Polonnaruwa’s Primates

An early morning arrival at the entrance to ancient Polonnaruwa for a meeting with its clusters of curious primates and their devoted researchers. Medieval Polonnaruwa is home to thriving populations of torque macaques, grey langurs and if you cast your gaze upwards, higher-dwelling purple-faced leaf eaters. Their numbers have not always been so prolific and like many other countries, reduction of habitat meant monkey numbers were in decline. Luckily, in stepped the Smithsonian Research Center, whose field researchers will guide you around the set of Disney’s Monkey Kingdom. Observe social interactions and behaviours of local troops as you stroll around a small part of this area, learning of the challenges of monkey conservation. Continue to explore the ruins before it gets too hot!

  • Meet the ancient city’s primate populations in Polonnaruwa.
  • Study the inhabitants of “Monkey Kingdom” with a primate researcher.
  • Observe the behaviour of purple-faced leaf monkeys, toque macaques and grey langurs.

What's Included ?

Walk and entry to Polonnaruwa.

Cool clothing, hat, passport.

Entrance fee

When you arrive early in the morning at the entrance to historic Polonnaruwa, you are met by groups of curious primates and their devoted researchers. Thanks to conservation efforts, torque macaques, purple-faced leaf eaters, and grey langurs have prospered in mediaeval Polonnaruwa. Explore the world of these amazing animals under the guidance of field experts from the Smithsonian Research Centre. Take note of their social connections and behaviours in an environment that is evocative of Disney’s Monkey Kingdom. Explore a small portion of this research area and gain insights into the difficulties associated with monkey conservation. Then, before the sun goes down, carry on exploring the historic ruins of Polonnaruwa while taking in the breathtaking architecture and rich historical background.

What is the "Polonnaruwa’s Primates" experience?

Visitors can explore the historic city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka, and get up close and personal with its fascinating primate residents with the “Polonnaruwa’s Primates” experience. On hosted excursions of the neighbouring wildlife areas and archaeological ruins, participants can watch and learn about the variety of monkey species that live on this ancient site.

With the assistance of informed advisers who share insights into the ancient city of Polonnaruwa’s rich history and cultural significance, participants can gain an immersive experience. While seeing the beautiful natural environs and archaeological ruins, travellers can come across a variety of primate species, such as langurs and monkeys.

Because it blends cultural discovery with wildlife interactions, the “Polonnaruwa’s Primates” experience is special and unique, giving guests a comprehensive look into the rich biodiversity and historical legacy of Polonnaruwa. Through the behaviour and habitat of primates in their natural habitat, visitors can observe how history and nature are interwoven through this immersive experience.

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