Embracing the Ancient Wonders of Polonnaruwa

As the sun rises over the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, the warm June breeze carries with it the whispers of a bygone era. This weekend, immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history and culture that this UNESCO World Heritage site has to offer. Begin your journey with the Ancient Kingdom Tour, available from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM. This tour is a perfect blend of archaeology and nature, guiding you through the majestic ruins of royal structures and historic religious temples. As you wander through the ancient city, the partly cloudy skies provide a gentle respite from the sun, making it an ideal day for exploration.

The tour also includes an exhilarating half-day safari in Minneriya National Park, where you can witness the grandeur of Sri Lankan elephants in their natural habitat. The moderate wind speeds and excellent visibility enhance the experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of the landscape. As one recent review noted, “Wonderful!!! - My husband and I recently took part in the Polonnaruwa Ancient Kingdom and Wild Elephant Safari tour from Habarana. We had a fantastic time and received excellent care throughout the day. Our guide was both professional and friendly, making us feel completely at ease. Even during the safari, we had the opportunity to enjoy a splendid day and were lucky enough to witness a stunning location teeming with animals. We wholeheartedly recommend this tour!” (Reviewed on 2023-08-13)

A Day of Wildlife and Serenity

On the second day of your Polonnaruwa adventure, embrace the tranquility of nature with a visit to Wasgamuwa National Park. The Wasgamuwa Safari offers a unique opportunity to observe the diverse wildlife of Sri Lanka, from the majestic elephants to the vibrant bird species. Available from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM and again from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, this safari is a perfect way to start or end your day.

The morning safari provides a serene experience as the park awakens with the first light of day. The overcast skies gradually clear, offering a picturesque backdrop for your wildlife adventure. As you traverse the park in a private safari jeep, the moderate wind gusts add a refreshing touch to the warm day. A recent review captures the essence of this experience: “One of the best lifetime experiences! - It was absolutely fantastic! Few days we were in Uduwalawa National Park which was also beautiful and we saw like 5 elephants. But this trip to Wasgamuwa was completely different level! We saw around 40 elephants including babies and they were so close to us we could touch them (of course we didn’t :)).” (Reviewed on 2020-02-17)

Cultural Reflections and Modern Comforts

As your weekend in Polonnaruwa draws to a close, take a moment to reflect on the cultural richness and natural beauty that this region has to offer. The ancient marvels of Polonnaruwa, combined with the vibrant wildlife of Wasgamuwa, create a harmonious blend of history and nature that is truly captivating.

The warm, partly cloudy weather of June provides the perfect backdrop for this exploration, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Whether you’re marveling at the ancient ruins or observing the majestic elephants, the moderate humidity and wind speeds ensure a comfortable journey.

As you prepare to leave, the memories of this weekend will linger, a testament to the timeless allure of Polonnaruwa. This journey through history and nature is not just a trip, but a meaningful exploration of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, offering insights that resonate long after you’ve returned home.