Discover the Majestic Summer Palace of King Parakramabahu I
Experience the grandeur of Sri Lanka's royal heritage at the Summer Palace of King Parakramabahu I, an architectural marvel in Polonnaruwa.
Explore the enchanting ruins of the Summer Palace of King Parakramabahu I in Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases stunning ancient architecture and rich history. Immerse yourself in the remnants of a once-grand royal residence, where you can wander through beautifully preserved structures, witness intricate carvings, and appreciate the artistry of ancient Sri Lankan civilization.
A brief summary to Summer Palace of king Parakramabahu I (සීත මාළිගාව)
- XX2W+44R, Polonnaruwa, LK
- +94272222222
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy better lighting for photographs.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on uneven surfaces while exploring the ruins.
- Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the palace.
- Bring water and snacks, as amenities may be limited in the immediate area.
- Check for any local events or festivals that may coincide with your visit for a richer cultural experience.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from the center of Polonnaruwa. Head east on Main Street (Galle Road) towards the Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum. Continue straight for about 2 kilometers until you reach the turn-off for the Summer Palace, which is marked by a sign. Turn left onto the access road, and you will see the entrance to the Summer Palace of King Parakramabahu I (සීත මාළිගාව) on your right. Parking is available near the entrance but be aware that a small fee may be charged for parking.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Summer Palace via public transportation, take a local bus heading towards the Polonnaruwa bus station. From the bus station, you can either walk or take a tuk-tuk to the Summer Palace. If walking, head east on Main Street towards the Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum, then follow the directions mentioned for car travel. A tuk-tuk ride from the bus station will cost around LKR 200-300 and will take approximately 10 minutes to reach the Summer Palace.
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Tuk-tuk
If you prefer a more direct route, hire a tuk-tuk from anywhere in Polonnaruwa. You can ask the driver to take you to the Summer Palace of King Parakramabahu I (සීත මාළිගාව). Ensure to negotiate the fare beforehand; it should cost around LKR 300-500 depending on your starting point. The journey will typically take about 10-15 minutes.
Discover more about Summer Palace of king Parakramabahu I (සීත මාළිගාව)
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Red Rose Restaurant
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Hotel Darshana & Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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