Sri Lanka Route Guide · Cultural Triangle
Kandy to Polonnaruwa by Private Car and Driver
Updated 10 October 2026 · by the GoTourRide team
A common link between the hill country and the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.
Route at a glance
- From
- Kandy
- To
- Polonnaruwa
- Distance
- About 140 km
- Drive time
- 3.5 hours
- Best for
- Ancient ruins and elephant parks.
The drive
You drive north on the A9 through Matale and Dambulla, then east. The road is paved with some bends.
Best stops on the way
Matale
Aluvihare temple.
Habarana
Rest stop.
Choose your vehicle
Pick a vehicle by group size and luggage. These are average day rates across GoTourRide drivers; a one-way transfer is quoted by the driver, so request a quote for an exact price. You can also use our trip cost calculator.
| Vehicle | Passengers | Average day rate |
|---|---|---|
| Mini car | Up to 2 | About $61/day |
| Normal car | Up to 3 | About $66/day |
| SUV | Up to 3 | About $91/day |
| Large car | Up to 4 | About $75/day |
| Minivan | Up to 6 | About $103/day |
| Large van | Up to 10 | About $118/day |
| Minibus | Up to 15 | About $169/day |
Tips for this route
- Allow time for the ruins; they need at least half a day.
- Hire a bicycle in the old city.
Book a driver
Compare verified drivers on the drivers page, or ask us on WhatsApp if you would like to talk to a real person first.
Keep reading
- Golden Temple of Dambulla
- 3 week Sri Lanka itinerary
- How to hire a private driver in Sri Lanka
- Sigiriya to Kandy
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Anuradhapura
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Polonnaruwa
- All Sri Lanka driver routes
FAQs
How far is Polonnaruwa from Kandy?
About 140 km, or 3.5 hours.
Do I need a guide at the ruins?
A guide adds context, and your driver can recommend one.