Solo Female Travel in Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa, nestled in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, is a city of ancient beauty and rich historic significance. It's renowned as one of the cleanest and more beautiful cities in the country and is considered Sri Lanka's second-most ancient kingdom. Polonnaruwa, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a testament to the architectural and engineering prowess of the medieval Sri Lankans. The city's iconic ruins, including stunning Buddha statues, intricate carvings, and majestic structures like the royal palace complex and the Quadrangle, attract a significant number of history enthusiasts and tourists from around the world. Besides its cultural wealth, Polonnaruwa also offers easy access to nature, being close to beautiful parks, like the Minneriya National Park, making it a must-visit destination for globetrotters seeking a blend of historical exploration and nature-based adventures.

4 /5

Based on our research

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Safety:Safe

Polonnaruwa generally espouses a welcoming and safe environment for solo female travelers. Like any other tourist destination, it's important to maintain a level of personal vigilance and awareness of your surroundings. The majority of local residents are friendly and helpful towards foreigners. Remember to stay in public, well-lit areas after dark, and keep your personal belongings secure.

Transport:Easy

Polonnaruwa is fairly manageable for solo female travelers. A network of well-marked trails and signposts eases navigation. While public transport is available, renting a bicycle or walking is popular among tourists, providing flexibility and opportunity to explore at your own pace. However, hot weather sometimes presents minor challenges.

Things to do:Interesting

Polonnaruwa presents a fascinating insight into Sri Lanka's rich history. As one of the ancient kingdoms, it hosts impressive archaeological treasures such as the Royal Palace, the Quadrangle and Gal Vihara. You can explore these sites easily by renting a bike, making it an active and educational experience. However, apart from historical exploration, other activities such as natural excursions or unique cultural experiences might be limited.

Food:Above average

Polonnaruwa offers a wide array of delectable Sri Lankan cuisine. From fresh fruit stalls to bustling street food markets, the city is a paradise for food lovers. Vegetarian, vegan, and non-vegetarian options are available. The city also hosts local delicacies like Pol Sambol and Kottu, which are must-try dishes. However, the reasons I did not rate it a 5 are because of the occasional setback in finding diverse international cuisine and sometimes the hygiene standards fall a bit short.

Budget:Affordable

Polonnaruwa is moderately budget-friendly, especially for the solo female traveler. The cost of living is relatively low when compared to other tourist sites around the world, with affordable lodging, food, and transport options. The city's cultural and historical sites have nominal entrance fees. However, costs can escalate if opting for high-end accommodation or dining experiences.

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