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Getting Around Polonnaruwa

Getting Around Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa The Ancient Cities, Sri Lanka Travel Guide

Public Transportation

Within Polonnaruwa itself, public transportation options are limited compared to larger Ceylonese cities. The main form of public transit is bus services in the area.

These buses mainly serve residents for commuting between Polonnaruwa New Town and nearby villages or for inter-city travel. They are not typically ideal for exploring the spread-out ancient city.

Bus System Overview

  • Restricted Selections: No metro/trams; public buses for residents.
  • Main Hub: Polonnaruwa New Town Bus Stand.
  • Ticketing & Fares: Very low fares, pay conductor.
  • Hours & Frequency: Daylight hours, varies by route.

Accessibility

Public buses are generally not accessible for travelers with mobility challenges (high steps, narrow aisles).

Explore Effectively

Bicycle rentals or hiring a tuk-tuk work far more functional for ancient city exploration.

Local Advice

Asking your guesthouse owner for advice on local bus routes is often the best way.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Tuk-tuks: Identification & Fares
  • Ubiquitous three-wheeled vehicles, easily hailed.
  • Always discuss the price before starting the ride.
  • Short rides: LKR 200-500. Full-day hire for old city: LKR 2,500-4,000.
Ride-Sharing & Safety
  • Ride-sharing apps (PickMe, Uber) are not common in Polonnaruwa.
  • Arrange tuk-tuks through your accommodation for trusted drivers.
  • Avoid overly pushy drivers or unusually cheap prices.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Requires IDP & AAC endorsement; complex driving conditions.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Less common; need license/endorsement; caution advised.

Bicycle Rental

Widely available (LKR 500-1,000/day); best for ancient city exploration.

Tuk-tuk Hire

Main specialty vehicle with driver for tours (half/full-day).

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. International traffic rules apply, but local driving styles present aggression. Roads can be different widely.

Road Quality

  • Major highways generally paved and in good condition.
  • Smaller roads and rural paths may show potholes or unpaved sections.
  • Driving has challenge due to aggressive habits, mixed traffic, pedestrians, and living beings.
  • Parking is generally at major ancient locations inside the historical excavation site.

Walking & Cycling

  • Polonnaruwa New Town is generally walkable.
  • Ancient city complex is very distributed; cycling is recommended for efficiency.
  • Well-maintained, relatively flat paths for cycling within the archaeological ruins.
  • Self-guided walking is possible for individual clusters of ruins.

Bicycle Safety & No-Go Areas

  • Generally safe for cycling within the archaeological park.
  • Be cautious on public roads, especially outside the principal town.
  • Avoid cycling after dark outside the main town due to poor lighting and wildlife.
  • Avoid remote rural roads at night, especially bordering national parks.
  • Potential presence of wild elephants or other nocturnal animals.
  • Remain in well-lit areas in Polonnaruwa New Town after dark.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

No sightseeing bus-on-hop-off. Planned day outings from Cultural Triangle operators are available.

Water Transport

Not applicable. Parakrama Samudra for irrigation/fishing, not passengers.

Unique Transport

No cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local systems exist.

Accessibility Services

Infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges is generally limited in Sri Lanka, and Polonnaruwa is no exception.

Challenges at Ancient Sites

  • Ancient sites often are irregular terrain and sets of steps.
  • Lack of ramps makes access difficult for wheelchair users.
  • Public buses are not accessible.
  • Some locations may present great challenge for mobility.

Recommendations for Mobility Needs

  • Private transport (a chauffeured car) shows the most flexibility and comfort.
  • Drivers can drop off close to sites where available.
  • Explore accessible parts of the ruins.
  • Research specific site accessibility beforehand.

Overall Transport Tip

Consider Interests

When choosing transport options, consider your interests and budget.

Personal Preference

Bicycles for Sites

Bicycles are ideal for exploring the historic city at your own pace.

Ideal Exploration

Tuk-tuks/Cars for Distances

Tuk-tuks or private cars suit longer distances or guided tours.

Longer Journeys

Travel Safety Reminders

Public Transport Risks
  • Buses might get packed and lack air conditioning.
  • Petty theft (pickpocketing) occurs in crowded areas.
  • Exercise normal vigilance in busy markets or bus stations.
Road Driving Hazards
  • Aggressive driving habits, mixed congestion on roads.
  • Pedestrians and animals (cows, dogs) often present on roads.
  • Rural roads have chuckholes and are less maintained.

Emergency Response & Contact

  • Police: 119
  • Ambulance/Fire: 112
  • Tourist Police: 011-2421052
  • Have a list of these numbers readily accessible.
  • Hotel/guesthouse the workers are often good area resources.
  • Private hospitals in Colombo for serious medical issues.
  • Be mindful of localized flooding during monsoon.
  • Exercise caution near national parks for wild elephants, notably at night.

Choosing Your Ride

Consider your interests and budget when choosing transport options.

Bicycles are ideal for the historic city, while tuk-tuks or private cars suit longer distances or guided tours.

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