Polonnaruwa

The Medieval Capital of Sri Lanka

Polonnaruwa, the medieval capital of Sri Lanka, is a city rich in history and archaeological treasures. Located in the North Central Province, Polonnaruwa is renowned for its well-preserved ruins of ancient palaces, temples, and statues. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Polonnaruwa offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s medieval past and its significance in Buddhist history.

Things to Do

Explore the Royal Palace Complex

Historical Significance: The Royal Palace Complex, built by King Parakramabahu I, is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Polonnaruwa. The complex includes the remains of the royal palace, audience hall, and other administrative buildings.
Architectural Ruins: Wander through the ruins and imagine the grandeur of the palace in its heyday. The intricately carved stone pillars and walls offer a glimpse into the architectural prowess of the ancient kingdom.

Visit the Quadrangle (Dalada Maluwa)

Sacred Area: The Quadrangle is a sacred area that houses several important religious buildings, including the Vatadage, Thuparama, and Atadage. The Vatadage, a circular relic house, is particularly notable for its beautiful stone carvings and Buddha statues.
Historical Monuments: Explore the various monuments within the Quadrangle, each with its own unique architectural features and historical significance.

Discover the Gal Vihara

Rock Temple: The Gal Vihara is a rock temple famous for its four large statues of Buddha carved into a single granite rock face. The statues, which include a reclining Buddha, a seated Buddha, and two standing Buddhas, are considered masterpieces of ancient Sinhalese art.
Spiritual Atmosphere: The serene and peaceful surroundings of the Gal Vihara make it a perfect spot for meditation and contemplation.

Visit the Parakrama Samudra

Ancient Reservoir: The Parakrama Samudra, also known as the Sea of Parakrama, is a massive man-made reservoir built by King Parakramabahu I. The reservoir is an impressive example of ancient hydraulic engineering.
Scenic Views: Take a walk along the banks of the reservoir, enjoying the scenic views and the tranquil atmosphere. The reservoir is also a popular spot for bird watching.

Explore the Rankoth Vehera

Largest Stupa: The Rankoth Vehera is the largest stupa in Polonnaruwa, built by King Nissanka Malla. The stupa’s massive size and well-preserved structure make it a significant landmark in the ancient city.
Spiritual Significance: The stupa is a place of worship and meditation. Visitors can walk around the stupa and observe the rituals and offerings made by devotees.

Visit the Lankatilaka Vihara

Impressive Temple: The Lankatilaka Vihara is an impressive brick temple built by King Parakramabahu I. The temple features a large standing statue of Buddha and towering walls adorned with intricate carvings.
Architectural Beauty: The temple’s grand entrance and ornate decorations make it a must-visit site for those interested in ancient architecture.

Discover the Tivanka Image House

Buddha Statue: The Tivanka Image House is a temple known for its large statue of Buddha, which is bent in three places (tivanka). The temple’s walls are adorned with beautiful frescoes depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology.
Artistic Heritage: The well-preserved frescoes and intricate carvings make the Tivanka Image House a valuable site for understanding the artistic heritage of Polonnaruwa.

Visit the Pabalu Vehera

Unique Stupa: The Pabalu Vehera is a unique stupa with a square-shaped structure. The stupa is believed to have been built by one of King Parakramabahu’s queens.
Historical Significance: Explore the stupa and its surroundings, which include several smaller stupas and ancient ruins.

Explore the Nissanka Latha Mandapaya

Lotus Pavilion: The Nissanka Latha Mandapaya is a stone pavilion with beautifully carved stone pillars that resemble lotus stems. The pavilion was used by King Nissanka Malla for listening to religious discourses.
Architectural Marvel: The intricate carvings and unique design of the pavilion make it a noteworthy architectural marvel.

Visit the Shiva Devale No. 2

Hindu Temple: The Shiva Devale No. 2 is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Polonnaruwa, dating back to the Chola period. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features a well-preserved lingam and other Hindu deities.
Cultural Heritage: The temple provides insight into the cultural and religious diversity of ancient Polonnaruwa.

Discover the Lotus Pond (Nelum Pokuna)

Ancient Bath: The Lotus Pond is an ancient bathing pond shaped like a lotus flower. The pond’s intricate design and well-preserved structure make it a fascinating site to explore.
Architectural Beauty: The pond is a testament to the advanced engineering and artistic skills of the ancient Sinhalese.

Visit the Polonnaruwa Museum

Cultural Artifacts: The Polonnaruwa Museum houses a collection of artifacts from the ancient city, including statues, pottery, coins, and inscriptions. The museum provides valuable insights into the history and culture of Polonnaruwa.
Educational Displays: The museum’s informative displays and interactive exhibits make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Explore the Pothgul Vihara

Monastic Library: The Pothgul Vihara is believed to have been an ancient monastic library and meditation center. The site includes the remains of a large circular structure and several smaller buildings.
Historical Significance: The vihara provides insight into the educational and religious practices of ancient Polonnaruwa.

Visit the Sathmahal Prasada

Unique Structure: The Sathmahal Prasada is a unique seven-story structure believed to have been a stupa or a royal palace. The building’s pyramid-like design and intricate carvings make it a fascinating site to explore.
Architectural Heritage: The prasada is a testament to the architectural innovation of the ancient Sinhalese.

Discover the Medirigiriya Vatadage

Circular Relic House: The Medirigiriya Vatadage is an ancient circular relic house located near Polonnaruwa. The structure features beautifully carved stone pillars and a central stupa.
Peaceful Setting: The vatadage is set amidst lush greenery, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere for meditation and reflection.

Visit the Thivanka Pilimage

Ancient Image House: The Thivanka Pilimage is an ancient image house known for its large statue of Buddha and well-preserved frescoes. The frescoes depict scenes from the Jataka tales and other Buddhist stories.
Artistic Significance: The intricate frescoes and carvings make the Thivanka Pilimage a valuable site for understanding the artistic heritage of Polonnaruwa.

Explore the Siva Devale No. 1

Oldest Hindu Temple: The Siva Devale No. 1 is the oldest Hindu temple in Polonnaruwa, dating back to the 10th century. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and features a well-preserved lingam and other Hindu deities.
Cultural Diversity: The temple provides insight into the cultural and religious diversity of ancient Polonnaruwa.

Visit the Alahana Pirivena

Monastic Complex: The Alahana Pirivena is a large monastic complex built by King Parakramabahu I. The complex includes several stupas, image houses, and meditation halls.
Spiritual Atmosphere: The tranquil surroundings and ancient ruins make the Alahana Pirivena a perfect spot for meditation and contemplation.

Discover the Kiri Vihara

White Stupa: The Kiri Vihara is a large white stupa built by King Parakramabahu I. The stupa’s well-preserved structure and peaceful surroundings make it a significant landmark in Polonnaruwa.
Spiritual Significance: The stupa is a place of worship and meditation. Visitors can walk around the stupa and observe the rituals and offerings made by devotees.

Explore the Gal Potha (Stone Book)

Ancient Inscription: The Gal Potha, or Stone Book, is a large stone slab inscribed with ancient text. The inscription provides valuable information about the reign of King Nissanka Malla and the history of Polonnaruwa.
Historical Artifact: The stone book is a testament to the literary and scholarly achievements of ancient Polonnaruwa.

Practical Tips for Visiting Polonnaruwa

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Polonnaruwa is during the dry season, from April to September, when the weather is most favorable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Transportation: Polonnaruwa is accessible by road and rail. The city is well-connected to major cities like Colombo and Kandy.
Accommodation: Polonnaruwa offers a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Staying near the ancient city provides easy access to the historical sites.

Conclusion

Polonnaruwa is a destination that offers a perfect blend of history, spirituality, and culture. Whether you’re exploring ancient palaces, visiting sacred temples, or wandering through archaeological ruins, Polonnaruwa promises a memorable and enriching travel experience. Plan your visit to this medieval capital of Sri Lanka and discover the many treasures of the island’s rich cultural heritage.