How to plan your ultimate solo vacation to Polonnaruwa

There would be many places to visit in the island nation of Sri Lanka that would capture the imagination of the culture and history lover and undoubtedly one of them would be the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. During your visit to this ancient city, you will have the opportunity to admire engrossing archaeological sites and enjoy interesting things to do as well. Provided below is more information regarding planning a visit to this historically significant city. 

Consider the time to visit

As Sri Lanka experiences warm tropical weather year-round, it would be quite possible to enjoy a satisfying visit to Polonnaruwa at any time. However, if you desire optimal conditions, probably the best time to visit this city would be from November to March which would be conducive for sightseeing as well as other outdoor pursuits. Meanwhile, the period from June through August would also be an appealing time to visit with many sightseers arriving at this time.

On the other hand, if your priority is to minimize expenditures you could consider visiting from September to November; while there would be some rain during this period, visitor numbers would be at their lowest and you could save on accommodation and other expenditures.

Know how to get around

There would be a number of good ways in which to travel around Polonnaruwa on your sightseeing excursions. A popular way of getting about would be by using the tuk-tuks which you would readily find here just as in other parts of Sri Lanka. Often, travelling by tuk-tuk would be a distinctive and enjoyable experience. You would also have the opportunity to join an organized bus tour that would take you to the city’s sightseeing highlights.

Another attractive option would be renting bicycles and cycling from one archaeological site to the other. Finally, as Polonnaruwa would not be of vast size you could also consider walking between some of the attractions.

Admire the sights

Council Chamber at Polonnaruwa | Image via flickr

As you might expect, there would be an array of engrossing historical attractions to visit during your trip to this ancient city which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A great place to start would be the palace complex where the monarch Nissanka Malla once resided. It is believed that originally this palace featured several granite pillars that supported a sizable twin-storey structure. Another nearby attraction would be the Pothgul Viharaya which once was a monastery where important books were stored.
You could then make your way to one of the city’s sightseeing highlights, the royal palace of the renowned monarch Parakramabahu. 

By observing the absorbing ruins to be seen here, you could gain an understanding of the grandeur of this building in its heyday. Adjacently, you would find the Audience Hall of the king, where you would notice the ruins of a magnificent stairway. Your sightseeing tour should also include the Sacred Quadrangle where many intriguing ancient remnants could be seen. One of the hotels near Polonnaruwa to consider from which you could easily visit this attraction would be Hotel Sudu Araliya.

Enjoy the things to do

There would also be several other interesting experiences to enjoy during your visit to this historical city. One of these would be viewing the playful monkeys who inhabit the area; these creatures were featured in the well-known documentary ‘Monkey Kingdom’ as well which you can consider watching before or after your visit.
Another engrossing local experience would be hiring a bicycle and venturing out to explore the entrancing surroundings of the city. 

As you might expect, this would be a marvellous way to take in the local sights; you would find that as the important sites would be signposted clearly in English, it should be easy to find your way around.

You may also take the opportunity to enjoy Polonnaruwa’s dining opportunities with an array of attractive restaurants and eateries to be found here that serve up authentic local cuisine.