Polonnaruwa

POLONNARUWA

Exploring the Medieval Capital of Sri Lanka

Home » Sri Lanka » Cultural Triangle » Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, holds immense historical significance. It served as the second capital of Sri Lanka after the decline of Anuradhapura.

This archaeological site showcases the rich history and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka, with its well-preserved ruins and monuments dating back to the 12th century. Visitors can explore ancient temples, royal palaces, and impressive irrigation systems that reflect the advanced engineering skills of that era.

Must see places in Polonnaruwa

1. The Royal Complex: A Glimpse into Monarchic Grandeur

GPS: 7.94302, 81.00123 | Constructed during the reign of King Parakramabahu I, this royal palace served as the centre of governance and administration in Polonnaruwa. Admire the architectural intricacies and envision the opulence of the past as you wander through the audience halls and chambers that once witnessed royal affairs and grand celebrations.

4. Parakrama Samudra: The Marvel of Ancient Irrigation

GPS: 7.87405, 80.96660 | Explore the engineering marvel of Parakrama Samudra, one of the largest ancient reservoirs in Sri Lanka, spanning an area of 2, 500 hectares. Constructed by King Parakramabahu I, this reservoir not only provided irrigation for agriculture but also showcased the expertise in hydraulic engineering techniques of that time. Take a leisurely walk along its bund to admire the ingenuity that guaranteed abundant harvests for the kingdom.

7. Lotus Pond

GPS: 7.97494, 81.00402 | The Nelum Pokuna, also known as the Lotus Bath, is a uniquely designed stone reservoir shaped like eight-petaled lotus blooms, featuring an intricate layout. Made from finely cut granite, this structure is a fascinating attraction for contemporary travellers. Historical records mention the creation of a lotus bath by King Parakramabahu the Great, which stands as a remarkable achievement among the many lakes he constructed.

10. Thivanka Image House

GPS: 7.97857, 81.00605 | During the reign of King Parakramabahu (1153-1186), the Thivanka Pilimage was built as an essential part of the Jethavanarama temple complex. This structure was named "Thivanka," meaning "three curves," in reference to the Buddha image inside, which was intricately contoured in three distinct places. Within the precincts of this Image House, visitors can admire a collection of paintings dating back to the Polonnaruwa Era. Remarkably, many of these paintings have been exceptionally well preserved to this day.

2. Gal Vihara: A Testament to Artistic Brilliance

GPS: 7.96616, 81.00495 | Get ready to be amazed by Gal Vihara, a rock-cut temple that houses four exquisite Buddha statues. Carved from a single granite rock, these masterpieces showcase the artistic brilliance of ancient Sri Lankan craftsmen. The serene expressions and lifelike details of the statues offer a glimpse into the spiritual devotion and artistic prowess of that era.

5. The Quadrangle: A Sanctuary of Spiritual Enlightenment

GPS: 7.94757, 81.00196 | Immerse yourself in the spiritual aura of the Quadrangle, a sacred complex housing significant religious structures. Explore the majestic Rankot Vihara (GPS: 7. 95856, 81. 00340), the iconic Kiri Vihara (GPS: 7. 96347, 81. 00360), and the historic Thuparama (GPS: 7. 94779, 81. 00094), each contributing to the city's rich Buddhist heritage.

8. King Parakramabahu’s statue

GPS: 7.92627, 80.99485 | The statue of King Parakramabahu is a prominent and revered monument situated in Polonnaruwa. Depicting King Parakramabahu the Great, a distinguished ruler from the 12th century AD Polonnaruwa period, it showcases his significant contributions to the country's architecture, irrigation systems, and cultural development. This statue stands as a testament to his legacy, symbolizing the grandeur and achievements of his reign in the region's history.

3. Lankatilaka Temple: A Majestic Religious Edifice

GPS: 7.96296, 81.00361 | Step into Lankatilaka Temple, an architectural gem that reflects the zenith of Sinhalese temple construction. Marvel at its towering walls, adorned with intricate carvings and delicate stone lacework. The serene Buddha statue within exudes a sense of tranquility, creating an atmosphere of spiritual serenity.

6. Polonnaruwa Museum: A Treasury of Artifacts and History

GPS: 7.94178, 80.99878 | Opens from 08:00 – 16:00 hrs. Before concluding your visit, make sure to head to the Polonnaruwa Museum. Here, you will find a fascinating collection of artifacts, statues, and historical exhibits awaiting your exploration. Gain deeper insights into the city's past, learn about its rulers, and appreciate the artifacts that offer a tangible connection to the ancient civilization.

9. Nissanka Latha Mandapa

GPS: 7.94753, 81.00114 | The Nissanka Latha Mandapaya is a unique structure with origins dating back to the reign of King Nissanka Malla (1187-1196), after whom it is named. Its distinctive feature lies in the exceptional stone columns, intricately carved in a style unmatched elsewhere in the country. An adjacent stone inscription indicates that this building served as the dedicated space where King Nissanka Malla would listen to resonant Pirith recitations, a practice involving the chanting of sacred Buddhist scriptures.