Viharaya.

Frequently asked questions

Is Polonnaruwa worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Polonnaruwa is visit Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum. Check this leading sight off your list, then discover more of this area's walking trails and history.
How do I spend a day in Polonnaruwa?
After you've visited key attractions like Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum and Polonnaruwa Vatadage, spend the rest of your day enjoying Polonnaruwa's retail and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Polonnaruwa?
You can't leave without visiting Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum, rated the top tourist attraction in Polonnaruwa.
Is three days enough to stay in Polonnaruwa?
You can easily tick off top attractions like Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum, Polonnaruwa Vatadage and Gal Viharaya with a three-day stay in Polonnaruwa. On average, most travellers plan two days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so linger longer and head to Dambulla.
Is Polonnaruwa a walkable city?
With vibrant neighbourhoods and top attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Polonnaruwa is a great place to explore on foot. Have fun wandering between Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum and Polonnaruwa Vatadage. Then take a stroll around New Town, located 3 kilometres from downtown, and Kaduruwela, which is roughly 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Polonnaruwa with kids?
Deciding what to do in Polonnaruwa with kids has never been easier. Whether you're travelling with little ones or teenagers, there are lots of family-friendly sights and activities to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Polonnaruwa for adults?
Gal Pota and Nissanka Latha Mandapaya are just two of the things to do in Polonnaruwa. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Polonnaruwa?
In Polonnaruwa, Rankot Vihara is a popular spot for anyone wishing to enjoy the city without opening their wallet. Also, stroll around the parks and other neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's a simple way to find out about the best free things to do in Polonnaruwa.