Pollonnaruwa

An ancient royal city rich in history and ruins, Polonnaruwa is known for its well-preserved temples, stone carvings, royal palaces, and tranquil archaeological landscapes

It is where ancient Sri Lanka established its kingdom after the fall of Anuradhapura. The kingdom lasted from the 10th century to the 13th century. This archaeological city is a treasure trove of extraordinary stone monuments from its heyday. As it became the ruling kingdom of both Sinhala kings and Chola invaders, the city has a wealth of Brahmanic monuments. Polonnaruwa temple ruins, which are in hundreds, are scattered in and around the archaeological park. The area also features enormous reservoirs and water tanks built by the kings. It is one of the largest paddy cultivators in the country. Its UNESCO World Heritage Site status is a testimony to its rich and colourful history.

Hidden Gems

Pothgula Vihare is a dagoba-like building thought to have been used to store sacred books.
Royal Palace complex has the palace ruins of Parakramabahu I, including Audience Hall.
Shiva Devalaya 2 is a 10th Century Hindu temple, the oldest, constructed by Cholas.
Gal Potha is the longest stone inscription in Sri Lanka and resembles a palm manuscript.
The Archaeological Museum showcases artifacts and replicas of original structures.
King’s Council Chamber has each minister’s name inscribed on the stone pillars.

Best Times to Visit

Polonnaruwa is a year-round destination. October to December is the rainy season.

Weather

Top Attractions

Known to be Sri Lanka’s best-preserved Vatadage, it is a circular relic house located in the Quadrangle, which has the most concentrated monuments.

Vatadage

It is the largest Polonnaruwa stupa and the fourth largest on the island. Constructed by King Nissankamalla in the 12th Century, it’s 170m tall.

Rankoth Vehera

Famous for its unique Buddha statue, it contains the only surviving Polonnaruwa murals. These are some of the best frescoes of Buddha’s past lives.

Thivanka Image House

The structure built by King Nissankamalla consists of a latticed stone fence surrounding a small dagoba. Lotus-shaped stone pillars circle the dagoba.

Nissanka Latha Mandapaya

t is one of the most distinctive places to visit in Polonnaruwa. This ziggurat-style structure has six diminishing storeys shaped like a stepped pyramid.

Sathmahal Prasada

A remarkable rock-cut temple complex carved from a single granite cliff, Gal Vihara is known for its serene Buddha statues, exquisite craftsmanship, and timeless spiritual atmosphere