"Ancient kingdom with ruins, temples, and timeless royal heritage"

Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Sri Lanka’s most impressive ancient cities. Once the thriving capital of a medieval kingdom, it now showcases beautifully preserved ruins, grand palaces, and intricate stone carvings. Visitors can explore historic temples, statues of kings, and sacred stupas that reflect the architectural and cultural brilliance of Sri Lanka’s golden age.

Cycling through the ancient city is a popular and peaceful way to explore Polonnaruwa’s vast archaeological park. Highlights include the Gal Vihara Buddha statues carved from granite, the Royal Palace complex, and the Lotus Pond. Surrounded by lakes and lush greenery, Polonnaruwa offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s glorious past, perfect for history lovers and cultural explorers alike.

Watadageya

The Vatadageya in Polonnaruwa is a stunning circular relic house built to protect a sacred stupa. Featuring intricate stone carvings, guard stones, and four seated Buddha statues facing cardinal directions, it showcases ancient Sinhalese architectural mastery. This iconic structure is a highlight of Polonnaruwa, offering visitors a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic heritage of medieval Sri Lanka.

Gal Vihara Buddha Statue

The Gal Vihara in Polonnaruwa is a magnificent rock temple featuring four colossal Buddha statues carved from a single granite rock. These statues—seated, standing, and reclining—showcase exquisite craftsmanship and deep spiritual expression. Dating back to the 12th century, Gal Vihara is a revered symbol of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage and one of the country’s most iconic archaeological treasures.