Polonnaruwa trip planner

Lying 216 km (134 mi) from Colombo, Polonnaruwa offers a rich history second in Sri Lanka only to Arunadhapura. The major attraction in Polonnaruwa is a packed archeological park protecting the ruins of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a World Heritage Site. Its masterful stone carvings, palace complexes, and temples dating back to the 11th century testify to splendor and grandeur of the former kingdom. Two nearby national parks, both centered around large ponds, provide a sanctuary for Sri Lanka's most iconic animals: elephants. Many visitors also choose to head to an 800-year-old reservoir complex to enjoy a nice picnic site and explore wildlife reserves. Plan your visit to Polonnaruwa and other destinations in Sri Lanka using our Sri Lanka trip planner.