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

Half-Day Minneriya Elephant Safari & Private Transfer to Kandy

Minneriya Elephant Safari and Private Transfer to Kandy

€22
per adult
Minneriya Elephant Safari and Private Transfer to Kandy
It's possible to rent cycles at the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Will be a nice experience if you are somebody who love cycling.

Polonnaruwa Day Tour with Lunch by Mahaweli

€41
per adult
Polonnaruwa Day Tour with Lunch by Mahaweli
Polonnaruwa Ancient City and Minneriya Elephant Safari

Polonnaruwa Ancient City & Minneriya Safari Full-Day Tour

€107
per adult
Polonnaruwa Ancient City & Minneriya Safari Full-Day Tour
Polonnaruwa Ancient City Private Day Tour

Polonnaruwa Ancient City Private Day Tour (Hidden Gems)

€27
per adult
Polonnaruwa Ancient City Private Day Tour (Hidden Gems)
Polonnaruwa Ancient City Private Day Tour from Sigiriya

Polonnaruwa Ancient City Private Day Tour from Sigiriya

€41
per traveller
Polonnaruwa Ancient City Private Day Tour from Sigiriya
Private Polonnaruwa Ruins & Minneriya Safari Tour from Sigiriya

Private Polonnaruwa Ruins & Minneriya Safari Tour from Sigiriya

€53
per traveller
Private Polonnaruwa Ruins & Minneriya Safari Tour from Sigiriya
Private Jeep Safari at Minneriya National Park to See Wildlife

Private Jeep Safari at Minneriya National Park to See Wildlife

€52
per adult
Private Jeep Safari at Minneriya National Park to See Wildlife
Picture 3 for Activity Polonnaruwa: Private Guided Cycling Tour with Hotel Pickup

Polonnaruwa: Private Guided Cycling Tour with Hotel Pickup

€62
per adult
Polonnaruwa: Private Guided Cycling Tour with Hotel Pickup
Minneriya: Wildlife Safari & The Elephant Gathering

Minneriya: Wildlife Safari & The Elephant Gathering

€19
per adult
Minneriya: Wildlife Safari & The Elephant Gathering
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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.