Polonnaruwa: The Ancient Capital of Sri Lanka
Polonnaruwa, located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, stands as one of the most important archaeological and historical sites in the country. Serving as the second capital of ancient Sri Lanka after the fall of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa thrived between the 11th and 13th centuries, particularly under the reign of the famous King Parakramabahu I.
A City of Great Kings
Polonnaruwa rose to prominence under King Vijayabahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders and established the city as the new royal capital. However, it was King Parakramabahu I (1153–1186 AD) who transformed Polonnaruwa into a glorious and well-planned city. His rule brought advanced irrigation systems, including the magnificent Parakrama Samudraya — a massive man-made reservoir that still supplies water to farmers today.
The city was not only a political center but also a religious and cultural hub, filled with grand Buddhist monuments, temples, and sculptures that showcased the craftsmanship of the era.
Highlights of Polonnaruwa
-
Gal Vihara: This rock temple is a must-visit. It features four majestic statues of the Buddha carved into a single granite rock, showing different poses — sitting, standing, and reclining.
-
Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu: Although now in ruins, the grand palace complex once had seven stories and housed thousands of rooms.
-
Vatadage: A beautifully preserved circular relic house believed to have been built to protect a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha.
-
Nissanka Latha Mandapaya: An elegant stone structure built for King Nissanka Malla’s private worship, showcasing artistic stone pillars shaped like lotus stems.
-
Rankoth Vehera: A large stupa that reflects the influence of the earlier Anuradhapura period, standing at 55 meters high.
Why Visit Polonnaruwa?
Today, Polonnaruwa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drawing visitors from all around the world who come to admire its historical treasures and the peaceful beauty of its surroundings. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a photographer, or a traveler seeking to understand Sri Lanka’s rich past, Polonnaruwa offers an unforgettable journey into a time of kings, monks, and incredible feats of engineering.
Exploring Polonnaruwa is like stepping into a living museum — every stone, every carving, and every temple has a story to tell.