Sri Lanka Itineraries · By interest
Ancient cities and history in Sri Lanka
Updated 10 October 2026 · by the GoTourRide team
Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya are the main sites of ancient Sri Lanka. The sites are spread out, so a car saves a lot of time and heat.
Which site first
Start with Sigiriya and Dambulla, then add Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura if you have more time.
Best time of day
Early morning and late afternoon are cooler. Midday is best spent in the shade or on the road.
Routes for this trip
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Anuradhapura (200 km, 4 to 4.5 hours)
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Polonnaruwa (230 km, 5 hours)
- Sigiriya to Anuradhapura (100 km, 2 hours)
- Sigiriya to Polonnaruwa (60 km, 1.5 hours)
- Kandy to Polonnaruwa (140 km, 3.5 hours)
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Dambulla (150 km, 3.5 to 4 hours)
Keep reading
- Golden Temple of Dambulla
- 3 week Sri Lanka itinerary
- How to hire a private driver in Sri Lanka
- Trip cost calculator
- Find a private driver
More itinerary ideas
Wildlife · Beaches · Culture · Hiking · Honeymoon
By length · By month · By area
FAQs
How many days for the ancient cities?
Allow a day each for Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, and one for Sigiriya and Dambulla.
Do I need a guide?
A guide adds context, and your driver can recommend one.