Galaha to Polonnaruwa

Galah to Polonnaruwa: Essential Travel Guide

Language

The official languages of Sri Lanka are Sinhala and Tamil. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, including Polonnaruwa.

Currency

The official currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). It is recommended to exchange your currency before arriving in Sri Lanka, or you can use ATMs to withdraw cash.

Distance

The distance between Galah and Polonnaruwa is approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles).

How to Reach

There are several ways to get from Galah to Polonnaruwa:

• By Bus: The most economical option is to take a bus from Galah to Polonnaruwa. Buses depart regularly from the Galah bus station and take around 3-4 hours.
• By Train: There is no direct train service from Galah to Polonnaruwa. You can take a train from Galah to Anuradhapura and then transfer to a bus or taxi to Polonnaruwa.
• By Taxi: The most convenient but expensive option is to hire a taxi from Galah to Polonnaruwa. The journey takes around 2-3 hours.

Expenses

The cost of traveling from Galah to Polonnaruwa will vary depending on the mode of transport and your budget. Here is an approximate breakdown of expenses:

• Bus: LKR 200-300
• Train: LKR 100-200
• Taxi: LKR 5,000-7,000

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Polonnaruwa is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and there is less rainfall.

What to Eat

Polonnaruwa offers a variety of delicious Sri Lankan cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include:

• Kottu: A stir-fried dish made with chopped roti, vegetables, and spices.
• Hoppers: Bowl-shaped pancakes made with fermented rice flour.
• Lamprais: A traditional Sri Lankan dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables wrapped in a banana leaf.

Where to Go

Polonnaruwa is home to several ancient ruins and historical sites, including:

• Polonnaruwa Vatadage: A circular relic house built in the 12th century.
• Gal Vihara: A group of four rock-cut Buddha statues.
• Lankatilaka Vihara: A 13th-century temple with a massive reclining Buddha statue.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about traveling from Galah to Polonnaruwa:

Is it safe to travel from Galah to Polonnaruwa?

Yes, it is generally safe to travel from Galah to Polonnaruwa. However, it is always advisable to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Can I rent a car to drive from Galah to Polonnaruwa?

Yes, you can rent a car from Galah and drive to Polonnaruwa. However, it is important to note that driving in Sri Lanka can be challenging due to heavy traffic and poor road conditions.

Are there any guided tours available from Galah to Polonnaruwa?

Yes, there are several guided tours available from Galah to Polonnaruwa. You can book a tour through your hotel or a local tour operator.

Conclusion

Traveling from Galah to Polonnaruwa is a rewarding experience that allows you to explore the rich history and culture of Sri Lanka. By following the tips and information provided in this guide, you can plan a smooth and enjoyable journey.