Polonnaruwa – Ancient City of Kings and Timeless Beauty

Polonnaruwa, the second ancient capital of Sri Lanka, stands as a magnificent reminder of the island’s golden age of prosperity and cultural brilliance. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic city is filled with beautifully preserved stone carvings, temples, and stupas that reveal the grandeur of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. Located in the North Central Province, Polonnaruwa is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to explore Sri Lanka’s rich history, architecture, and spiritual heritage.

A Journey Through History

Polonnaruwa rose to prominence after the decline of Anuradhapura in the 11th century. King Vijayabahu I first established it as the capital, but it was during the reign of King Parakramabahu the Great (1153–1186 AD) that Polonnaruwa reached its peak. The king’s vision transformed the city into a thriving center of trade, religion, and irrigation. His famous saying, “Let not even a drop of rainwater go to the sea without being used by man,” reflects the remarkable engineering achievements of that era, especially the vast Parakrama Samudraya, an artificial lake that still supports local agriculture today.

Marvels of Ancient Architecture

One of the main attractions of Polonnaruwa is its well-preserved archaeological park, where visitors can explore temples, royal palaces, bathing ponds, and monumental statues.

• The Royal Palace Complex – Once the heart of the ancient city, this grand structure was built by King Parakramabahu and is believed to have had seven stories and over a thousand rooms. Though only the ruins remain, they still impress visitors with their sheer scale and craftsmanship.

• The Quadrangle (Dalada Maluwa) – This sacred complex houses some of the most significant monuments, including the Vatadage, a circular relic house built to enshrine the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha. Intricate moonstones, guard stones, and carved balustrades highlight the superior artistry of ancient Sri Lankan stone masons.

• Gal Vihara – A true masterpiece of stone carving, Gal Vihara features four colossal Buddha statues carved into a single granite rock face. The standing, seated, and reclining Buddha images radiate serenity and spiritual depth, making it one of the most iconic Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka.

• Rankoth Vehera – The largest stupa in Polonnaruwa, this majestic structure was built in the style of Anuradhapura’s great stupas and stands as a symbol of the continuity of Buddhist tradition through centuries.

Nature and Serenity Around Polonnaruwa

Beyond its ruins, Polonnaruwa is surrounded by scenic landscapes, lakes, and wildlife. The Parakrama Samudraya is an ideal spot for birdwatching and photography, especially during sunrise and sunset. The city also lies close to Minneriya National Park, famous for “The Gathering” — the world’s largest seasonal meeting of wild elephants, offering travelers a perfect mix of culture and nature.

Polonnaruwa Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Polonnaruwa is between May and September, when the weather is warm and dry.

• Getting There: Polonnaruwa is about a 4–5 hour drive from Colombo or 2–3 hours from Sigiriya. Visitors can also reach the city by train or bus.

• Exploring the Ruins: The archaeological site covers a large area, so hiring a bicycle or tuk-tuk is recommended to comfortably explore all the key attractions.

• Tickets: Foreign visitors must purchase an entry ticket, which grants access to all the main sites within the ancient city.

Why Visit Polonnaruwa

A visit to Polonnaruwa offers a journey back in time — to an era of kings, monks, and master craftsmen. Its serene environment, monumental ruins, and stunning sculptures create an unforgettable experience for history enthusiasts, photographers, and spiritual travelers alike.

For anyone exploring Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, Polonnaruwa stands proudly alongside Anuradhapura and Kandy, completing the story of the island’s ancient glory. It’s not just a city of ruins; it’s a living museum of Sri Lanka’s enduring spirit and creativity.