Polonnaruwa Ancient City
Explore Sri Lanka's Second Ancient Capital
Explore Sri Lanka's Second Ancient Capital
Polonnaruwa remains one of Sri Lanka's most revered historical kingdoms, second in antiquity to its peers. Once the capital city of King Vijayabahu l, who triumphed over invading forces and restored unity to the land in 1070, the ancient city of Polonnaruwa vouches for the ingenuity of its first rulers. With admirable planning, the archeological remains of this great kingdom are a depiction of its discipline and might, still captivating visitors to this day.
Polonnaruwa is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered, divided into four separate areas. Your journey begins at the palace and bath followed by a visit to the three grand temples housing sacred tooth relics. Next, you can gaze at the impressive stupas before your journey comes to an end at the far western end of the complex, where you will uncover one of the most stunning Buddha rock carvings in Sri Lanka. Whether you choose to wander on foot or pedal a bike or take a leisurely drive between each stop, exploring this ancient city steeped in history will be a captivating experience.
The fall of Anuradhapura in 993 AD brought about the rise of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom which lasted for centuries as the capital of the island- The kingdom was ruled by both the South Indian Cholas and the Sinhalese who perceived Polonnaruwa to be better protected naturally from invasions by the south-eastern and Ruhunu Kingdoms that existed at the time.
Polonnaruwa reached its magnificence during the rule of King Parakramabahu I (12th century AD) who developed the local infrastructure and built a massive water tank called the "Parakrama Samudraya- which translates to 'The Sea of Parakrama". The stone palace built for the royal family was massive, with a total of 50 rooms and adorned with baroque stone carvings that depict the rich culture of the time. Vestiges of this splendid structure can be seen today, the Vatadage being the most iconic of them, with four entrances. It is said to have housed the Sacred Tooth Relic during the Polonnaruwa Kingdom period.
A visit to this city will lead you to a treasure trove of Sri Lan kan history with ruins of the ancient palace and well-preserved Buddhist stupas making a bygone era feel tangible in the present.
Top sights in Polonnaruwa
Ancient Sinhalese rock temple with 4 Buddha statues, including 2 seated, 1 standing & 1 reclining.
Ancient Buddhist monument features intricate stone carvings, statues & a small stupa.
Remains of a historic, mound-shaped stupa constructed of brick in the late 12th century.
