Unveiling the Charm of Polonnaruwa: Top Historical Sites to Visit
After the downfall of the Anuradhapura Kingdom, Polonnaruwa was crowned as the second most ancient kingdom in Sri Lanka, which continues to boast its rich heritage and long history. This article aims to highlight a few must-visit places if you’re planning to add Polonnaruwa to your Sri Lankan vacation itinerary.
The city of Polonnaruwa
Located in the heart of the North Central Province, Polonnaruwa City is home to ancient reservoirs, ruins of ancient kingdoms, vast plantations, archaeological treasures, and temples that paint a vibrant picture of the city’s illustrious past. If you’re planning on spending a few days here, you can easily find many hotels in Polonnaruwa, close to all the attractions as well as the heart of the city like Hotel Sudu Araliya.
Parakrama Samudraya
Directly translated as the Sea of Parakrama, this massive reservoir is an ancient marvel, reported to have been built in the 12th century during the reign of King Parakramabahu I. This artificial lake is still the prime irrigation system for all the agricultural lands surrounding the city. You can watch the sunset or take a relaxing walk along the banks of the Samudraya
Rankoth Viharaya
Once you venture into the ancient city, you will come across this marvellous structure. Dating back to the 12th century, this temple site was said to be used as a place of meditation and prayer for Buddhist monks and disciples. The name Rankoth Viharaya directly translates to “Golden Pinnacle Temple”, which alludes to the ancient glamour and charm these hallowed grounds once exuded.
Lankathilaka Temple
Famous for its distinctive architecture and the intricate paintings and carvings that decorate the inner chambers, the Lankathilaka Temple is one of the most important places to visit if you want to learn in-depth about the ancient culture and history of Sri Lanka. The temple was built during the time of King Parakramabahu the Great and is one of the best examples of early art during that time.