From Sigiriya:Polonnaruwa Day Tour with Farmers lunch

Discover Sri Lanka’s Heritage and Flavors: The Sigiriya-Polonnaruwa Day Tour

This full-day tour from Sigiriya takes you to the remarkably well-preserved ancient city of Polonnaruwa for a deep dive into Sri Lanka’s historical grandeur. For $58 per person, you’ll enjoy a comfortable ride with a friendly driver, explore iconic ruins, and savor a traditional farmers’ lunch overlooking lush paddy fields. The tour is designed to balance rich archaeological sights with authentic local culture and cuisine.

What we love most? First, the opportunity to wander through centuries-old ruins like the Royal Palace, Gal Vihara, and Lankathilaka—each offering stunning photo opportunities and a sense of stepping back in time. Second, the farmers’ lunch serves up an impressive spread of Sri Lankan curries and local flavors, set in a peaceful countryside setting—refreshing and genuinely authentic.

A possible consideration? The $30 entrance fee to the ancient city isn’t included in the price, so budget accordingly. Also, if you’re eager for a detailed guide at each ruin, you might want to arrange a private guide for an extra fee.

This tour suits history buffs, photography enthusiasts, and anyone craving a taste of Sri Lanka’s local life and cuisine. If you love exploring archaeological sites with a relaxed vibe, this is a fantastic choice.

Key Points

• Historic Sights: Explore well-preserved ruins like the Royal Palace, Gal Vihara, and Vatadage.
• Authentic Cuisine: Enjoy a traditional farmers’ lunch with an array of curries overlooking a picturesque paddy field.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pickup, and friendly driver make logistics easy.
• Value for Money: At $58, the tour combines culture, history, and food for a reasonable price.
• Photo Opportunities: Stunning ruins and scenic views perfect for photography.
• Flexible and Relaxed: Keep your plans flexible with the option to book and pay later, and cancel easily if needed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting from Sigiriya – Convenient Pickup and Comfortable Transport

The tour begins with hotel pickup, which many reviews highlighted as smooth and hassle-free. Your driver, often praised for friendliness and cleanliness, becomes your guide to the day’s highlights. Traveling in a well-maintained, air-conditioned vehicle means you can relax and focus on the sights ahead without worrying about traffic or navigation.

The Ruins of Polonnaruwa – A Walk Through the Past

Once you arrive, you’ll walk through what many consider the best-preserved archaeological site in Sri Lanka. The ruins vividly reflect a once-thriving metropolis of the 11th and 12th centuries.

Royal Palace: The grand remains of Sri Lanka’s royal residence give a sense of the grandeur of the past. We loved the way the massive stone foundations hint at the former scale of power and luxury.

Gal Vihara: The striking rock-cut Buddha statues are a highlight. These statues, carved from a single granite boulder, are breathtaking in their detail and serenity—perfect for photography.

Vatadage: This circular stupa, designed to enshrine relics, offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s Buddhist architecture. Its intricate stonework and layout are fascinating for those interested in religious history.

Nissanka Latha Mandapaya: Known for its intricately carved pillars, it shows the sophistication of ancient craftsmanship.

Lankathilaka: This medieval temple exemplifies Sri Lanka’s architectural brilliance, with its towering structure and detailed carvings.

Lotus Pond: Shaped like an eight-petalled lotus flower, the pond adds a peaceful aesthetic to the ruins and offers more excellent photo ops.

Parakrama Samudra: The largest artificial lake in Sri Lanka, built to supply water for irrigation, offers a beautiful landscape to relax and reflect on the engineering skills of the past.

Photography and Exploration – Capture the Moment

Many travelers, including Valentina and Hung, enjoyed the chance to take photos of the ruins and the scenic backdrop. We loved the way the ruins’ weathered stones and statues tell stories of bygone eras. Just be mindful of monkeys when you’re having a snack—they’re curious and quick.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authentic Sri Lankan Cuisine – The Farmers’ Lunch

The lunch is the tour’s highlight for many, as it offers a generous spread of curries, rice, and local fruits, all served in a charming setting overlooking a verdant paddy field. According to reviews, the lunch is delicious and authentic—a true taste of Sri Lankan home-cooked flavors. The setting adds to the experience, giving you a breather in nature after walking among ancient stones.

Note: The lunch includes fruit juices, which vary depending on availability—papaya, watermelon, or lime, for example. Alcoholic drinks are not included or permitted at the lunch.

Considerations for Travelers

While the tour is quite comprehensive, keep in mind the entrance fee of $30 for the archaeological site is not included. If you’re keen on detailed commentary at each ruin, you might consider renting a guide for an additional $25. Also, bringing your passport is essential if you plan to buy tickets directly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers looking for a combination of history, culture, and scenic beauty. It suits those who enjoy photography, want to avoid the hassle of organizing transport, and appreciate authentic local food. The relaxed pace and friendly guide make it suitable for first-time visitors and seasoned explorers alike.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Day

• Bring your passport for the entrance fee and any personal identification.
• Wear comfortable shoes—many ruins are best explored on foot, and some areas require a bit of climbing.
• Carry sun protection—hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential, especially if visiting during the hotter months.
• Be aware of monkeys; avoid feeding them or leaving food unattended.
• Budget extra for entrance fees and optional guides if you want a more detailed experience.

The Sum Up

This Sigiriya to Polonnaruwa day tour offers a fantastic blend of archaeological discovery, scenic beauty, and local flavor for a modest price. The well-preserved ruins and authentic Sri Lankan lunch make it a well-rounded, memorable experience.

It’s especially suited for those who value history, photography, and genuine cultural experiences over luxury or high-adrenaline adventures. The friendly guides, comfortable transportation, and authentic cuisine ensure you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Sri Lanka’s heritage and a satisfied palate.

If you’re eager to explore one of Sri Lanka’s most impressive ancient sites while enjoying a delicious, local farmers’ meal, this tour hits the right note—worth considering on your itinerary.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making the logistics smooth and straightforward.

How much does the entrance fee cost?
The entrance to Polonnaruwa is $30 per person and is not included in the tour price.

Can I bring my own guide?
While the tour includes a friendly driver, if you want more detailed explanations at each ruin, you can rent a specialized guide for an extra $25.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your passport, comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera to capture stunning ruins and landscapes.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a farmers’ lunch with fruit juice is included in the tour price. Alcoholic beverages are not available.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

This tour combines history, culture, and cuisine in a way that’s accessible and engaging. Perfect for travelers who want authentic experiences with minimal fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: