Discover the ruins of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s second ancient capital and one of Asia’s finest UNESCO World Heritage Sites – on this full-day exploration of a medieval kingdom that reached the height of its power and artistic achievement in the 12th century. Exploring the city by bicycle along its tree-shaded paths is the most rewarding and atmospheric way to move between its monuments: the Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu, the Quadrangle with its Vatadage and Thuparama image house, the Lankatilaka standing Buddha and the incomparable Gal Vihara – four colossal Buddha figures carved from a single granite face with a skill and serenity that continues to astonish visitors a thousand years after their creation. Your expert guide weaves the history of Polonnaruwa’s kings, their court intrigues, their military campaigns and their engineering achievements, including the vast irrigation system that still waters Sri Lanka’s rice fields today – into a day of living history that is both educational and moving.