Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa – another ancient capital and a kingdom that flourished in the 10t century is a cultural capsule for the island’s Hindu origins. Growing under the Indian Chola rule many of the architectural marvels and ruins have a distinct flair to them brought on by the both local and Chola influence. Notwithstanding the destruction caused by invaders, Polonnaruwa, an old city with some impressively well-preserved remains, is a must-visit location on an all-inclusive tour of Sri Lanka. The Parakrama Samudraya (The sea of King Parakrama) is a 14km long reservoir that is also a must see for any tourist. The Gal Vihara, the Stone Reliquary, with its enormous rock sculptures is undoubtedly one of the greatest achievements of Sinhalese art.Polonnaruwa city is where you can see the island’s greatest historical treasures.
Top Attractions around Polonnaruwa
Gal Vihare
The Gal Vihara, originally known as the Uttararama, is a rock temple of the Buddha situated in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. The temple complex consists of four different Buddha statues, which are carved out of a single granite rock. The main statue is a 46-foot-long, considered to be one of the largest rock-carved Buddha statues in the world.
Vatadage
An ancient structure located in a quadrangular area, Dalada Maluva in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. It has two stone platforms decorated with elaborate stone carvings. Visitors can explore the site and marvel at the ancient craftsmanship and engineering. It is also a site of religious significance, and pilgrims often visit the vatadage to offer prayers and offerings.
Rankoth Vehera
Rankoth Vehera is 170m tall and known to be the 4th largest stupa in Sri Lanka. The only construction material used on this was brick. Visitors to Rankoth Vehera can climb the stairs to the top of the stupa and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. They can also explore the complex and admire the intricate carvings and sculptures that decorate the walls and pillars.
Parakrama Samudraya
It was built in Polonnaruwa by King Parakramabahu the first. The Sea of Parakrama or Parakrama Samudra originally consisted of five large reservoirs which relieved the pressure on the main dam. Visitors can explore the reservoir, enjoying the natural beauty of the landscape. Also, learn about the ancient irrigation systems and the role they played in supporting the agricultural economy of ancient Sri Lanka.
Thivanka Pilimage
Thivanka Pilimage/ Pilima Geya or Tivanka Image House is a Gedige (vaulted) type Image house located in the sacred city of Polonnaruwa. The temple’s main feature is a three-story shrine, which is decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures. The interior of the shrine is adorned with beautiful frescoes, which depict scenes from the life of the Buddha.
Nissanka Latha Mandapaya
One of the most unique structures built by King Nissankamalla, is believed to be the recitation house for Buddhist chanting (pirith). The building is known for its unique architecture, which features intricate carvings and decorative motifs. It is supported by a series of stone columns, and its roof is decorated with a row of stone-carved elephant heads.
The Palace of King Parakramabahu
This was a 7 storeyed building with about 1000 rooms, built by the King Parakramabahu the Great. The palace features a number of different buildings, audience halls, residential quarters, and administrative offices. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the palace complex.
Sathmahal Prasada
This pyramid-shaped, seven storied building called Sathmahal Prasadaya is an unusually shaped stupa built during Polonnaruwa Period. Today, visitors can climb to the top of the building and take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
GALLERY
