Things To Do Polonnaruwa

Sri Lanka

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Places To Visit In Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa Vatadage

Polonnaruwa Vatadage is a well-preserved Vatadage in the famous Dalada Maluwa quadrangle of the ancient city of ruins, Polonnaruwa. Vatadages are typical Buddhist structures found in Sri Lanka. These are circular, constructed using stone and brick with intricate stone carvings and a wooden roof. They were built to protect stupas. Currently, there are ten Vatadages in Sri Lanka, and the most popular one is Polonnaruwa Vatadage. This structure is built in Buddulakara or bubble-shaped design and is the perfect example of a typical Sri Lankan Vatadage. The upper part of the structure has been destroyed; only the lower part remains. Many theories revolve around the construction of this monument, but most historians agree to the hypothesis that it was built by Parakramabahu I in the 12th century. The Vatadage was initially constructed to protect the tooth relic of Buddha and his ten commandments. Buddhists believe that Buddha’s left canine remained even after his cremation, and the country has preserved this relic as their prized possession. This tooth, which was the reason for the construction of Polonnaruwa Vatadage, is now placed in the Temple of Kandy. The Vatadage protects a small stupa of 8 inches. The structure has two platforms - an upper platform and a lower one. The lower platform is 120 feet in diameter and 4 feet in height, while the top platform is 80 feet in diameter and 5 feet in height. The centre of the top platform has four Buddhist statues in dhyana mudra in sitting position. The four figures are 5 feet tall and face the four cardinal directions. This architecture makes the Vatadage a very typical one, with a charm of its own. The structure and its surroundings emit positivity and are extremely inviting for tourists. Read More

Pothgul Viharaya, Polonnaruwa

Pothgul Viharaya is an old library and monastery in the Polonnaruwa district of Sri Lanka. The ruins of this ancient library date back to the twelfth century. The name Pothgul itself means 'Bookstore'. The library was as a place to store Buddhist books built with bricks, but now it is nothing but a demolished historic site. It was once part of a monastery and provide shelter to resident monks. It was thought to be a Buddhist library complex where Buddhist writings were studied. It is situated next to a beautiful lake where tourists can enjoy boating. Read More

This magnificent stupa is situated in Polonnaruwa and is the 4th largest stupa in Sri Lanka. Built by the Nissanka Malla(1187-1196) it is one of the most sought after tourist attractions, i.e. 'dagobas' of the country. Rich in vibrant history and scenic beauty, this place must be on your to-visit list if you come to Sri Lanka.The stupa of Rankoth Vehera is in the centre of a large square terrace. There are four entrances to the yard with four cardinal points. Located in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa in Sri Lanka, Rankoth Vehera's design was inspired by thtraditional stupas in Anuradhapura Maha Viharaya and bears a close resemblance to Ruwanwelisaya. According to a stone inscription found in the vicinity of the stupa, it was initially named as "Ruwanweli Stupa". However, later, it was called Rankoth Vehera and had a circumference of 200m initially. Located in the centre of a large square terrace,it has four entrances to the yard with four cardinal points. You can take the sandy path to the stupa for a walk, the peaceful atmosphere, which is a common factor at every temple here, can relax your mind for a while. Both local and foreign travellers visit the Rankoth Vehera daily and engage with rituals without considering their born religious background. At the same time, you can know more about the murals and frescoes in the image house from the chief incumbent in the temple. Read More

Constructed under the reign of King Mahaparakram Bahu between the years 1153 to 1186, the striking Royal Palace stands as the emblem of grandeur in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. The Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu is a place of great historical importance, the reason why it was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO in the year 1982. Historical books claim that the palace constructed in the 10th century once held seven stories along with 1000 chambers, but the ruins now have only 55 halls and three floors which implies that the top four floors may have been constructed with wood. Outside the citadel, one can visit the Royal bath or Kumar Pokuna which was designed such that it received water from the adjacent water source. Apart from the royal bath, the Council Chamber of king Parakrambahu is also an essential part of the palace premises.A visit to this paradigm of luxury is both thrilling and chilling as to how nothing escapes the wrath of time. A must visit for all those who appreciate the ancient architectural marvels. Read More