Excursion Ruins of polonnaruwa - unesco world heritage site tour at Trincomalee

Scenic Drive to Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, Guided Walking Tour

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately three-hour drive to Polonnaruwa. Upon arrival, a visit is made to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, one of eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites of culturally-rich Sri Lanka. The second capital city of Sri Lanka, Polonnaruwa was built during the 11th-century and 12th-century A.D., and is one of the best examples of ancient urban planning in the country. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour of Polonnaruwa.

Royal Palace & Chamber Ruins, Buddha Statues, Lotus Bath, Royal Citadel, Striking Irrigation Lake

Along the way, view the ruins of the Royal Palace and chambers, and Gal Viharaya, where a group of splendid statues of the Buddha in 'Upright', 'Sedentary' and 'Recumbent' postures are carved out of rock. In addition, visit the Lotus Bath, Royal Citadel and striking Parakrama Samudraya, an irrigation lake built by King Parakramabahu the Great.

Lord Shiva and Buddhist Temples, Stupa, Ekho Lake House, Lunch, Return Drive

Rounding out your visit is an opportunity to view the remains of some famous places of worship; a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, a Buddhist temple, a stupa and the former Temple of the Tooth Relic. Apart from its cultural heritage, discover a city rich in natural beauty, too. Leaving the Ruins of Polonnaruwa, re-board your coach and proceed for lunch at the Ekho Lake Hotel. After lunch, re-board your coach and commence the approximately three-hour drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Polonnaruwa, Guided Walking Tour, Royal Palace & Chamber Ruins, Buddha Statues, Lord Shiva and Buddhist Temples, Lotus Bath, Irrigation Lake, Lunch

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 875 yards (about 800 metres), at times over uneven, stone, sandy, and grassy surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, 15 steps at the Ruins of Polonnaruwa ruins and 5 steps at the EKHO Lake House Hotel. This tour is recommended for guests in good physical condition. This tour is not suitable  for guests with limited mobility and who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe and non-slip walking shoes, and bring sun protection from the ship. As a rule, proper attire is required to enter religious sites; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted, female guests must cover their shoulders, please bring a scarf from the ship. Shoes must be removed when entering religious sites; bring an extra pair of socks for comfort, as the pavement may be hot.

Infrastructure in Trincomalee is basic, and local conditions may be challenging: coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found on other excursions therefore, we urge flexibility and understanding as we visit unique and somewhat remote destinations. The cost of providing a tour programme in this area is proportionately more expensive than in neighbouring regions as vehicles and guides are brought in from Colombo. This may be reflected in the prices of the tours and we thank you for your understanding. Some sites may be crowded, and depending on traffic and parking conditions, it may be necessary to cross busy streets. The tour sequence may vary.