Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa is an archaeological treasure in the north central province of Sri Lanka, serving as the medieval capital from the eleventh to the thirteenth centuries. This UNESCO World Heritage Site preserves the remains of grand palaces, temples, and public buildings built by ancient Sinhalese kings. Visitors enter through the Royal Palace complex with its distinctive stone throne and bathing ponds surrounded by lotus flowers. Nearby, the Gal Vihara rock temple offers four elegantly carved granite Buddha statues in varying poses, celebrated for their craftsmanship and serene expressions. A network of ancient irrigation systems including lakes and canals reflects sophisticated water management that supported urban life and agriculture. The Quadrangle area contains the Lankatilaka and Tivanka image houses, featuring lofty stone arches and intricate brickwork. Guided bicycle or elephant back tours allow travelers to traverse the spacious ruins amid lush greenery. At sunset, light filtering through the stone pillars creates a mystical ambiance that transports visitors back in time. Polonnaruwa offers a blend of architectural majesty, religious devotion, and engineering ingenuity that makes it a captivating window into medieval Sri Lankan civilization