Step back over two thousand years into Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals on this full-day tour of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, or both if time allows. Explore vast dagobas, sacred bodhi trees, monastery ruins and, in Polonnaruwa, the Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddha statues, accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide. Much of the exploration is done on foot or by bicycle across the flat, shaded grounds of the ancient cities, making it accessible even in the heat; a stop for a traditional rice-and-curry lunch rounds out the day.
Best starting point: Habarana, Sigiriya or Anuradhapura