Polonnaruwa is the main town of Polonnaruwa District in North Central Province, Sri Lanka. Kaduruwela area is the Polonnaruwa New Town and the other part of Polonnaruwa remains as the royal ancient city of the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa.

The second most ancient of Sri Lanka’s kingdoms, Polonnaruwa was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I, who defeated Chola invaders in 1070 to reunite the country once more under a local leader. The Ancient City of Polonnaruwa has been declared a World Heritage Site.

The Royal Palace Complex

  • Built by King Parakramabahu I in the 12th century.
  • Features the Vijayanta Pasada, once a seven-story palace, now in ruins.
  • Includes the Council Chamber, with intricately carved stone pillars.

Gal Vihara (Rock Temple)

  • Home to four stunning Buddha statues carved into granite.
  • Features a 14-meter-long reclining Buddha, a seated Buddha, and two standing Buddhas.
  • Renowned for its artistic mastery and spiritual significance.

Vatadage (Circular Relic House)

  • A beautifully carved circular shrine, possibly housing relics of the Buddha.
  • Known for its intricate stone carvings and moonstone entrance.
  • Considered one of the finest architectural structures in Polonnaruwa.

Rankoth Vehera Stupa

  • The largest stupa in Polonnaruwa, standing at 54 meters tall.
  • Built by King Nissanka Malla, symbolizing the power of the ancient kingdom.

Parakrama Samudra (Sea of Parakrama)

  • A massive man-made reservoir built by King Parakramabahu I.
  • Spans 2,500 hectares, providing irrigation and stunning sunset views.
  • Famous for the saying, “Not even a little water that comes from the rain must flow into the ocean without being made useful to man.”

Lankatilaka Temple

  • A majestic brick temple featuring a towering Buddha statue.
  • Notable for its tall walls, intricate carvings, and spiritual ambiance.

Lotus Pond (Nelum Pokuna)

  • A unique lotus-shaped stone pond, once used by monks for bathing.
  • Exemplifies the advanced hydrological engineering of ancient Sri Lanka.

Shiva Devale (Hindu Temples)

  • Hindu shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, reflecting the cultural diversity of the region.
  • Devale No. 2 is the oldest structure in Polonnaruwa.

Pabalu Vehera

  • A unique stupa with unconventional architecture.
  • Believed to be built by King Parakramabahu’s queen.