Poonnaruwa
The Medieval Kingdom
Polonnaruwa, the second ancient capital of Sri Lanka (10th – 13th century AD), is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most well-preserved archaeological cities in the country. Known for its grand palaces, ancient temples, massive Buddha statues, and advanced irrigation systems, Polonnaruwa is a must-visit destination for history lovers, photographers, and cultural explorers
Why Visit Polonnaruwa?
🏛️ 1. The Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu
✔ A massive palace complex with seven stories and 1,000 rooms (as ancient records describe).
✔ Built by King Parakramabahu I (1153-1186 AD), one of Sri Lanka’s greatest rulers.
✔ Even today, the remaining walls and stone foundations showcase its past grandeur.
🙏 2. Gal Vihara – The Masterpiece of Sri Lankan Sculpture
✔ Features four massive Buddha statues beautifully carved into a single granite rock.
✔ The Reclining Buddha (14 meters long) is one of the finest examples of Sri Lankan rock carvings.
✔ A place of deep spiritual and artistic significance.
🛕 3. Vatadage – The Circular Relic House
✔ A stunning ancient Buddhist shrine with intricately carved stone pillars.
✔ Thought to have housed the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha during the Polonnaruwa period.
✔ The design includes four seated Buddha statues facing four directions.
🌊 4. Parakrama Samudraya – The "Sea of Parakrama"
✔ A massive man-made reservoir covering 2,500 hectares, built by King Parakramabahu I.
✔ Still provides water for irrigation and farming today.
✔ A stunning spot for sunsets and bird watching.
🕍 5. Lankatilaka Temple – The Grand Image House
✔ A magnificent brick temple with towering walls (originally over 17 meters high).
✔ Inside stands a huge 13-meter-tall standing Buddha statue.
✔ The outer walls are adorned with intricate carvings and stone inscriptions.
⛩️ 6. Rankoth Vehera – The Largest Stupa in Polonnaruwa
✔ A huge 55-meter-tall stupa, built in the style of Anuradhapura’s Ruwanwelisaya.
✔ Still an active Buddhist pilgrimage site.
✔ Surrounded by beautiful ruins of meditation halls and shrines.
🗺️ Best Things to Do in Polonnaruwa
✔ Explore the Royal Palace & Audience Hall 🏰
✔ Visit Gal Vihara to admire the magnificent Buddha statues 🙏
✔ Walk through the Vatadage, an ancient circular relic shrine ⛩️
✔ See the Lankatilaka Temple’s towering Buddha statue 🛕
✔ Enjoy the scenic Parakrama Samudraya reservoir 🌊
Best Time to Visit
📅 Best Time to Visit Polonnaruwa
☀️ December – April: Dry season with pleasant weather for exploring ruins.
🌦️ May – September: Green landscapes after the rains, but can be humid.
🌄 Morning (7 AM – 10 AM) or late afternoon (3 PM – 5 PM) for cooler temperatures & great photography.