Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa, located in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, is one of the country’s most impressive historical cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once the thriving capital of the island from the 11th to the 13th century, Polonnaruwa represents the golden age of Sinhalese civilization, following the decline of Anuradhapura. It is a city where ancient architecture, art, and irrigation engineering blend seamlessly with a tranquil, natural landscape. For travelers eager to explore Sri Lanka’s royal past, Polonnaruwa offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era of power, creativity, and devotion.

The city of Polonnaruwa was established by King Vijayabahu I, who liberated Sri Lanka from Chola invaders, but it reached its peak during the reign of King Parakramabahu the Great. His visionary leadership transformed Polonnaruwa into a hub of culture, trade, and religion. The extensive ruins of palaces, temples, stupas, and gardens that remain today are a testament to the grandeur of that era. The city’s layout, centered around majestic reservoirs and Buddhist monasteries, reveals a highly advanced sense of urban planning for its time.

One of the most awe-inspiring landmarks in Polonnaruwa is the Gal Vihara, a group of colossal Buddha statues carved into a single granite rock face. These statues — depicting the Buddha in seated, standing, and reclining postures — are renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship and spiritual tranquility. They embody the artistic mastery of the Polonnaruwa period and remain among the finest examples of ancient Sinhalese stone carving.

The Royal Palace complex of King Parakramabahu offers another glimpse into the city’s grandeur. Though much of it now lies in ruins, the massive foundations and surviving stone pillars give visitors an idea of its former magnificence. Nearby stands the Audience Hall, adorned with beautifully sculpted lion figures and intricate carvings that reflect the artistic excellence of the period.

Polonnaruwa’s brilliance also extended to engineering and irrigation. The Parakrama Samudra, an enormous artificial reservoir built by King Parakramabahu, remains one of the greatest feats of hydraulic engineering in ancient Sri Lanka. Covering an area of over 2,500 hectares, it continues to supply water for agriculture in the region to this day. The king’s famous statement — “Let not even a drop of rainwater go to the sea without being used for the benefit of mankind” — perfectly captures his vision and wisdom.

Religious devotion flourished in Polonnaruwa, as seen in monuments such as the Vatadage, a circular relic house believed to have once protected the Sacred Tooth Relic. Other notable sites include the Rankoth Vehera, Lankathilaka Image House, and Shiva Devales, which reflect the coexistence of Buddhist and Hindu influences in the city’s history.

Today, Polonnaruwa is not just an archaeological treasure but also a peaceful and picturesque destination surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife. Visitors can explore the ruins by bicycle, enjoying the calm atmosphere while immersing themselves in the city’s historical charm.

A visit to Polonnaruwa is a journey through time — a place where the echoes of kings, monks, and artisans still linger among the ancient stones. It stands as a proud reminder of Sri Lanka’s enduring cultural legacy and remains one of the most captivating destinations in the island’s Cultural Triangle.