A Guide to Cycling Around Polonnaruwa: Ancient City

Do you want to explore the ancient city of Sri Lanka and discover the ruins of an ancient kingdom? Take a guided cycling tour of Polonnaruwa in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. A cycling tour is one of the best ways to explore and uncover the golden histories, cultural nuances and traditional sites of this well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site.

5 Reasons to Take a Guided Cycle Tour of Polonnaruwa

If you are dreaming of a cultural and historical trip to Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, taking a guided cycling tour of Polonnaruwa should be a part of your itinerary. Here are five reasons why:

• It’s a convenient way to explore Polonnaruwa – Saving time and energy by cycling, instead of walking makes it easier to map out an organized route, allowing you to cover larger swathes of the site in less time.
• It’s a reliable option – When you join a tour guided by an experienced operator, they will be aware of the main sites, history and culture associated with the region. Plus since pre-booking is involved, you can be rest assured that all logistics related to the tour will be taken care of.
• It allows you to navigate the site better – With a local guide by your side, you can be sure that you don’t miss out on any significant sites in this vast area.
• It makes for a more memorable and fulfilling experience – Since the Polonnaruwa site is quite spread out, you will be able to appreciate the restored ruins more when on two wheels and gain more insight into the ancient city.
• It lets you explore at your own pace – While group cycling tours offer an efficient way to explore, off-road biking allows you to freely explore and experience the site in entirety as and when you like. A knowledgeable guide is also likely to help with any personal interests you might have during the tour.

Polonnaruwa: Ancient City Guided Cycle Tour

If you are interested in exploring Polonnaruwa via a guided tour, here is what you can expect:

• Duration: You can find cycling tours with durations ranging from a half day (4 hours) to full days.
• Meeting Point: Meeting points will usually be at your accommodated place such as hotels, hostels or guest houses.
• Route Overview: The route outline depends on the duration and features of the tour. However, some of the sites that may be included in the tour include, Pothgul Viharaya which is seen as one of the finest examples of architecture from the Polonnaruwa era; Hatadage, a relic house; Tivanka Pilimage which is one of the most significant places for Buddhists; and several other landmarks such as Rankoth Vehera, Kiri Vehera and Gal Viharaya.

Apart from these attractions, your guide has insider knowledge and is likely to take you on detours, narration on culture and history as they guide you while cycling. If wildlife watching is something that interests you, your guide will also likely show different endemic species across the areas. Most tours also offer refreshments and snacks mid-tour.

Things to Consider before Booking a Cycling Tour of Polonnaruwa

Before making your booking, here are few points worth considering:

• Selecting an authentic operator: Before making a booking with any operator, research on their reviews from users as well as industry websites through which booking takes place. A good operator will have local guides who are able to provide constructive knowledge such as habitat information about specific species that might be located along the way.
• Kinds of bicycles available: Most operators rent bikes but check for the kind of bicycles available i.e. hybrid or mountain bikes. Additionally, check if bike sizes available match your body frame.
• Duration: Choose a duration that suits your cycling ability as well as interests in terms of sightseeing.
• Weather: The weather in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province can be unpredictable so make sure to check prior to booking. In case of heavy rainfall or extreme heat, have a plan B – take an alternate activity for sightseeing or make use this time for relaxation.

How Can You Book a Guided Cycling Tour in Polonnaruwa?

Making bookings through online operators like Get Your Guide is the most convenient way to guarantee availability. Get Your Guide offers several different tour options with authentic local guides who are knowledgeable about Polonnaruwa’s culture, history and wildlife. They also offer travel insurance, e-vouchers which can be used as evidence for entry tickets etc. as well as 24/7 customer support. Booking online ahead of travel can ensure hassle-free and well-organised tours during vacations with helpful local guides.
Take this once in a lifetime chance to experience one of Sri Lanka’s well preserved UNESCO World Heritage Sites on two wheels. Get closer to nature, uncover local mysteries and become part of this historic city by exploring it on bicycles. Get Your Guide can help make sure that you have an amazing journey through their personalized tour offerings. So don’t wait for more time, book your cycling tour now through Get Your Guide.