Polonnaruwa Ancient City Bike Tour Backpackers Solo Travellers
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join our Polonnaruwa Hero Hunk Bike Tour for an unforgettable ride through Sri Lanka’s ancient royal capital, where history, nature, and adventure come together in one amazing experience. Cycle through the UNESCO-listed Ancient City of Polonnaruwa along peaceful scenic paths, exploring iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace, Audience Hall, sacred stupas, and the breathtaking Gal Vihara rock-carved Buddha statues. With a friendly local guide sharing fascinating stories and hidden details, you’ll discover the true charm of this legendary kingdom while enjoying fresh air, beautiful surroundings, and plenty of photo stops. Perfect for travelers who want a fun, active, and cultural journey, this bike tour is the best way to experience Polonnaruwa in an exciting and memorable way.
Available options
Polonnaruwa Ancient City Bike Tour Backpackers Solo Travellers
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Bottled water
Fuel surcharge
Parking Fees
Detailed itinerary
1
Walk through the remains of the old capital city, where travelers can see palaces, royal halls, and ancient city planning that dates back nearly 1,000 years.One of the highlights is Gal Vihara, featuring stunning Buddha statues carved into granite rock, including the standing, seated, and reclining Buddha—a must-see for every visitor.
2
Travelers will learn about the genius engineering behind the ancient water system, including views of the famous Parakrama Samudraya (Sea of Parakrama), a massive reservoir built centuries ago.
3
Travelers will stand before the impressive ancient statue believed to represent King Parakramabahu the Great, one of Sri Lanka’s most powerful rulers.
4
The Minneriya reservoir is very scenic, great for sunset photos and peaceful nature shots.
It’s common to see elephants, deer, birds, buffalo, and monkeys coming to drink water—especially in the evening.
What's not included
Entrance fees to ancient Site
Available languages
Written guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Minneriya Hotel Area
About Batticaloa
Batticaloa is a coastal city in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant fishing community. The city offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and traditional experiences that make it a distinctive destination in Sri Lanka.
Top Attractions
Batticaloa Lagoon
The Batticaloa Lagoon is a beautiful natural feature with serene waters and scenic views, perfect for boating and fishing.
Nature
1-2 hours
Budget
Batticaloa Fort
This historic fort was built by the Dutch in the 17th century and offers a glimpse into the city's colonial past.
Historical
1 hour
Free
Kallady Bridge
This iconic bridge connects Batticaloa to the mainland and is a popular spot for photography and relaxation.
Architectural
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Lamprais
A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables wrapped in a banana leaf.
Main Course
Contains meat
Kokis
A crispy, deep-fried snack made from rice flour and coconut.
Snack
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Boating
Water sports
Beach walks
Sunbathing
Historical site visits
Local festivals
Swimming
Fishing
Best Time to Visit
January to April
This is the best time to visit Batticaloa as the weather is pleasant and dry, making it ideal for beach activities and sightseeing.
28°C to 32°C
82°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Sinhala, Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Batticaloa is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of scams
- • Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas
Getting there
By air
- Batticaloa Airport • 5 km from city center
By train
Batticaloa Railway Station
By bus
Batticaloa Bus Stand
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Batticaloa.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PickMe
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Kallady
Day trips
Pasikudah
30 km • Half day
Pasikudah is a beautiful beach destination known for its white sand and clear waters.
Kumana National Park
60 km • Full day
Kumana National Park is a wildlife sanctuary known for its diverse birdlife and scenic landscapes.
Festivals
Batticaloa Festival • August
Pro tips
- Visit the Batticaloa Lagoon for a serene and relaxing experience.
- Explore the city's historical sites, including the Batticaloa Fort.
- Try local seafood dishes at the beachfront restaurants.
- Book accommodations in advance during peak season.
- Use public transport for an affordable and authentic experience.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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