Top 10 Tourist Places in Polonnaruwa
Nestled in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, Polonnaruwa is a treasure trove of history, spirituality, and architectural brilliance. Once the medieval capital of the island (11th–13th century), this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a captivating journey into Sri Lanka’s golden age. From intricately carved Buddha statues to sprawling reservoirs and royal palaces, Polonnaruwa’s ruins reflect the ingenuity of ancient Sinhalese kings. In this guide, we explore the top 10 tourist places in Polonnaruwa, along with practical tips on weather, transportation, and more.
1. Gal Vihara: Masterpiece of Stone Sculpture
Tourist places in Polonnaruwa
Highlights: Four Buddha statues carved from a single granite rock.
No visit to Polonnaruwa is complete without marveling at Gal Vihara. This 12th-century rock temple features four iconic Buddha figures: a serene seated Buddha in meditation, a smaller seated figure, a towering 7-meter standing Buddha, and a 14-meter reclining Buddha symbolizing Nirvana. The precision of the carvings, especially the flowing robes and expressive faces, showcases the zenith of Sinhalese artistry.
Visitor Tip: Visit early morning to avoid crowds and capture the statues in soft golden light.
2. Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu I
Tourist places in Polonnaruwa
Highlights: Remnants of a seven-story palace with 1,000 chambers.
Once the epicenter of Polonnaruwa’s grandeur, the Royal Palace was built by King Parakramabahu I (1153–1186). Though only three stories of brick walls remain, the scale hints at its former glory—think wooden upper floors, royal baths, and audience halls. Nearby, the Council Chamber features stone elephants and lions guarding its staircases, a testament to the king’s administrative prowess.
Did You Know? The palace’s walls still bear burn marks from invasions.
3. Polonnaruwa Vatadage: Circular Relic House
Tourist places in Polonnaruwa
Highlights: Moonstones, guardian statues, and ancient stupa.
A gem of the Sacred Quadrangle, the Vatadage is a circular shrine designed to protect the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha. Four entrances, each adorned with exquisitely carved guardstones and moonstones, lead to a central stupa surrounded by Buddha statues. The structure’s symmetry and intricate carvings reflect the fusion of Sinhalese and South Indian architecture.
Pro Tip: Look for the “sandakada pahana” (moonstone) at the northern entrance—a symbolic representation of life’s cycle.
4. Rankoth Vehera: The Golden Pinnacle Stupa
Tourist places in Polonnaruwa
Highlights: Sri Lanka’s fourth-largest stupa, standing 55 meters tall.
Built by King Nissanka Malla, Rankoth Vehera mirrors the grandeur of Anuradhapura’s Ruwanwelisaya. Its massive dome, surrounded by smaller shrines, was once coated in gold. Pilgrims still circle the stupa clockwise, offering prayers. The site’s peaceful ambiance makes it ideal for reflection.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon, when the golden light enhances the stupa’s warm hues.
5. Lankatilaka Vihara: Cathedral of Ancient Buddhism
Tourist places in Polonnaruwa
Highlights: 17-meter-high walls and a headless Buddha statue.
The towering Lankatilaka Vihara is a monumental image house built by King Parakramabahu I. Its thick brick walls frame a colossal standing Buddha (now headless), while remnants of vibrant murals and floral carvings hint at its past splendor. The shrine’s design blends Buddhist and Hindu influences, reflecting Polonnaruwa’s multicultural heritage.
Visitor Note: Remove shoes before entering, and avoid turning your back to the Buddha statue.
6. Parakrama Samudra: King Parakramabahu’s Ocean
Tourist places in Polonnaruwa
Highlights: A 2,400-hectare reservoir sustaining agriculture since 1153.
Parakrama Samudra, or “Sea of Parakrama,” is a marvel of ancient irrigation. Built by King Parakramabahu I, this network of five interconnected lakes supported the city’s prosperity. Today, it’s a serene spot for boat rides, birdwatching, and sunset views. Don’t miss the Statue of King Parakramabahu nearby, depicting the monarch holding a sacred manuscript.
Fun Fact: The reservoir’s sluice gates are still functional.
7. Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum
Tourist places in Polonnaruwa
Highlights: Scale models, carvings, and historical artifacts.
Start your journey at the Archaeological Museum, where detailed models and artifacts—like bronze statues and pottery—paint a vivid picture of Polonnaruwa’s past. The museum’s exhibits explain the city’s layout, making it easier to visualize the ruins during their heyday.
Visitor Tip: View the ticket price here. Ticket prices are subject to change without prior notice.
8. Nissanka Latha Mandapaya: Lotus-Shaped Pavilion
Tourist places in Polonnaruwa
Highlights: Unique stone pillars shaped like lotus stems.
This whimsical structure, built by King Nissanka Malla, served as a royal assembly hall. Its eight stone pillars, carved to resemble blooming lotuses, support a circular platform. The design symbolizes purity in Buddhism, while inscriptions on the pillars detail the king’s achievements.
Photography Tip: The geometric patterns make for striking black-and-white shots.
9. Shiva Devalaya: Testament to Chola Influence
Tourist places in Polonnaruwa
Highlights: Sri Lanka’s oldest Hindu temple.
The Shiva Devalaya No. 2 dates back to the Chola dynasty’s brief rule (10th century). Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this granite temple features a lingam shrine and intricate carvings of Hindu deities. Its preservation offers a rare glimpse into South Indian architectural influence.
Cultural Insight: Local Hindus still worship here during festivals.
10. Pothgul Vihara: Ancient Library Complex
Tourist places in Polonnaruwa
Highlights: A 12th-century monastic library and meditation cells.
Pothgul Vihara is believed to have stored sacred Buddhist texts. The site includes a circular library, four miniature stupas, and a mysterious rock statue—possibly of King Parakramabahu or a sage. The tranquil setting, surrounded by lush greenery, invites quiet contemplation.
Polonnaruwa Travel Guide
Best Time to Visit Polonnaruwa
Dry Season (January–September): Ideal for exploring ruins; temperatures range from 25°C–35°C 28.
Avoid October–December: Heavy monsoon rains disrupt outdoor activities 14.
Colombo to Polonnaruwa Train Schedule
Departure from Colombo Fort: 6:05 AM and 3:05 PM daily.
Duration: ~6 hours; tickets start at $2 (third class) 14.
Return (Polonnaruwa to Colombo): Trains depart at similar times; check www.railway.gov.lk for updates.
Getting Around Polonnaruwa
Bicycles: Rent for ~500 LKR/day; eco-friendly but challenging in heat 48.
Tuk-tuks: Hire for ~6,000 LKR/day; drivers often double as guides 10.
Where to Stay
Luxury: Ekho Lake House (colonial-style with lake views) 2.
Mid-Range: Lake Cabin (scenic gardens and pools) 2.
Budget: Sanctuary Cove Guest House (homely vibe and bike rentals) 2.
Final Thoughts
Polonnaruwa is more than an archaeological site—it’s a window into Sri Lanka’s soul. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of ancient kings at the Royal Palace or meditating beside Gal Vihara’s reclining Buddha, this ancient city promises an unforgettable journey. Plan your visit during the dry season, pack light clothing, and let Polonnaruwa’s timeless wonders captivate you.
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