Polonnaruwa

About

Polonnaruwa was one of Sri Lanka's great royal capitals between the 11th and 13th centuries. Its surviving palaces, monasteries, stupas, Hindu shrines and reservoirs show both the religious importance of the city and the skill of its medieval builders.

The ancient city covers several kilometres, so it is not practical to see everything on foot in a short visit. Many travelers use a bicycle, tuk-tuk or private vehicle and then walk around each group of ruins. The Archaeological Museum is a useful first stop because its displays and models explain how the main buildings may once have looked.

Highlights

• Gal Vihara: Four serene Buddha images carved into a long granite rock face, including seated, standing and reclining figures.

• Sacred Quadrangle: A compact group of important monuments that includes the circular Vatadage, Hatadage and Nissanka Latha Mandapaya.

• Royal Palace Group: The remains of the palace associated with King Parakramabahu I, together with the Council Chamber and Royal Bath.

• Rankoth Vehera and Lankatilaka: Two of the ancient city's most impressive religious monuments, found within the larger monastic zone.

• Shiva Devale No. 2: A stone Hindu shrine that reflects the Chola period and the city's layered history.

• Parakrama Samudra: A vast historic reservoir associated with King Parakramabahu I and still central to the landscape around Polonnaruwa.

When to visit

Polonnaruwa can be visited throughout the year, but February to September generally brings less rain than the northeast monsoon period. The ruins are exposed and afternoons can be very hot, especially during the middle of the year. Start near opening time when possible, or visit the more open monuments later in the afternoon. Rain is more common from October to January, although weather can vary.

How to get there

Polonnaruwa is in Sri Lanka's North Central Province, within the Cultural Triangle. By road, it is usually around 1.5 hours from Sigiriya or Dambulla and about 5 to 6 hours from Colombo, depending on traffic and stops. Buses serve Polonnaruwa and the nearby commercial town of Kaduruwela.

Polonnaruwa has its own railway station in the Kaduruwela area on the Colombo to Batticaloa line. Some services connect with Colombo Fort, but timetables and seat availability should be checked before travel. The station and main bus areas are several kilometres from parts of the ancient city, so a tuk-tuk or taxi is useful for the final journey.

Travel tips

• Visit the museum or official ticket office first and keep your admission ticket ready, as it may be checked at different monument groups.

• Allow at least half a day for the main ruins. A slower visit can take most of the day.

• Cycle only if you are comfortable riding in strong heat. A tuk-tuk or car is easier for families and travelers with limited mobility.

• Cover your shoulders and knees at sacred places. Remove shoes and hats where signs or attendants request it.

• Carry socks because stone and sand can become very hot after footwear is removed.

• Do not climb on ruins, touch carvings or pose with your back toward a Buddha image.

• Bring drinking water, sunscreen, a hat and rain protection. Shade is limited in several parts of the site.

• Do not feed monkeys, and keep food, glasses and loose belongings secure.