Weekend Guide · Sri Lanka
Weekend in Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa — Sri Lanka's medieval royal capital, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with remarkably well-preserved palaces, temples, and rock-cut Buddha statues set around a vast ancient reservoir..
2 days recommended Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
Day 1
Arrive & Explore Polonnaruwa
Royal Palace of Parakramabahu
The ruins of a once-towering seven-story royal palace, the heart of the ancient Polonnaruwa kingdom
Gal Vihara
A stunning group of Buddha statues carved directly into a granite rock face, considered a masterpiece of ancient Sinhalese sculpture
Polonnaruwa Vatadage
An elegant circular relic house with intricate stone carvings, considered one of the finest examples of ancient Sri Lankan architecture
Day 2
Hidden Gems & Local Flavours
Parakrama Samudra
A massive ancient man-made reservoir built by King Parakramabahu, still in use today and popular for sunset views
Local Tips
- 1Sri Lanka is one of the best-value destinations in Asia.
- 2Sri Lanka is generally very safe for tourists, with low rates of violent crime.