Polonnaruwa Explorer
Step back in time to a medieval capital and cycle or stroll through the vast Polonnaruwa archaeological park, connect with Sri Lanka’s rich heritage and uncover fascinating stories of kings, feats of ancient engineering, and religious devotion – marvel at the impressive Gal Vihara rock temple with its serene Buddha statues, visit the Royal Palace, Council Chamber, and ancient Vatadage.
Gal Vihara
A masterpiece of Sinhalese rock carving, Gal Vihara features four striking Buddha statues—seated, standing, and reclining—carved into a single granite rock face during the reign of King Parakramabahu I in the 12th century. These sculptures reflect the pinnacle of Sri Lankan Buddhist artistry.
Royal Palace (King Parakramabahu’s Palace)
Once a majestic seven-storey building, the ruins of the Royal Palace offer insight into the grandeur of Parakramabahu I’s reign. The structure is believed to have had over 1,000 rooms, with thick walls that still stand today as a testament to ancient architecture.
Council Chamber
Located near the Royal Palace, this stone-pillared structure served as the meeting place for the king’s ministers. The carefully carved lion-shaped steps and name-inscribed pillars mark where royal advisors once sat in service to the kingdom.
Vatadage
A unique circular relic house believed to enshrine a sacred tooth relic or an alms bowl. Built during the Polonnaruwa period, it features concentric stone platforms, ornate guardstones, and moonstones—an exquisite example of Buddhist religious architecture.
Lankatilaka Image House
This grand image house features a towering 40-foot-high standing Buddha (now partially ruined) enclosed within high brick walls. Commissioned by King Parakramabahu, the structure highlights the monumental scale of devotional architecture of the time.
Quadrangle (Dalada Maluwa)
A compact yet richly significant cluster of religious buildings, including the Hatadage, Atadage, Thuparama, and Nissanka Latha Mandapaya. It served as a sacred terrace for relic worship, showcasing the spiritual devotion of Polonnaruwa’s rulers.
Audience Hall (Nissanka Malla’s Palace Complex)
Built by King Nissanka Malla, this hall was used for public ceremonies and royal announcements. Its well-preserved elephant-carved outer walls and raised stone platform make it a highlight of the king’s architectural legacy.
Parakrama Samudra (Sea of King Parakrama)
An enormous artificial reservoir spanning over 2,500 hectares, built by King Parakramabahu I to sustain agriculture and water management. His famous decree—”Let not even a drop of rainwater go to the sea without being used”—underscores the advanced hydraulic engineering of the time.