Welcome to Polonnaruwa, a fascinating city that stands as an emblem of Sri Lanka's illustrious history. Enter the alluring world of Polonnaruwa, a historic city that engulf you in Sri Lanka's rich heritage and cultural treasures. Explore the spectacular ruins that dot its terrain, discover the stunning Buddha sculptures carved out of rock, admire the Quadrangle's architectural marvels which are examples of early workmanship and uncover the mysteries of Polonnaruwa's past while relishing in its scenic splendor that continues to exist throughout the centuries. Let us lead you through the captivating architecture, exquisite ruins, and rich cultural history that make Polonnaruwa an unmissable location.
Polonnaruwa also known as Pulathisipuraya, is another gorgeous ancient city belonging to the Cultural Triangle and also a World Heritage Site in the North Central Province that became the capital of Sri Lanka at the period of 11th and 12th centuries when Anuradhapura was invaded in the late 10th Century. This is another city that was highly impacted by Buddhist culture therefore you can have a glimpse of the historical sites and ruins such as the ancient temples, charming Brahmanic monuments, magnificent interconnected palaces, administrative constructions and huge stone statues.
The impressive Royal Palace in Polonnaruwa was built between 1153 and 1186 during the time of King Mahaparakramabahu. UNESCO designated the Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu as a World Heritage Site in 1982 due to its immense heritage value. The city's archaeological museum is made up of chambers filled with amusing artifacts that have been demolished. The museum, which included exhibits from 1012 A.D was founded at the Public Services Sports Club Hall of Polonnaruwa in 1962. The Chola dynasty, which had some of the most powerful monarchs, dominated the area throughout this time. King Parakramabahu I, who tirelessly oversaw the construction of Polonnaruwa, was one of the most devoted monarchs. The museum appears to be a modest, straightforward cottage from the outside, but it is really filled with a range of educational images and artifacts within.
The Lotus Pond, a charming attraction that is located at the historic city of Polonnaruwa, radiates timeless elegance and tranquility. This carefully created pool contains extravagantly carved lotus blooms that provides a mesmerizing ambience that carries guests into a peaceful realm. The Lotus Pond provides a gorgeous environment surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors are in awe of its elegance and the magnificence of fusion of human craftsmanship and nature, which serves as a tribute to the creativity and aesthetic brilliance of ancient Sri Lankan architects.
Polonnaruwa's Danigala Circular Rock is a gorgeous rock structure that mesmerizes with its singular and recognizable shape. It is a cluster of undiscovered mountains hidden along the southeast borders of Polonnaruwa which are home to several historical and archeological treasures. This spectacular natural feature stands above the surrounding scenery like a huge round rock and has not been explored by hikers and researchers for years due to earlier civil wars. Its curved, smooth appearance, which is reminiscent of an ancient amphitheater, inspires viewers to be in awe of its mysterious charm. You have no choice but to admire the beauties of this wonderful creation of nature as you stand in awe at the Danigala Circular Rock. These tranquil highlands provide unexplored delights just waiting to be discovered for those who are looking for an adventurous family or a solo vacation.
The ancient relics and exhibits of the Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum provide tourists with an enthralling journey. Visitors are able to completely lose themselves in the glorious days of the history of Polonnaruwa and the very specific artifacts of the ancient period thanks to the well selected exhibitions of the museum, which highlights the rich cultural heritage of this historic town. The seven exhibits in the museum, which are specifically the citadel, outer city, monastery complex, hinterland monasteries, and Hindu shrines, are organized with relevance and exact build to the original municipal design. Enter the majestic world where history comes to life as you go through the museum's hallways decorated with beautiful carvings and interesting inscriptions. Admire the realistic monuments that serve as ethereal reminders of the splendor of this historic city.
Dalada Maluwa was the sacred ancient place designed to place the Holy Tooth Relic of Buddha. Dalada Maluwa was also referred to as the Terrace of the Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha and it was a stunning artistic creation of architecture from the 12th century; nevertheless, the Tooth Relic is currently kept at Kandy Tooth Relic Temple. In this spiritual place, you'll explore other breathtaking sights, including:
This is one of the dagobas or as we know, a stupa situated in Kataragama region of this ancient city. It is a whitewashed stupa that is 80 feet tall and is known to be the 2nd greatest stupa in the city. This was constructed by Queen Subhadra, King Parakramabahu’s wife, in the 11th Century AD which was initially called the Rupavathi Chaitya. However Kiri Viharaya was the name later given to it which gives the meaning “white stupa” due to the limewashed coating.
There are also very historical temples and monasteries you can visit such as the Gal Viharaya, Pothgul Viharaya and Lankatilake Temple.
Explore the amazing reservoir renowned to be Parakrama Samudra which was gorgeously built by King Parakrama. The five bodies of water that make up this reservoir are Thopa, Dumbutulu, Erabadu, Boo, and Katu tanks which are also referred to as King Parakrama's Sea which is one great marvel of Polonnaruwa. The oldest reservoir in the area is Thopa Wewa, which dates back to 386 AD. Erabadu Wewa may be found in the center, while Dumbutula Wewa can be found below. A smaller dam separates the lakes in this area to ease the strain. Anyone who visits this place is enchanted by the serenity of the waterflow and the splendor of nature.
Rankoth Vehera is the magnificent stupa located inside the historic city of Polonnaruwa which is a noteworthy example of prehistoric Sri Lankan architecture. This majestic edifice is regarded as one of Polonnaruwa's biggest stupas which mesmerizes visitors with its immense size and elegant design. Rankoth Vehera, built with preciseness and enhanced with beautiful brickwork, creates a sense of nobility and serenity. Visitors find themselves taken back in time as they take in its majestic presence, marveling at the brilliant architectural design and divine importance of this treasured relic.
Engage in a family adventure trip to Sri Lanka so that you can enjoy a lovely bicycle ride around the 14 km long Parakrama Samudraya lake that is surrounded by amusing standpoints, historical monuments, and paddy fields. Take a fun but educational boat ride to Bird Island, the greatest of the lake's six islets, which is home to a wide range of bird species, namely egrets, herons, cormorants, storks, and ibis. When the water level of the lake increases, the breeding season for the birds begins therefore every bush and tree on the island serves as a breeding habitat for the birds.
Take yourself on a hike to explore the cluster of the undiscovered mountains, the Danigala Circular Rock, hidden along the southeast borders of Polonnaruwa which are home to treasures from the rich history of Polonnaruwa. Enjoy a moment of tranquility, surrounded by nature's beauty as you ponder along this gorgeous place.
Take a visit to the Parakramabahu statue in the Polonnaruwa Ancient City situated next to the Potgul Vihara monastery complex, which King Parakramabahu I constructed in the 12th century AD. Standing twelve feet tall, it depicts an old man reading from a manuscript while wearing a melancholy smile, an ominous look, and half-closed eyes.
Bring yourself on a photographic expedition to capture the spirit of this vibrant town through the lens of your camera. Record everything from breathtaking intricate architecture to fascinating scenes from nature, the ancient ruins and picturesque panoramas of Polonnaruwa and take it back with you as one of the most memorable experiences.
Experience an enticing wildlife safari and a research tour of tortoises to Polonnaruwa to see the fascinating activities of red-eared sliders, Sri Lankan black terrapins, star tortoises, and Sri Lankan softshell terrapins. Watch these lovely animals in their natural environment and observe how they feed and sunbathe. Various kinds of monkeys and more than 20 different bird species are among the animal species you'll come across as you travel across this beautiful town, enhancing the already educational and thrilling nature experience of your tour. This tour offers a rare chance to learn about Sri Lanka's diverse wildlife and is highly recommended for children’s educational field trips.
Learn about the historical techniques of irrigation utilized in Sri Lanka while also investigating water channeling strategies by also taking a look at the amazing stone bridge King Mahasen constructed over the Ambangaga River in the third century AD. This study, done by the Institute of Dry Zone Ecology & Environmental Studies, highlights the extraordinary historic irrigation practices in that region and it offers useful insights for educational tours in Sri Lanka.
Does not it excite you when you hear such amazing historical facts about these historical and cultural heritages that exist to be renowned even today. It keeps us thinking about how these sculptures and monuments were done as we are told that we have better technology now but as you can see, does not it show that people back then had much advanced technology to build marvelous monuments like these? If you are a history lover, it may amaze you in many ways. If you are a nature and adventure lover, you still have many more amazing sites in this ancient city to explore which will be a very educational tour for you to experience and a family tour would be marvelous for the young kids to watch and educate themselves. You can also feel and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that Polonnaruwa holds for you which will provide you with the relaxation you need as you educate and enjoy yourself.