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Polonnaruwa, Where Ancient Stories Come to Life

Rent a Tuktuk in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka!

The city of Polonnaruwa is a magnificently preserved city with rich archaeological monuments and natural beauty.

Polonnaruwa has both its ancient city, an adjoining “old town”, as well as a “new town” located about 6 km away. The archaeological sites are in a compact layout, within easy distance of each other, and tours are easily arranged either on foot or could be explored in your tuktuk. Hop on a tuk-tuk and embark on a fascinating journey through Polonnaruwa’s ancient city and surrounding areas. The convenience of a tuk-tuk allows you to effortlessly explore the archaeological sites, navigate the charming old town, and even venture towards the new town. From Polonnaruwa, you can easily reach the East Coast, which gives you an easy route to Sigiriya, Mineriya and Habarana.

Things to Do in and Around Polonnaruwa

Cultural immersion - Explore the wonders of Polonnaruwa by tuktuk, where ancient treasures meet lush paddy fields.
Cultural immersion - Explore the wonders of Polonnaruwa by tuktuk, where ancient treasures meet lush paddy fields 📸 @sofimprado

Rent a Tuktuk in Polonnaruwa with Tuktukrental.com

Obtain Your Sri Lankan Recognition Permit from Polonnaruwa

Driving a tuktuk in Sri Lanka requires a special recognition permit, and there are two ways to get this. Either with your “International Driving Permit / IDP” or your “Regular National Country Licence” with B/C endorsement (depending on your country where B/C is representing the car) on it.

We can obtain your recognition permit from the AAC (Automobile Association of Ceylon) with any of the two. You will receive an email with the licence form where you can upload the documents, and we will have it ready at your pickup in Polonnaruwa. You can read more information about the Sri Lankan recognition permit here!

Get Covered with Our Comprehensive Insurance

All our tuktuks come with comprehensive insurance covering damage to your tuktuk and other vehicles. It also covers personal injury to you, your passengers, and 3rd parties. Read more about the insurance coverage here!

Master Your Tuktuk: Get Comfortable Before Beginning Your Journey from Polonnaruwa

We will provide you with an online briefing going over the final details, and we will assist you with
your itinerary. Finally, receive comprehensive driving instruction before exploring paradise in your
own tuktuk from Polonnaruwa.

Why Choose Tuktukrental.com?

Renting a tuktuk is an exciting and unique way to see the country’s gorgeous landscapes and immerse yourself in the local culture, especially around Polonnaruwa. Consider factors such as reputable reviews, official business registration, SLTDA registration, correct rental insurance, safety and maintenance standards, transparent pricing, customer support, license requirements, training, and environmental practices when selecting a rental company. You can read further about it here!

Your safety is our priority. We provide proper rental insurance coverage, regular vehicle inspections, and dedicated mechanics for maintenance. Roadside assistance is available in case of emergencies. We believe in transparent pricing and offer reasonable rental conditions without hidden fees. Our commitment to clear communication ensures exceptional customer service and quick resolution of any issues. Since 2019, we have offset all our carbon emissions, supporting sustainable tourism and contributing to a greener Sri Lanka.

Consider these aspects when selecting a tuktuk rental provider. Enjoy the freedom of the open road and immerse yourself in the splendour of Sri Lanka. Let the adventure begin from Polonnaruwa!

Things to See in Polonnaruwa

Gal Viharaya

A Buddhist temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site) at Polonnaruwa is a must-visit location that can be easily accessed by tuktuk. Moreover, it has the perfect Buddha statue hewn out of solid stone. Click here for directions to this location.

Bathing Pool

Just outside the southeast corner of the royal grounds, you can reach the magnificent bathing pool known as Kumara Pokuna in no time with a tuktuk. Furthermore, it features a lotus island in the center and two of its prevailing crocodile-mouth fountains. Click here for directions to this location.

Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu

This majestic palace of Parakramabahu, with seven stories and said to have 1000 chambers, awaits your exploration, and you can conveniently reach it by hopping on a tuktuk. In addition, click here for directions to the location.

Minneriya or Kaudulla National Parks

It is not at all difficult to go on a safari to Minneriya or Kaudella National Parks from Polonnaruwa. Moreover, you can make your journey even more exciting by embarking on a tuktuk adventure. Notably, these parks are particularly eminent for their elephant populations. Click here for directions to this location.

Nature's playful giants - Witness the heartwarming sight of elephants frolicking at Minneriya National Park
Nature's playful giants - witness the heartwarming sight of elephants frolicking at Minneriya National Park 📸 @sofimprado

Ancient Library (Pothgul Vihara)

The Potugal Vihara, located furthest south of Polonnaruwa, is a strange structure. Interestingly, it is a little, circular, hollowed dome supposed to be used as a library for storing sacred books. Consequently, hop on a tuktuk to explore this intriguing ancient library.

Taste the Local Flavours in Polonnaruwa

Rasa Bojun Gedara

Rasa Bojun Gedara is a family restaurant that offers a buffet with a great variety of delicious traditional curries. They also offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. In addition, arrive at this delightful restaurant in your tuktuk and savour the mouthwatering cuisines. For the location of the restaurant, click here.

Jaga Food

For some authentic Sri Lankan and Asian cuisines, head over to Jaga Food. Notably, experience the true flavours of Sri Lanka by arriving at Jaga Food in your tuktuk. For the location to the restaurant, click here.

Sudu Araliya Restaurant

For a diverse range of International, European, Asian, and Sri Lankan cuisine, Sudu Araliya Restaurant is the place to be. They also offer vegetarian and vegan options. Consequently, conveniently reach this restaurant in your tuktuk and indulge in their delectable dishes. For the location of the restaurant, click here.

Rajadhani Indian Restaurant

For some authentic Indian food, Rajadhani Indian Restaurant is the place to visit. They serve vegetarian and vegan food as well. Moreover, arrive at this culinary paradise in your tuktuk and treat your taste buds to the rich flavours of India. For the location of the restaurant, click here.

Discover history on wheels - Let our charming tuktuk driver take you on an enchanting journey through Polonnaruwa's ancient relics
A couple hugging each other and tuktuk and beach is on the background 📸 @annaandjulian

Hop on a tuk-tuk and embark on a fascinating journey through Polonnaruwa’s ancient city and surrounding areas.

Recharge at Comfortable Stays in Polonnaruwa

Ekho Lake House

In the heart of Polonnaruwa and overlooking the panoramic Parakrama Samudraya, Ekho Lake House is a perfect choice for a serene getaway and is easy to reach in your tuktuk. Furthermore, to check out their website for more information, click here.

Hotel Ancient Village

Located in a beautiful location, this hotel offers breathtaking views of rice fields and wildlife. Additionally, you can enjoy the scenery on the way to this amazing hotel in your own tuktuk; for the hotel’s location, click here.

Seyara Holiday Resort

The accommodation is just 2 Km from the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa. Moreover, you can conveniently explore the nearby Parakrama Samudraya Polonnaruwa Lake with your tuktuk, which is 2.3 Km away. For the location of the hotel, click here.

Kithmi Resort

Nestled down a beautiful tree-lined road, Kithmi Resort provides a tranquil and nature-filled retreat. reach this resort in your tuktuk and enjoy the road. consequently, for the location of the resort, click here.

Honey Tree Polonnaruwa

Located close to all the main attractions and the town, Honey Tree Polonnaruwa offers a convenient base for exploring the area in the tuktuk. For the location of the hotel, click here.

How to Get to Polonnaruwa from Colombo

A Train Ride to Polonnaruwa

You could take the train from Colombo Fort to Batticaloa and get off at Polonnaruwa. The journey would last for 6 hours and 25 minutes. Find the train timetable here.

A Bus Ride to Polonnaruwa

To get from Colombo to Polonnaruwa by bus, you can take a direct bus from the Colombo Central Bus Stand. The bus ride usually takes around 5-6 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions. Explore the historical treasures of Polonnaruwa with ease by taking a direct bus from Colombo.
To plan your route and check bus timetables, go to the official website of the Sri Lanka National Transport Commission (NTC).

By Taxi to Polonnaruwa

You can also arrange a private vehicle and driver to take you. This is the fastest but most expensive way to travel. It will take approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes from Colombo to Polonnaruwa.

Rent a Tuktuk and Drive to Polonnaruwa!

Travelling from Colombo to Polonnaruwa in your own tuktuk is one of the most spectacular ways to appreciate the beautiful splendour and discover Sri Lanka’s hidden gems. Renting a tuktuk provides an exciting experience, with the freedom to drive through fascinating routes and the option to pull over at any location that sparks your interest.

Head over to our online reservations system on tuktukrental.comSelect your booking dates, extras and enter your details. Continue to the payment section and enjoy riding a tuktuk in Sri Lanka.

Driving through time - Travel back in history while enjoying the scenic gravel roads of Polonnaruwa in your trusty tuktuk
Driving through time - Travel back in history while enjoying the scenic gravel roads of Polonnaruwa in your trusty tuktuk 📸 @about.nada

Frequently Asked Questions

Renting a tuktuk in Polonnaruwais a great way to explore the city at your own pace. You’ll need a local temporary driving license, which we can assist you with.

Yes, it’s safe to drive a tuktuk in Polonnaruwa. We provide a driving lesson to ensure you’re comfortable with the vehicle.

We offer customer support throughout the rental period to assist with any issues that may arise.
On your pickup day, one of our driving instructors will drive the tuktuk with your locally approved permit (licence) and the necessary documentation to your hotel, provide you with a comprehensive driving lesson and off you go, explore paradise!

Yes, you can drop-off the tuktuk in Polonnaruwa. You can check the pick-up and drop-off charges here!

Polonnaruwa Map

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