Polonnaruwa Ancient Kingdom and Wild Elephant Safari from Sigiriya

During this full-day tour from Sigiriya, explore the magnificent ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka's most important historical capitals. Discover centuries-old temples, royal palaces, and remarkable stone carvings before heading into the wilderness of Minneriya National Park for an exciting jeep safari experience among wild elephants and other native wildlife.

Highlights

1. Sigiriya / Habarana Hotel Pickup

• Comfortable pickup from your hotel in the Sigiriya or Habarana area.
• Travel with an experienced English-speaking chauffeur guide.

2. Polonnaruwa Ancient City

• Explore the UNESCO-listed ruins of Sri Lanka's medieval capital.
• Visit the Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum.
• Discover the Statue of King Parakramabahu I, Pothgul Viharaya, Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu, Polonnaruwa Vatadage, Siva Devalaya No. 1, Rankoth Vehera, Manik Vehera, Kiri Vehera, Lankathilaka Image House, and the iconic Gal Vihara.

3. Minneriya National Park Safari

• Enjoy a thrilling 3–4 hour 4x4 jeep safari.
• Experience Sri Lanka's famous wild elephant habitat.
• Spot elephants, sambar deer, monkeys, crocodiles, peacocks, and various bird species.

Includes:

• Transport throughout the tour with an air-conditioned vehicle.
• Service of an English-speaking chauffeur guide.
• 4x4 Jeep Safari in Minneriya National Park.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off from Sigiriya or Habarana.
• Entrance fees to Polonnaruwa Ancient City and Minneriya National Park. (if you select "with ticket" option)
• Bottled drinking water.

Excludes

• Entrance fees to Polonnaruwa Ancient City and Minneriya National Park. (if you select "with no ticket" option)
• Food or drinks.
• Gratuities (Optional).
• Expenses of a personal nature.

Experience:

You will begin your tour with a pickup from your hotel in Sigiriya or Habarana, where you will meet your chauffeur guide and start your journey towards the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.

After approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes of driving, arrive at Polonnaruwa, the second major capital of ancient Sri Lanka. Begin your exploration at the Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum before entering the historic city complex.

Discover the remarkable achievements of Sri Lanka's ancient civilization as you visit the Statue of King Parakramabahu I, Pothgul Viharaya, the Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu, Polonnaruwa Vatadage, Siva Devalaya No. 1, Rankoth Vehera, Manik Vehera, Kiri Vehera, Lankathilaka Image House, and the world-famous Gal Vihara, home to beautifully carved Buddha statues created from a single granite rock.

After exploring Polonnaruwa, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant or choose a picnic-style meal before continuing your journey to Minneriya National Park.

Upon arrival at the park, transfer into a safari jeep and begin your wildlife adventure through the dry-zone forests, grasslands, and around the scenic Minneriya Reservoir. The park is famous for its large elephant population, and depending on the season, you may witness the spectacular gathering of wild elephants. During the safari, you will also have opportunities to observe deer, monkeys, crocodiles, and a variety of colorful birdlife.

After completing the safari, return to your vehicle and enjoy a comfortable drive back to Sigiriya. The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel after an unforgettable day combining Sri Lanka's ancient heritage and natural wonders.

Notes:

• Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended.
• Safari duration may vary depending on wildlife activity and weather conditions.
• Please do not feed animals or leave plastic waste during the safari.
• Depending on animal movements, Minneriya National Park may be replaced with Kaudulla or Hurulu Eco Park.