The Second Most Ancient Kingdom. (Polonnaruwa Sri Lanka)
Polonnaruwa was once the second most ancient kingdom in Sri Lanka and thrived 800 years ago as a commercial and religious centre. It served as a base for the kings who ruled the central plains of Sri Lanka, while traders sold rare goods and the pious prayed at the various temples. In 1982, UNESCO declared Polonnaruwa an official World Heritage Site.
Best-planned Archaeological Site in the Country.
The ancient city is a remarkable example of the discipline and greatness of the medieval rulers of the country. It is considered to be the best-planned archaeological site in the country, boasting several dagobas and other ruins that date back almost 1000 years. However, the highlight of the city is Gal Vihara – a rock temple that is part of the Parakramabahu northern monastery. King Vijayabahu I declared the city the capital of Sri Lanka, and he reigned from 1017 AD to 1235 AD. The city was self-sufficient and flourished due to its excellent irrigation system.
If you would like to know more information about Sri Lanka, please get in touch with Ceylon Classic Tours.
Highlights of Polonnaruwa
- The site features a 31-meter Royal Palace, believed to have been seven stories tall, along with ruins of a Council Chamber, an Audience Hall with carved elephants, and Royal Baths.
- The Sacred Quadrangle in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka is a popular attraction. It comprises The Vatadage, a circular relic house with four well-preserved stone Buddhas, and other ruins in a small area
- Shiva Devale No. 1 is the oldest brick building on the site, dedicated to Vishnu or Shiva. It’s one of the few Pandyan-era Hindu shrines in Polonnaruwa.
If you would like to know more information about Sri Lanka, please get in touch with Ceylon Classic Tours.
