Cultural Triangle
Polonnaruwa
The medieval capital of a golden age
Overview
AboutPolonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa succeeded Anuradhapura as capital and reached its zenith in the 12th century under kings Parakramabahu and Nissanka Malla — a compact, walkable ancient city whose sculpture, temples and reservoirs are astonishingly well preserved.
Set beside the vast Parakrama Samudra reservoir, Polonnaruwa is easily explored by bicycle. Highlights include the Royal Palace, the Quadrangle of temples, the great Gal Vihara Buddhas carved from a single granite outcrop, and the Lankatilaka image house.
Chosen for its strategic position by the Chola invaders and then reclaimed by the Sinhalese kings, Polonnaruwa flourished for less than two centuries but left behind one of the most refined artistic legacies in South Asia.
Top Attractions
What to see
- Gal Vihara rock-carved Buddhas
- The Quadrangle temple complex
- Royal Palace of Parakramabahu
- Rankoth Vehera stupa
- Parakrama Samudra reservoir
Things to do
Ways to experience Polonnaruwa
- Cycle the site with a specialist archaeological guide
- Visit Gal Vihara in the soft light of early morning
- Combine with Minneriya elephant safari nearby
Best time to visit
Cool morning and late afternoon are best year-round.
Nearby
Sigiriya • Minneriya • Kaudulla
Photography
Gal Vihara at first light • The Quadrangle's stone reliefs • Reservoir sunsets
Travel tips
- A private guide is essential to bring the site to life.
Suggested Journeys
Private toursfeaturing Polonnaruwa
Questions
About visiting Polonnaruwa
How does Polonnaruwa compare to Anuradhapura?
Polonnaruwa is more compact and easier to explore in half a day; Anuradhapura is larger, older and more overtly sacred.
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