Cycling Through a Bygone Time, Polonnaruwa
Sri Lanka, Cultural Triangle

Polonnaruwa was the second capital of Sri Lanka starting from the 8^th century, flourishing for over 500 years. Unlike the historic sites in the first capital, Anuradhapura, which are mainly Buddhist religious sites, in Polonnaruwa, with influences from India, the historic sites are of multi storey palaces, royal pavilions, bathing ponds complete with changing rooms; all standing testament to the luxurious life style of the royalty but also Buddhist and Hindu temples with flawless craftsmanship and artistry.

Polonnaruwa is a unique city with lakes and sites not far apart, paving the way for a fabulous experience on bicycles! You can weave around from ponds to temples, marvelling in the wonders built over 700 years ago, with the wind in your hair while taking in the landscape along the way. It’s a great opportunity to experience the local life too. Stop on the roadside for a refreshing ‘king coconut’ or even at a roadside shop for a yummy snack of ‘pol roti’ hot off the hearth!

Half a day cycling through Polonnaruwa will bring the splendours of the city closer to you, transporting you to another time.