Polonnaruwa
North Central · Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa is a Sri Lankan travel destination known for ancient city, heritage, lake.
ancient_city
Polonnaruwa
Quick facts
Ideal stay
1 to 3 nights
Stay length
1-4 nights (2 recommended)
Timezone
Asia/Colombo
Elevation
57 m
Tourism region
Cultural Triangle (Ancient Cities)
Budget level
Budget to midrange
Recommended pace
Relaxed
Popularity
6/10
Crowd level
Moderate
Difficulty
Easy
Coordinates
7.939536, 81.000339
Data status
Generated starter requires verification
Linked attractions
20
Connectivity
Internet quality
Good
Mobile coverage
Good
Airports
Nearest airport
Sigiriya Airport (GIU)
Distance from airport
~35 km
Recommended arrival airport
Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)
Recommended departure airport
Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)
History
Polonnaruwa succeeded Anuradhapura as the island's capital in the 11th century and flowered under Parakramabahu I, whose 'Sea of Parakrama' reservoir and monumental building programme defined its golden age. Its palace, circular vatadage, and the rock-cut Buddhas of Gal Vihara form a compact UNESCO World Heritage city.
Climate
dry zone
Best time to visit
Best months
Avoid
Good for
Interest scores
Culture
9/10
Photography
8/10
Relaxation
6/10
Nature
5/10
Food
5/10
Hidden gem
5/10
Adventure
4/10
Wildlife
3/10
Shopping
3/10
Nightlife
2/10
Beach
1/10
Known for
Nearby places
Map view
Polonnaruwa location
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Experiences
Experiences in Polonnaruwa
Hidden Gems
Hidden Gems in Polonnaruwa
Food & Dining
Food & Dining in Polonnaruwa
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Polonnaruwa
Getting Around
Getting Around in Polonnaruwa
When to Visit
When to Visit in Polonnaruwa
Budget
Budget in Polonnaruwa
Safety
Safety in Polonnaruwa
Travel Tips
Travel Tips in Polonnaruwa
Suggested Itineraries
Suggested Itineraries in Polonnaruwa
Nearby destinations
Itineraries featuring Polonnaruwa
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