Polonnaruwa Wonders: A Journey Through Sri Lanka’s Ancient Kingdom

Polonnaruwa is like stepping into the pages of an old storybook, one where time has paused and left behind a world of ancient kings, grand palaces, and quiet stone guardians. As Sri Lanka’s second-oldest kingdom, Polonnaruwa isn’t just a historical site — it’s a peaceful and powerful place that invites you to wander, wonder, and take it slow.

Here are five reasons to take that journey back in time:

Walk Among Timeless Ruins

Start your day exploring the Royal Palace complex, where towering brick walls and crumbling stairways whisper tales of long-lost royalty. The Sacred Quadrangle nearby is home to perfectly carved temples and statues that have stood the test of time. It’s not hard to imagine robed monks walking those same paths centuries ago.

Meet the Gal Vihara Buddha Statues

One of the most awe-inspiring sights and iconic places to visit in Polonnaruwa is the Gal Vihara—four massive Buddha statues carved into a single granite rock face. The standing figure, with its arms folded and eyes gently lowered, holds a mysterious, quiet strength. Whether you’re religious or not, it’s a moment that stays with you.

Stay by the Parakrama Samudra

To truly soak in the charm of Polonnaruwa, spend a night at Hotel Sudu Araliya, beautifully placed on the banks of the Parakrama Reservoir. Built by King Parakramabahu, this man-made reservoir is more like a calm sea than a lake. The views are serene and wide, with the water catching the light as birds sweep across the sky. It’s a perfect spot to rest after a day of exploring, with the bonus of being close to the ruins.

Taste the Flavours of the Kingdom

Polonnaruwa isn’t just about stone and history—it’s also about warm, homely food. Try rice and curry made with local vegetables, freshwater fish from the reservoir, and crispy snacks from roadside stalls. There’s comforting honesty in every bite.

Cycle Through the Ancient City

One of the best ways to explore Polonnaruwa is on two wheels. Rent a bicycle and ride through the old city, where tree-lined paths connect temples, stupas, and crumbling royal halls. The area is flat and easy to navigate, with monkeys darting across your path and the occasional peacock showing off in the distance. With the wind in your face and centuries of history around every turn, it’s both peaceful and exciting—like discovering a secret that’s been waiting just for you.