Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Sri Lanka’s most impressive ancient cities. Once the thriving royal capital of the island, it is now a beautifully preserved archaeological treasure filled with temples, palaces, statues, and ancient reservoirs. With its well-planned city layout and remarkable stone craftsmanship, Polonnaruwa offers travellers an unforgettable journey into the island’s medieval past.

A City of Kings, Temples & Timeless Architecture

Between the 10th and 13th centuries, Polonnaruwa served as the royal seat of powerful kings who transformed the region into a thriving kingdom. Their legacy remains in the form of magnificent stone structures, vast tank systems, and sacred monuments that still stand proudly today. Exploring Polonnaruwa feels like walking through an open-air museum, where every corner reveals a story from Sri Lanka’s rich history.

Top Attractions in Polonnaruwa

• Gal Vihara – One of the most iconic sites, Gal Vihara features four massive Buddha statues carved into a single granite rock. These masterpieces, including the seated, standing, and reclining Buddhas, highlight the peak of ancient Sri Lankan artistry.
• Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu – This once-grand palace complex was said to have had seven stories and 1,000 rooms. Today, its imposing ruins and thick brick walls reveal the scale and sophistication of the ancient capital.
• Vatadage (Circular Relic House) – A beautifully crafted circular shrine believed to have housed sacred relics. Marble steps, guard stones, and intricately carved Buddha statues make it one of Polonnaruwa’s most admired structures.
• Rankoth Vehera – A towering stupa built by King Nissanka Malla, standing majestically among the ruins. It resembles the architecture of Anuradhapura and remains an active place of worship.
• Lankatilaka Temple – A massive brick structure with tall walls and a standing Buddha statue at the far end. The temple’s grand scale and architectural detail reflect the craftsmanship of the Polonnaruwa period.
• Parakrama Samudra (Sea of Parakramabahu) – A huge man-made reservoir that still irrigates the region today. Its size and engineering highlight the brilliance of ancient hydraulic systems.

Experiences & Activities in Polonnaruwa

• Cycling Through the Ancient City – Cycling is the best way to explore Polonnaruwa. The roads are flat, the sites are spread out, and the surroundings are peaceful and scenic.
• Wildlife Encounters – Monkeys, peacocks, deer, and birds are commonly seen across the archaeological park, adding life and charm to the historical setting.
• Photography – With ancient ruins, serene lakes, and dramatic stone carvings, Polonnaruwa is a dream location for photography enthusiasts.
• Evening Lake Views – Watching the sunset over Parakrama Samudra is a calming way to end the day in this historic city.

Climate & Best Time to Visit

Polonnaruwa is warm and dry for most of the year. The most comfortable time to visit is from June to September and December to March, when the weather is ideal for cycling and exploring archaeological sites.