Should I visit Polonnaruwa or Anuradhapura if I only have time for one ancient city.
I have only one day for ancient ruins in the cultural triangle. Which of the two old capital cities offers the better experience for a first time visitor.
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2 Answers from travellers
For first time visitors with only one day Polonnaruwa is the clear winner. The ruins are more compact and easier to explore in just half a day. The carvings and architectural details are remarkably well preserved. The famous Gal Vihara rock cut Buddha statues alone are worth the entire trip. The site is also significantly less spread out than Anuradhapura.
Anuradhapura is older and considered more sacred by Buddhists due to the ancient Sri Maha Bodhi tree which is over two thousand years old. However the ruins are spread across a vast area making it very difficult to fully appreciate in a single day. Choose Anuradhapura only if you have specific religious interest or two full days available.
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