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Getting Around Polonnaruwa

Getting Around Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa The Ancient Cities, Sri Lanka Travel Guide

Public Transportation

Within Polonnaruwa itself, public options for getting around are limited compared to larger Ceylonese cities. The main form of public transit is local bus services.

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

Bus System Overview

  • Restricted Selections: No metro/trams; local 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 historic city exploration.

Local Advice

Asking your inn 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 ancient city: LKR 2,500-4,000.
Ride-Sharing & Safety
  • Ride-sharing apps (PickMe, Uber) are not widely available in Polonnaruwa.
  • Arrange tuk-tuks through your accommodation for trusted drivers.
  • Avoid overly pushy drivers or unusually low prices.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Requires IDP & AAC endorsement; complex road conditions.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Less common; need license/endorsement; caution advised.

Bicycle Rental

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

Tuk-tuk Hire

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

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Driving is on the left side of the road. International road laws apply, yet local driving styles present aggression. Road conditions vary widely.

Road Quality

  • Main 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 places within the ancient site.

Walking & Cycling

  • Polonnaruwa New Town is generally walkable.
  • Ancient city complex is very distributed; cycling is encouraged for efficiency.
  • Well-maintained, relatively flat paths for cycling within the archaeological site.
  • 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 tourist bus-on-hop-off. Planned day excursions 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

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

Challenges at Ancient Sites

  • Ancient sites often have uneven terrain and stairs.
  • 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 private car with a driver) shows the most flexibility and comfort.
  • Drivers can drop off close to sites where possible.
  • 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 perfect for discovering the ancient 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 can 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
  • Reckless 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
  • Keep a list of these numbers readily accessible.
  • Hotel/guesthouse staff are often good local resources.
  • Private medical centers in Colombo for serious medical issues.
  • Be mindful of localized flooding during monsoon.
  • Exercise caution near national parks for wild elephants, particularly after dark.

Choosing Your Ride

Consider your interests and budget when choosing transport options.

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

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