Polonnaruwa is a historic city and a premier archaeological site in Sri Lanka. Elevated to capital status following the fall of Anuradhapura, it represents an essential stop on the renowned Cultural Triangle. Beyond its rich architectural heritage—which earned it UNESCO World Heritage status in 1982—the city served as the filming location for Disney's "Monkey Kingdom" in 2015. A visit to Polonnaruwa promises magnificent explorations through its evocative ruins.

History

After conquering Anuradhapura in the late 10th century, the Cholas established themselves at Polonnaruwa and made it their capital. The city's more strategic location offered better protection against potential Sinhalese uprisings. Though nearly a millennium old, Polonnaruwa remains relatively young compared to other settlements like Anuradhapura.

By the 12th century, Polonnaruwa gradually faded into obscurity. Over time, tropical jungle reclaimed the site, and it vanished until its rediscovery in the 19th century. After lying buried beneath dense vegetation for nearly seven centuries, this magnificent city emerged from the shadows. In 1982, it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Today

Following nearly seven centuries of obscurity, Polonnaruwa is now once again open to visitors eager to explore the remains of one of Sri Lanka's greatest cities. Spanning roughly 5 km, the site overflows with wonders waiting to be discovered. It's advisable to begin with Polonnaruwa's museum, which offers a valuable overview of the city. Though few artifacts are displayed, it features scale models of buildings that help visitors envision the city's original architecture.

The first sites to visit lie near the museum. This cluster comprises three buildings: the Royal Palace (Vejayanta Pasada), originally standing seven stories with over a thousand rooms; the Royal Baths (Kumara Pokuna), which impress with their grandeur; and the Council Chamber of Parakrama Bahu, easily recognizable by its forest of vertical columns.

Continuing north, about 500 meters ahead, you'll find a temple dedicated to Shiva on your left. Proceeding further, you'll reach the celebrated Tooth Relic Terrace, comprising several structures including the Vatadage, a circular sanctuary built in the 7th century, and the Hatadage directly opposite, which once housed a tooth relic of Buddha.

Moving further north, you'll discover the Lankatilaka Vihara, a Buddhist temple constructed atop an enormous rock and featuring a large Buddha statue. Beyond lies the Tivanka Image House, a building whose walls are richly adorned with vibrant frescoes.

When to Visit?

The ideal season to visit Polonnaruwa is spring and summer, from February to September.

If departing from Colombo, the best route is by train to Anuradhapura, then by bus to Polonnaruwa.

If traveling from Sigiriya (another Cultural Triangle destination), take the bus along the main road to the Sinamaluwa intersection (approximately 30 minutes), then continue by bus to Polonnaruwa.

What to See and Do?

Visit:

• Polonnaruwa Museum
• The Royal Palace (Vejayanta Pasada)
• The Royal Baths (Kumara Pokuna)
• The Council Chamber of Parakrama Bahu
• Temple dedicated to Shiva
• The Tooth Relic Terrace (Vatadage and Hatadage)
• Lankatilaka Vihara
• The Tivanka Image House

Practical Tips

• Wear flip-flops or sandals for your visit, as you'll spend considerable time at religious sites where footwear must be removed.
• The city can be explored in half a day. However, given its vast expanse, traveling by bicycle or tuk-tuk is preferable.