Polonnaruwa
The Timeless Glory of an Ancient Kingdom
Step into the pages of history as you wander through Polonnaruwa, the medieval capital of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient city, once a thriving kingdom, still whispers tales of royal grandeur, Buddhist devotion, and remarkable engineering. The ruins stand proudly amidst lush greenery, offering a glimpse into a past where kings built magnificent palaces, intricately carved temples, and vast reservoirs that sustained their people.
Marvel at the Gal Vihara Buddha statues, where serenity is etched into stone, explore the Royal Palace, once an opulent residence of kings, and walk through the Sacred Quadrangle, a spiritual heart filled with timeless monuments. The impressive Parakrama Samudra, a vast man-made lake, reflects the ingenuity of ancient Sri Lankan civilization.
With its peaceful ambiance and architectural wonders, Polonnaruwa is a journey back in time, where history comes alive in every stone and sculpture.
Gal Vihara Buddha statues
Carved into a single granite rock face, the Gal Vihara Buddha statues are a true masterpiece of ancient Sri Lankan craftsmanship.
These four awe-inspiring statues, depicting the Buddha in different postures—seated, standing, and reclining—exude a sense of deep tranquility and divine grace.
The reclining Buddha, stretching over 46 feet, is particularly breathtaking, believed to represent the moment of Buddha’s passing into Nirvana.
Even centuries after their creation, the fine details and emotional depth of these carvings leave visitors spellbound, making Gal Vihara one of the most revered sites in Polonnaruwa.
Royal Palace
Imagine a time when kings ruled with splendor—The Royal Palace of Polonnaruwa, built by King Parakramabahu I, was once a magnificent seven-story structure, adorned with intricate carvings and towering columns.
Though time has taken its toll, the remaining massive brick walls and foundations still give a glimpse of its former grandeur.
Walking through the ruins, it’s easy to picture the palace bustling with life, filled with courtiers, royal guards, and echoes of a glorious past.
A visit to the Royal Palace is like stepping into the golden age of Sri Lanka’s ancient kings.
Sacred Quadrangle
At the heart of Polonnaruwa lies the Sacred Quadrangle, a breathtaking collection of ancient temples and shrines, each telling a unique story of devotion and artistry.
This compact yet architecturally stunning complex houses Vatadage, a circular relic house with beautifully preserved moonstones and guard stones, and the Thuparama Image House, home to one of the finest Buddha statues of the era.
As you explore the Sacred Quadrangle, you can’t help but feel a sense of peace, as if the very air is infused with centuries of prayers and spiritual energy.
It’s a must-visit site that perfectly captures the essence of Polonnaruwa’s religious and cultural significance.