Places to visit in Polonnaruwa
Located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, Polonnaruwa is an ancient city that was once the capital of the island nation. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors from all over the world who are eager to explore its rich history and cultural heritage. The city was founded in the 11th century AD and served as the capital of Sri Lanka for over two centuries. During this time, it was home to many kings who left behind a rich legacy of art, architecture, and culture. Today, visitors can explore the remains of this fascinating civilization, including the impressive ruins of the Royal Palace, the Gal Vihara rock temple, and the Quadrangle complex of buildings. For those who enjoy exploring history and culture, a trip to Polonnaruwa is an absolute must. It is easy to reach from Colombo, with a distance of approximately 220 kilometres. Visitors can reach the city by car or public transportation, making it a convenient day trip or weekend getaway destination. With so many places to visit in Polonnaruwa, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience as you journey back in time and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this remarkable city.
1. King Parakramabahu Palace
The King Parakramabahu Palace was built in the 12th century AD and is believed to have had around 1,000 chambers, spread across seven stories. It was a unique palace, as it was shared by the great King Parakramabahu, his ministers, generals, and servants. This palace was a testament to the architectural craftsmanship of the ancient kingdom and the prosperity of the great King Parakramabahu. Sadly, the palace was subjected to constant Chola invasions in the 14th century, which forced the kingdom to shift to the region of Ruhuna in the south of the island. This resulted in the magnificent palace being plundered and eventually razed to the ground, never to be rebuilt again. Today, visitors can only see parts of the brick walls and ruins of elegant sculptures that adorned the palace. However, the entrance walls still stand and offer an insight into the palace’s grandeur during its heyday. As you explore the complex, you will come across intriguing structures that narrate the stories of the ancient kingdom, rich in culture, art, and engineering ingenuity. The King Parakramabahu Palace is a must-see attraction among the places to visit in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, known for its impressive architectural design and historical significance.
2. Vatadage
This ancient structure dates back to the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa and is believed to have been built to hold the Relic of the tooth of the Buddha or the alms bowl used by the Buddha. Its importance and significance at the time cannot be overstated, and today it remains one of the best-preserved examples of a vatadage in the country. The structure consists of two stone platforms decorated with intricate stone carvings, with the lower platform entered through a single entrance facing the north. The second platform can be accessed through four doorways facing the four cardinal points. The upper platform, surrounded by a brick wall, contains the stupa, with four Buddha statues seated around it, each facing one of the entrances. The entire structure is adorned with exquisite stone carvings, with some considered to be the best examples of such architectural features, including the sandakada pahanas. Although some archaeologists have suggested that the Polonnaruwa Vatadage also had a wooden roof, this theory is still disputed. Anyway, Polonnaruwa Vatadage is a must-visit attraction among the places to visit in Polonnaruwa, offering a glimpse into the ancient Sri Lankan architectural marvels and religious practice.
3. Gal Viharaya
Gal Vihara is one of the top places to visit in Polonnaruwa, offering visitors a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. It is a Buddhist temple, which dates back to the 12th century. This historical and religious site is renowned for its exquisite rock-cut Buddha statues, which are considered to be some of the finest examples of ancient Sinhalese sculptures. The temple complex includes four Buddha statues, each carved out of a single granite rock. The largest of these measures an impressive 46 feet in length, and depicts Buddha in the seated position, with his hands resting on his lap in a gesture of meditation. The second statue, which is also seated, measures 23 feet in length, while the third statue, which is in a standing position, is 20 feet tall. The fourth and final statue, which is also standing, is just under 16 feet tall. Each of these statues is a masterpiece of ancient craftsmanship, and they are still in remarkably good condition, despite being exposed to the elements for over 800 years. The attention to detail in the carvings is truly impressive, with intricate designs and patterns adorning the Buddha’s robes and the surrounding rocks.
4. Lotus Pond
Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Sri Lanka, is home to numerous ancient ruins and structures that attract tourists from all over the world. One such hidden gem that visitors must not miss is the Lotus Pond, also known as the Nelum Pokuna. The Lotus Pond is a small stone bath that is unique in its design. It is built in tiers of eight-petalled lotuses in descending form, creating a stunning visual spectacle. The bath’s fine-cut granite is in great formation and is a true treat for today’s tourists to view. The neighbouring gardens and old blossoming trees only add to its beauty. The Lotus Pond was believed to have been constructed by King Parakramabahu the Great, and it is believed to have been used as a bath for monks belonging to the Jetavana Vihara. The artistic conception of the stone bath is worthy of all praise, as described by the Archaeological Commissioner in his annual report for 1990. The Lotus Pond is one of the most mesmerizing places to visit in Polonnaruwa, where visitors can admire its unique design and stunning surroundings.
5. Kiri Vihara
Kiri Vihara is one of the top places to visit in Polonnaruwa, as it is an architectural marvel and of immense religious significance. This remarkable site is a must-see for anyone visiting the area, as it boasts an impressive 80-feet-tall stupa that is the second largest in Polonnaruwa ancient city. Originally constructed in the 11th century AD by Queen Subhadra, Kiri Vihara was initially known as Rupavathi Chaitya. However, its name was later changed to Kiri Vihara, meaning ‘white stupa’, due to its beautiful limewashed coating. This breathtaking stupa is located within the Alahana complex, which is known for its training centre for monks and a hospital. Visiting Kiri Vihara is an unforgettable experience, as the stupa’s straightforward and essential design is a testament to its architectural marvel. It has withstood natural disasters and thefts, and its simple beauty and peaceful aura make it a perfect place to meditate and reflect. While visiting this sacred site, it’s essential to remember that it holds immense religious significance for the locals. Visitors are expected to dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees. Additionally, walking around the site with shoes on is not permitted, so visitors are encouraged to wear socks as the land can become too hot to walk barefoot.
6. Lankathilaka Image House
Lankathilaka Image House was built during the reign of King Parakramabahu, between 1153 and 1186, and is known for its unique design and stunning architecture. One of the most striking features of the temple is its monolithic Buddha image house, which is entirely made of bricks and covered with intricate carvings and designs. The Buddha statue inside the temple is also made of clay bricks and is an impressive 41 feet tall, although the portion above the shoulder has unfortunately been destroyed over time. The temple was originally believed to have had five stories, but only the ground floor remains today. The stairways inside the temple are a unique design, with each step being only about 4 inches wide and one foot tall. They start from the Buddha statue and go up towards the entrance end, but the only practical way to climb them is sideways, with your back to the walls. This design was used to ensure that climbers would never turn their backs towards the Buddha, as it is considered disrespectful. If you’re looking for a unique and historically rich experience, the Lankathilaka Image House is a must-visit among the places to visit in Polonnaruwa.
7. Parakramabahu statue
The Parakramabahu statue is one of the most impressive places to visit in Polonnaruwa, depicting the great king who ruled the country during the 12th century. This stone masterpiece is located near the Pothgul Vehera, a historic monastery that was once a library. The statue is believed to have been built during the reign of Parakramabahu I, one of the greatest rulers of ancient Sri Lanka who is known for his extraordinary feats of engineering and irrigation. The sculpture itself stands at an impressive 11-foot-2-inches and is carved in high relief on a large boulder, showcasing the exquisite skill of the craftsmen who created it. Despite much debate over the identity of the figure depicted in the statue, it is widely accepted to be a representation of King Parakramabahu I himself. The statue’s face bears a grave expression, with half-closed eyes, a long beard, and a high forehead. The figure holds an object in his hands, which has been speculated to be either an ola book or a yoke of kingship. The location of the statue is equally impressive, as it is situated near the eastern bank of the Parakrama Samudra reservoir, which was built by Parakramabahu I himself.
8. Nissanka Latha Mandapaya
The Nissanka Latha Mandapaya is a fascinating ancient structure located in the historic city of Polonnaruwa. This unique building is a pillared structure that is open on all sides, providing shelter from the sun with a roof. It was built by King Nissanka Malla in the late 12th century and is named after him. The Mandapaya is a raised stone platform surrounded by a low stone wall and eight granite columns arranged in two rows, with four columns in each row. These columns are a unique feature of the structure, as they are curved in three places and elaborately carved to resemble the stem of a lotus flower, with a blossoming lotus bud as their crown. At the centre of the platform is a small stupa, which is also made of stone and has a decorated base. The Mandapaya was presumably used by King Nissanka Malla to listen to pirith, which is the chanting of Buddhist scriptures. The structure is an excellent example of ancient Sri Lankan architecture and is considered one of the best. It is a testament to the skilled craftsmanship and architectural ingenuity of the time. If you’re looking for places to visit in Polonnaruwa, don’t miss the fascinating Nissanka Latha Mandapaya.
9. Parakrama Samudraya
Parakrama Samudraya is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Polonnaruwa, where visitors can admire the beauty of an ancient reservoir and learn about the rich history of the region. Built-in the 12th century during the reign of King Parakramabahu the Great, it is one of the largest and most impressive reservoirs of its kind in the country. Covering an area of over 2500 hectares, the reservoir was constructed to provide irrigation water for the agricultural lands in the area. Today, Parakrama Samudraya is not only an important source of irrigation but also a popular tourist destination. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking scenery and stunning views of the reservoir from various viewpoints. The calm and serene atmosphere of the reservoir is perfect for a relaxing boat ride, which allows visitors to explore the reservoir and its surroundings. It is also an excellent place for fishing enthusiasts who can try their luck in the waters of the reservoir. One of the most fascinating aspects of Parakrama Samudraya is its ancient engineering. The reservoir was built using a complex system of bunds, or earthen dams, which are still intact today. The ingenuity and skill of the ancient engineers who designed and constructed the reservoir are truly impressive.
10. Rankoth Viharaya
Rankoth Viharaya is a magnificent Buddhist temple located in Polonnaruwa. Built-in the 11th century during the Polonnaruwa period, it is considered one of the most impressive examples of ancient Sinhalese architecture. The temple’s name is derived from the distinctive gold-plated chetiya, or stupa, which rises high above the surrounding landscape. Visitors to Rankoth Viharaya will be impressed by the temple’s stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and ancient statues. The temple’s serene atmosphere provides a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The temple’s inner sanctum houses a beautiful Buddha statue, which is believed to be one of the finest examples of ancient Buddhist art in Sri Lanka. One of the most impressive features of Rankoth Viharaya is the stunning frescoes that adorn the temple’s walls. These vibrant paintings depict scenes from the Jataka tales, which are stories about the previous lives of the Buddha. The frescoes provide visitors with a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka and are a testament to the artistic skills of ancient Sinhalese craftsmen. Rankoth Viharaya is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore an ancient Buddhist temple and admire its impressive architecture and artwork.
11. Shiva Devale No 2
Shiva Devale No 2 is one of the most important places to visit in Polonnaruwa, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka during the Chola period. This structure, which is the oldest in Polonnaruwa, was built during the brief Chola period when Indian invaders established the city. Unlike many of the other buildings in the Ancient Cities, Shiva Devale No 2 was built entirely of stone, which means that it has survived the ravages of time remarkably well. Visitors to the site can experience what life was like during the Chola period and can marvel at the incredible skill and craftsmanship that went into building this structure. One of the highlights of Shiva Devale No 2 is the statue of Shiva’s mount, Nandi the bull. This magnificent statue is a testament to the artistic prowess of the ancient craftsmen who built the temple, and it is a must-see for anyone interested in the art and culture of ancient Sri Lanka. The temple is also home to several other fascinating relics and artefacts, including intricately-carved stone pillars and beautiful wall carvings. If you are planning a visit to Polonnaruwa, be sure to add Shiva Devale No 2 to your itinerary.
12. Pabalu Vehera
Pabalu Vehera stupa is a fascinating piece of architecture with a mysterious history. Although its origin is unknown, it is believed to have been built by Queen Rupawathi, one of King Parakramabahu’s consorts during the 12th century. The stupa’s unique name, “Pabalu,” meaning “beads,” comes from the large number of small glass beads found during the excavation of the area around the stupa. What sets Pabalu Vehera apart from other stupas is its nine-image houses. Typically, stupas only have four image houses, but Pabalu Vehera’s nine image houses contain various Buddha images, including sitting and standing Buddha statues, and other relics. One of the image houses contains the “Sri Pathla,” the footprint of the Buddha, while another house a reclining Buddha statue. Despite being damaged by invaders and treasure hunters in the past, Pabalu Vehera remains an important historical and cultural site, attracting visitors from all over the world. Visitors can climb a stairway to reach the first level of the stupa, where they can explore the image houses and marvel at the stupa’s unique architecture. If you are planning to visit Polonnaruwa, don’t miss out on exploring the famous Pabalu Vehera stupa, which is one of the top places to visit in Polonnaruwa.
13. Archaeological Museum of Polonnaruwa
The Archaeological Museum of Polonnaruwa is dedicated to showcasing the rich history of the city and its various archaeological findings. The museum is located in the Public Services Sports Club Hall and was established in 1962. Visitors to the museum can expect to see a wide variety of artefacts and exhibits that have been carefully preserved and conserved over the years. These include ancient statues, monuments, and other objects that were excavated from various sites around the city. One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of bronze monuments that are on display. These monuments are a true marvel of ancient Sri Lankan artistry and craftsmanship, and visitors are sure to be amazed by their intricate details and beauty. In addition to the bronze monuments, the museum also houses exhibits that showcase the different areas of the ancient city, including the citadel, the outer city, the monastery area, and the periphery. The Archaeological Museum of Polonnaruwa is open every day except full moon poya days from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Archaeological Museum Polonnaruwa is a must-visit destination for those exploring the rich history of Sri Lanka and the many fascinating places to visit in Polonnaruwa.
14. Kumara Pokuna
Kumara Pokuna is a significant historical site and one of the many fascinating places to visit in Polonnaruwa for tourists who are keen on exploring the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. It is a royal bath that dates back to the reign of King Parakramabahu the Great (1153-1186). The pond is located just outside the walls of the citadel and is believed to have been used by the king and his family for bathing and recreation. As you walk towards the Kumara Pokuna, you’ll be awed by its majestic presence. The pond is square and has several levels. It is surrounded by lush greenery and a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for relaxation. One of the unique features of Kumara Pokuna is the two Makarara sprouts located beside the entrance. Water flows into the pond through these sprouts, creating a soothing sound that adds to the overall ambience of the place. Apart from the pond, there is also a pavilion located nearby. The pavilion is said to have been used as a changing room, but its intricate design with a frieze of lions suggests that it was once a royal summerhouse. As you explore Kumara Pokuna, you’ll get a glimpse into the rich history and culture of ancient Sri Lanka.
15. Thivanka Image House
Thivanka Image House is an ancient Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka that is steeped in rich history and cultural significance. Built by King Parakramabahu in the 12th century as part of the Jethavanarama Complex, Thivanka Image House gets its name from the large Buddha statue inside, which has been curved in three places, giving it the distinctive appearance of three curves. The internal size of the temple building is substantially smaller than its outside dimensions of 133 feet long by 67.6 feet broad. The walls of the temple are 7–12 feet thick. Inside, visitors will find stunning frescoes that depict the Jataka Stories, which are the prior births of Buddha before his enlightenment. While much of the masonry has been destroyed over time, the colourful drawings can still be seen in the areas where the masonry is intact. As you enter the temple, you will pass through two guard stones and two “Korawak Gala,” before coming face to face with the impressive Buddha statue. Thivanka Image House is one of the most popular places to visit in Polonnaruwa due to its stunning Buddha statue and intricate frescoes that offer a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
16. Sathmahal Prasadaya
The Sathmahal Prasadaya is one of the most fascinating and unique places to visit in Polonnaruwa. This fascinating 12th-century structure is a seven-story step pyramid, which is believed to have been a stupa due to its location in a Buddhist environment. Although it is still unclear who built the tower or for what purpose, it remains a marvel of ancient engineering and design. As you approach the tower, you will notice its unique and impressive brick and plaster construction. The tower features a lateral staircase that leads to seven floors, with the seventh floor being partially destroyed over time. The Sathmahal Prasadaya has a square plan, and each of its four sides has an identical decoration. The top levels contain a sculpture at the centre of each wall, flanked by an arch and holes for anchoring a niche, while the ground floor has a false entrance. The tower’s origins remain shrouded in mystery, with some scholars even linking it to Alexander the Great’s pyre for Hephaestion in Babylon in the 4th century BC. Despite this uncertainty, the Sathmahal Prasadaya is still a magnificent sight to behold. It has been compared to other Buddhist architecture in Cambodia and Thailand but remains unique in the Polonnaruwa complex.
17. Pothgul Vehera
For history enthusiasts visiting Polonnaruwa, the Pothgul Vehera is a must-see attraction. This ancient Aramaic complex is believed to have served as a Buddhist library complex and a place where Buddhist scriptures were studied and resided. The Pothgul Vehera is a four-staged brick building with nine buildings on its third stage, believed to have housed the priests. The circular building on the top floor has a dome-shaped roof, although the roof itself is no longer present. Despite this, visitors can still see fragments of paintings on the walls, which have survived for over 800 years despite the ravages of time and nature. Scholars believe that the Pothgul Vehera was built by King Parakramabahu between 1153-1186. The complex is located at a distance from the statue, making it a quieter and more serene spot to visit. The peaceful surroundings make it easy to imagine the scholars and priests who once studied and lived in the complex, pouring over ancient texts and discussing the teachings of the Buddha. If you are looking for places to visit in Polonnaruwa that offer a glimpse into ancient Buddhist culture, the Pothgul Vehera is a fascinating attraction worth exploring.
18. Hatadage
Hatadage, an ancient relic shrine located in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. It was built by King Nissanka Malla and served as a shrine to house the Relic of the tooth of the Buddha. Stone, brick, and wood were used in the construction of the Hatadage, however only fragments of the stone and brick walls still stand today. Unfortunately, the upper storey of the Hatadage, which had the appearance of being a two-story building, has now been destroyed. However, visitors can still admire the three Buddha statues carved out of granite rock that is located within a chamber of the shrine. The centre statue is the tallest and stands at an impressive 9 feet, while the other two are 7.5 feet each. The shrine has a major entrance that leads to a small room and is enclosed by a stone wall that is 120 feet long and 90 feet broad. Six stone columns and a staircase leading to the top floor can be found in this chamber. This outer chamber is square in shape, and the main chamber is behind it. It has four windows on each side. Hatadage is a must-visit site for those exploring the historic and religious places to visit in Polonnaruwa.
19. Gal Potha Stone Inscription
Hatadage, an ancient relic shrine located in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. It was built by King Nissanka Malla and served as a shrine to house the Relic of the tooth of the Buddha. Stone, brick, and wood were used in the construction of the Hatadage, however only fragments of the stone and brick walls still stand today. Unfortunately, the upper storey of the Hatadage, which had the appearance of being a two-story building, has now been destroyed. However, visitors can still admire the three Buddha statues carved out of granite rock that is located within a chamber of the shrine. The centre statue is the tallest and stands at an impressive 9 feet, while the other two are 7.5 feet each. The shrine has a major entrance that leads to a small room and is enclosed by a stone wall that is 120 feet long and 90 feet broad. Six stone columns and a staircase leading to the top floor can be found in this chamber. This outer chamber is square in shape, and the main chamber is behind it. It has four windows on each side. Hatadage is a must-visit site for those exploring the historic and religious places to visit in Polonnaruwa.
20. Minneriya National Park
Minneriya National Park is one of the top places to visit in Polonnaruwa as it offers a chance to witness the famous gathering of wild elephants. Spread over 8,889 hectares, the park is part of the elephant corridor connecting Kaudulla and Wasgomuwa parks, providing a year-round opportunity to spot herds of elephants. One of the most notable attractions of the park is the renovated Minneriya Rainwater Reservoir, a testament to the ancient ingenuity of Sri Lankan civilization. The reservoir irrigates a considerable area of the district of Polonnaruwa and serves as the focal point of the park. Minneriya National Park’s vegetation includes tropical dry mixed evergreen forests, grasslands, abandoned chena lands, and wetlands. The open grasslands and old chena lands are dominated by many species of small shrubs, while abandoned chenas are dominated by kukuruman, keppettia, wara, and various types of grass. Minneriya National Park is also home to many other mammals, including leopards, sloth bears, spotted deer, wild buffalo, wild pigs, grey langurs, purple-faced leaf monkeys, three species of mongoose, porcupines, and Indian pangolins. The park is open daily from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, and the best time to visit is from May to October when the famous Gathering of wild elephants takes place.
Places to visit in Polonnaruwa
