Things to do in Polonnaruwa

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Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa featuring heritage elements

Polonnaruwa Attractions

There's something quite charming about smaller cities. Whether you're going to Polonnaruwa for a weekend escape or you're contemplating staying for longer, it won't take you long to fall in love with this place. In fact, with so many wonderful things to do and interesting attractions to take in, you mightn't want to go home!

Explore the best sights in Polonnaruwa with some popular tours & day trips, or try out our list of {34 fun activities in Polonnaruwa fun activities in Polonnaruwa}. We have no booking fees as well as free cancellation, so you can relax and channel your energy into planning your perfect vacation.

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What to do in Polonnaruwa

Free Things to Do in Polonnaruwa

Escaping to Polonnaruwa on a budget? The following can be seen for zip.

Gal Pota - If you'd love to explore the region's history through its landmarks, include this one on your must-see list.

Hatadage - Enjoy some quiet reflection and find out a thing or two about this site's religious importance.

Things to Do in Polonnaruwa with Kids

There are plenty of incredible experiences in Polonnaruwa that the whole gang will get a buzz out of. Here are some of the most popular family friendly experiences in the area.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Polonnaruwa? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Polonnaruwa

You can hire a bike and spend a day exploring the ancient sites of Polonnaruwa. This was one of the most impressive temples for us. Visit in the afternoon for the best light. #ontheroad #temples #Sri Lanka #ruins #polonnaruwa

Lankatilaka Temple

You can find out about the history of Polonnaruwa with a stop at Lankatilaka Temple. Amble around the area's lakeside, or seek out its biking trails.

Lankatilaka Temple
Some of the ancient ruins found at Polonwurra.

Gal Pota

Find out about the history of Polonnaruwa when you take a trip to Gal Pota. Stroll along the lakeside or seek out the biking trails.

Gal Pota
Kiri Vihara Temple

Kiri Vihara Temple

You can find out about the history of Polonnaruwa with a trip to Kiri Vihara Temple. Stroll along the lakeside or seek out the biking trails.

Kiri Vihara Temple

Gal Viharaya

You can find out about the history of Nissankamallapura when you stop by Gal Viharaya. Amble around the area's lakeside, or seek out its biking trails.

Gal Viharaya

Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum

You can spend time browsing the exhibits at Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum during your trip to Polonnaruwa. Stroll along the lakeside or seek out the biking trails.

Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum

Polonnaruwa Vatadage

After visiting Polonnaruwa Vatadage, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Polonnaruwa. Stroll along the lakeside or seek out the biking trails.

Polonnaruwa Vatadage

Hatadage

Find out about the history of Polonnaruwa with a stop at Hatadage. Stroll along the lakeside or seek out the biking trails.

Hatadage

Shiva Devalaya

Find out about the history of Polonnaruwa when you take a trip to Shiva Devalaya. Amble around the area's lakeside, or seek out its biking trails.

Shiva Devalaya

Rankot Vihara

Find out about the history of Polonnaruwa when you spend time at Rankot Vihara. Stroll along the lakeside or seek out the biking trails.

Rankot Vihara

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Polonnaruwa

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Kaduruwela

While there might not be top attractions in Kaduruwela, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Gal Viharaya and Parakrama Samudra.

Kaduruwela
See our Where To Stay guide

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Frequently asked questions

Is Polonnaruwa worth visiting?
Offering a mix of walking trails and history, there are many things to do in Polonnaruwa. When you're here, head to Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum, a must-see attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Polonnaruwa?
Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum and Polonnaruwa Vatadage are two awesome places to start your getaway adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and shopping options in Polonnaruwa while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Polonnaruwa?
You can't leave without checking out Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum, ranked the top tourist attraction in Polonnaruwa.
Is three days enough to stay in Polonnaruwa?
Three days will give you time to check out the leading city sights, like Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum, Polonnaruwa Vatadage and Gal Viharaya. The average stay in Polonnaruwa is two days. If you have the time to extend your adventure, Dambulla isn't far away.
Is Polonnaruwa a walkable city?
Some major attractions in Polonnaruwa, such as Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum and Polonnaruwa Vatadage, are within walking distance. You can also enjoy several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Just 2 miles from the city center of Polonnaruwa is New Town and Kaduruwela is 2 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Polonnaruwa with kids?
Whether you're traveling with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a schedule filled with fun activities takes your trip to the next level. Check out our recommendations for what to do in Polonnaruwa with kids.

What to do in Polonnaruwa for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or outdoor explorer, there's no shortage of things to do in Polonnaruwa for adults including Gal Pota and Nissanka Latha Mandapaya.
Are there free things to do in Polonnaruwa?
From checking out parks to wandering around vibrant neighborhoods, it's a breeze to find free things to do in Polonnaruwa. If you need new ideas, ask a local tour guide for some tips. Rankot Vihara is a top spot for anyone wanting to save on their sightseeing adventures.