Posted on July 26, 2025 at 07:38 PM in General by Administrator
Polonnaruwa is a beautiful tribute to the royal history of Sri Lanka in which the huge ruins, holy monuments, and advanced engineering present the splendor of an ancient kingdom that existed in the ancient time. Being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Polonnaruwa provides the visitor with a very interesting experience in the form of historic, art and cultural trip.
Polonnaruwa fell into the background, and became the capital of the island when Anuradhapura was in decline. The city grew to be a seat of government, religion and irrigation under the rule of the visionary rulers, the most notable of whom was King Parakramabahu I. His notorious observation of the fact that not even a drop of rainfall should go to the sea without benefiting man is what gave rise to the establishment of huge reservoirs like magnificent Parakrama Samudra which is still in use today.
A walk in Polonnaruwa is the experience of entering a living museum. Ruins of ancient architecture abound in the ancient city presenting a brilliant exhibition of architectural brilliance of the times. Some of the most significant attractions include the Royal Palace which served as a multi-storied complex; the Audience Hall, which is decorated with some of the finest stone carvings and finally, the sacred Quadrangle that housed some of the most important religious buildings in the kingdom.
The Gal Vihara is one of the most popular landmarks of Polonnaruwa where four gigantic statues of Buddhas are hewn out of one granite block. These are the calm and composed figures-in-seated-standing-reclining Buddha, are regarded to be works of art in ancient Sri Lankan sculpture; bestowing supreme spiritual expression and artistic masterpieces.
Religion was one of the main focus of the city, and both Buddhist and Hindu influence became the elements of the cultural environment. The city of Polonnaruwa was a key religious hub, with magnificent stupas like Rankoth Vehera and Kiri Vehera and monastic complex warehouses like Alahana Pirivena.
Polonnaruwa in addition to its historical monuments does provide a serene environment amidst foliage and wildlife. The old city can be most visited by bicycle where the visitors can take time to appreciate the ruins besides enjoying lakes, forests and grazing elephants within the vicinity.
Polonnaruwa is not merely an archeological site but the representation of the golden age of Sri Lanka. This tour to this ancient kingdom gives greater insight into the history of the island, its innovativeness, and spirituality. A trip to the Polonnaruwa is something one cannot forget as even now the remnants of royal grandeur and devotional offerings remain echoing in the ruins.
