Polonnaruwa srilanka
Polonnaruwa is the second of the ancient cities of Sri Lanka, and its ruins give visitors a true taste of the nation’s past times. Located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, this is one of the many archaeological sites on the island that has been designated as a World Heritage site which has many architectural marvels that were built during the country’s golden period, which has been amazingly preserved. Believed to have been constructed between the 10th and the 13th centuries, the ruins encompass palaces, monasteries, Buddhist and Hindu temple, dagobas and many exquisite statues and all of this is in the back drop of the Parakrama Samudra Tank.
The third Kingdom of Sri Lanka was Polonnaruwa which was made the capital city in 993 AD following the invasion of South Indian Chola who overran Anuradhapura. The Cholas maintained their dominance for in excess of 7/ decades until a Sinhalese King Vijayabahu I Eluded them in 1073, However maintained Polonnaruwa as the royal city. With time new kings rose to power and adorned the city more; particularly two of them, Parakramabahu I and Nissankamalla. During the 11th century Polonnaruwa continued to be the royal city for over 200 years before South Indian invasions precluded its role as the capital and shifted the city to a more secure site near the current city of Colombo.
What are the main attractions in Polonnaruwa?
Royal Palace: A grand structure with remnants of the Council Chamber, Audience Hall, and Royal Baths.
Sacred Quadrangle: Features the Vatadage, a circular relic house with four stunning stone Buddhas.
Dagobas: Such as Rankot Vihara, Menik Vihara, Pabalu Vehera, and Kiri Vihara.
Lankatilaka Shrine: A cathedral-like structure with a massive headless Buddha statue.
Gal Vihara: Houses four remarkable Buddha statues carved from a single granite slab.
Shiva Devale No. 1: The oldest Hindu temple on the site, dating back to the Pandyan period.
Are there guides available at Polonnaruwa?
Yes, local guides are available for hire at the site entrance. They offer valuable insights into the history and significance of the ruins.
Is Polonnaruwa suitable for children?
Yes, local guides are available for hire at the site entrance. They offer valuable insights into the history and significance of the ruins.
When is the best time to visit Polonnaruwa?
Polonnaruwa can be visited year-round. However, the cooler morning hours are ideal for exploring. For a unique experience, visit Minneriya National Park between August and September to witness the annual elephant gathering.
Why Visit Polonnaruwa?
Polonnaruwa is indeed a repository of medieval architecture and art of Sri Lanka will forever remain one of the Great wonders of the World. Stretching from north to south for approximately 4 kilometres and boasting a well developed network of bicycle renting services, the park then becomes navigable mainly on bicycles. Here are some highlights you shouldn’t miss:Here are some highlights you shouldn’t miss:
Royal Palace: The building of this mansion is 31 meters in length, and the building was once thought to have seven stories The functional space of this mansion is still intact, including the Council Chamber, the Audience Hall where murals displaying carved elephants were discovered, and the Royal Baths.
Sacred Quadrangle: It has a Vatadage , a circular relic house and enamalTV , four gorgeous stone Buddhas are preserved.
Dagobas: Organized structures such as the red brick Rankot Vihara rising 55 meters in the air, Menik Vihara, the Pabalu Vehera, and the lime-plastered Kiri Vihara that was instated when Parakramabahu had one of his wives interred.
Lankatilaka Shrine: This cathedral-like structure, with walls rising to a height of 17 meters, is home to the Infinite Buddha which is a headless giant image carved out of an upper end wall.
Gal Vihara: This location is said to have four statues of the revered figure in Buddhist believe, which are carved on a single piece of granite and shaped in a remarkably artistic manner.
Shiva Devale No. 1: The remains of the oldest temple structure located at the site, this is almost a fully developed structure Primarily built in the Hindu style from the Pandyan period.
Wildlife at Polonnaruwa
These forms of primates include the grey langur, the purple-faced leaf monkey and the dominating macaque can easily be come across when you are in the ruins. Though monkey and particularly the one of Polonnaruwas was discovered in Disneys Monkey Kingdom, the sighting of wild animals is always a pleasure for the wildlife lovers.
Practical Information for Visitors
Tickets: Buy the ticket at the Museum before stepping into the precinct.
Bicycle Hire: You can either get them at the site or get them from your hotel.
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday (from 7 am to 5:30 pm). It is advised to come early in the morning or you will be affected by the hot sun.
Dress Code: A decent dress code should ensure that knees and shoulders are not exposed. Expect to leave shoes at the entrance as is the case with most religious places of worship.
Best Time to Visit: During the morning hours as the midday sun is very hot and tiring for the body.
When to Visit Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa is also open throughout the year. However, for a distinct experience, the best time to visit Minneriya National Park is from August to September is when elephants gather around the tank which is situated near the park.
Nearby Attractions
Do not fail to visit other nearby parks especially Minneriya and Kaudulla because these parks have a large number of elephants and other animals.
Polonnaruwa is certainly one of the most ambitious archeological sites of Sri Lanka as the medieval period of the island country is witnessed and explored here. The ancient city of Anuradhapura is distinguished by its numerous ruins and constructions that represents the fragments of human history and initiative, remarkable architectural achievements and the natural, almost monastic, beauty of the area making it an indispensable part of the Sri Lankan tour. With heavy historical and architectural attractions, Polonnaruwa will certainly not disappoint the lovers of history and the magnificent constructions.