Polonnaruwa – Journey Through the Ancient Ruins of Sri Lanka’s Glorious Past

References
Once Anuradhapura fell in the latter part of the tenth century, Polonnaruwa was made the capital of Sri Lanka. Polonnaruwa became well-known during the 11th-century reign of King Vijayabahu I. The metropolis was declared the capital of his realm when King Vijayabahu I successfully overthrew Chola hegemony. Despite this, Polonnaruwa peaked during King Parakramabahu I (1153–1186) and King Nissanka Malla (1187–1196).

Highly regarded are King Parakramabahu I’s vast construction and irrigation projects, which transformed Polonnaruwa into a thriving metropolis with cutting-edge infrastructure. Mansions, temples, universities, and a sophisticated drainage system—including the enormous Parakrama Samudra (Sea of Parakrama) pond—were all part of the metropolis. Polonnaruwa remained the capital until the late 13th century, when constant invasions forced its abandonment.

Main Attractions

The Complex of the Royal Palace
Polonnaruwa has one of the most magnificent royal palace complexes, constructed by King Parakramabahu I. Originally standing seven stories high, the structure was called the Vijayabahu building and had many rooms and halls. The rooms’ design and remnants of thick brick walls give visitors an idea of the opulence of the former royal residence.

The council chamber and listening hall, which are next to the palace, are furnished with ornate stone sculptures and lion images. The audience hall, with its lion throne and exquisitely carved stone pillars, epitomizes the architectural genius of the time.

The Quadrangle (Dalada Maluwa)
Among the most significant religious objects in Polonnaruwa are housed at the Quadrangle, also known as Dalada Maluwa, a sacred building. Famous structures in the Quadrangle consist of:

One of the most remarkable structures in Polonnaruwa. Two circular stone platforms with elaborate carvings lead to a central mound encircled by four Buddha images.
The sacred tooth relic of the Buddha was housed in this shrine. Hatadagewhich was constructed by King Nissanka Malla. The three Buddha statue ruins and stone walls define it.
Attadage: King Vijayabahu I constructed another temple for the Tooth Relic. Even though the building is in ruins, the stone walls and elaborate patterns are still discernible.
The enormous stone slab Gal Potha (Stone Book) is engraved with King Nissanka Malla’s accomplishments. Important historical details are included with the engravings, which also explain the king’s deeds.

Gal Vihara
Known by another name, the Rock Temple, Gal Vihara is one of Polonnaruwa’s most well-known sites. This rock shrine’s focal point is four large Buddha images carved onto a single granite rock face. Masterworks of Sinhalese rock carving, the figurines depict several Buddha postures (standing, sitting, and laying).

The 14-meter-long sitting Buddha image, with its composed expression and painstaking detailing, is particularly noteworthy. Gal Vihara represents the achievements of the Polonnaruwa artists, both spiritually and artistically.

Rankoth Vehera
The largest stupa in Polonnaruwa, Rankoth Vehera, was constructed by King Nissanka Malla. An incredible work of ancient architecture, this massive stupa stands 54 meters high and 55 meters in diameter. Representing the religious significance of the city, picture homes and tiny stupas around the stupa.

With its bell-shaped building and outstanding preservation, Rankoth Vehera is still a significant religious site and a representation of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist past.

Image House of Lankathilaka
A tall standing Buddha statue is housed in the magnificent Lankathilaka Image House. The picture house, designed by King Parakramabahu I, features exquisitely carved walls. The Buddha image, standing 14 meters high, inspires wonder and reverence, even if it is partially shattered.

Beautiful paintings and carvings depicting many Buddhist themes and styles decorate the walls of the Lankathilaka Image House. This site offers evidence of the outstanding creative and architectural talents of Polonnaruwa’s painters.

Architecural Wonders

Advanced watering systems
Its sophisticated irrigation systems are among Polonnaruwa’s most remarkable characteristics. Building several lakes, canals, and dams was one of King Parakramabahu I’s audacious undertakings that transformed the arid region into fertile agricultural land. Among them, the most significant is the 2,500-acre Parakrama Samudra artificial lake.

Polonnaruwa’s irrigation systems supplied water for the city’s residents in addition to farming. These technical wonders display the inventiveness and skill of ancient Sri Lankan society.

Vatadage
A one-of-a-kind construction, the Polonnaruwa Vatadage is meant to guard a little stupa. This circular construction consists of four doorways to the stupa, each defended by exquisitely carved stone figures, and two inner platforms. The Vatadage is among the outstanding examples of traditional Sri Lankan architecture because of its intricate shape and artistic qualities.

Nissanka Latha Mandapaya
King Nissanka Malla created the remarkable Nissanka Latha Mandapaya. Singing Buddhist scriptures was done in an open building, which was pillared with exquisitely carved stone. The building has artistic appeal since the columns are meant to resemble lotus stems. Nissanka Latha Mandapaya demonstrates how Polonnaruwa’s structure combines artistic expression with practicality.

Practical Advice for Traveling to Polonnaruwa

The Best Time to Go
From May to September, the dry season, is the best time to visit Polonnaruwa because of the ideal weather for seeing the remnants. The colder months of December and February are also great for a visit. The best times to visit the area are early mornings and late afternoons, when the light is ideal for taking pictures.

Directions
One may go by rail or car to Polonnaruwa. Frequent buses and trains go to Polonnaruwa from Colombo, Kandy, and other major cities. Bus or rail travel from Colombo takes around six to seven hours. There is plenty of parking close to the main historical monuments, and Polonnaruwa is well-connected by road for those who drive.

Admission Charges and Tour Guides
Entrance fees to the Polonnaruwa ancient site apply; tickets are available at the main gate. It is strongly advised to engage a local guide to get an in-depth understanding of the significance and history of the locations. Important background is given via guided tours, which also enable visitors to appreciate the intricate details and anecdotes of each building.

Facilities and Features
Many facilities are provided by Polonnaruwa to guarantee a pleasant stay, such as:

Maps, brochures, and other information are available in the Visitor Center.
Bathrooms: Throughout the historic site, there are many locations with clean, well-maintained bathrooms.
Cafes and Restaurants: In close proximity, there are eateries and cafes serving meals, snacks, and beverages.
Bicycle Rentals: Offering independence and convenience, renting a bicycle is a common way to see the large sights.

Items to bring
Take into account packing the following things when you visit Polonnaruwa:

Comfortable Walking ShoesVisiting the enormous ruins requires appropriate footwear.
Sunscreen and Hat: To shield against the sun, particularly at the hottest hours of the day.
Water Bottle: To keep hydrated when visiting the location.
Camera or smartphone: To capture the ruins’ historical significance and beauty.
Guidebook: To provide more information and context for the various locations.

Number One: Health and Safety
Although Polonnaruwa is a secure and well-kept place, one should adhere to several fundamental safety precautions:

Remain on designated trails.Avoid climbing on the structures and remain on the designated trails to preserve the ruins and your personal safety.
Respect the wildlife. Animals living there include birds and monkeys. They should be seen from a distance; do not attempt to feed or get close.
Remember Site Rules: Respect the guidelines provided by the historical site, which include placing rubbish in designated bins and not touching or removing anything.

Synopsis

As evidence of Sri Lanka’s rich historical and cultural legacy, Polonnaruwa stands. The well-maintained remnants of the city provide a fascinating window into the past, displaying the technical, artistic, and architectural achievements of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. A fascinating and instructive experience for visitors, Polonnaruwa provides everything from the opulence of the Royal Palace Complex and the serene spirituality of Gal Vihara to the intricate details of the Polonnaruwa Vatadage and the cutting-edge irrigation systems.

Make time to see Polonnaruwa’s architectural masterpieces, explore its historical riches, and take part in the

remembering a once-great metropolis. Polonnaruwa is a rich and fulfilling destination for anybody who likes history, architecture, or just wishes to travel through time.