Polonnaruwa, like several other places display the glory days of Sri Lanka’s history. Poḷonnaruwa is the main town of Polonnaruwa District in North Central Province, Sri Lanka. Polonnaruwa, like several other places display the glory days of Sri Lanka’s history. Kaduruwela area is the Polonnaruwa New Town and the other part of Polonnaruwa remains as the royal ancient city of the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa.
The second most ancient of Sri Lanka’s kingdoms, Polonnaruwa was first established by the Chola dynasty after their successful invasion of the country’s then capital, Anuradhapura, in the 10th century. The Ancient City of Polonnaruwa has been declared a World Heritage Site.
Currently the new Polonnaruwa is undergoing a major development project known as the “Awakening of Polonnaruwa” under the concept of President Maithripala Sirisena. It envisions the development of all sectors in Polonnaruwa including roads, electricity, agriculture, education, health and environment will be developed comprehensively.
Polonnaruwa have many historical sights to visit. Discover the best attractions in Polonnaruwa as follows
- Gal Vihara
- Quadrangle
- Lankatilaka
- Sigiriya
- Minneriya National Park
- Polonnaruwa Vatadage
- Parakrama Samudra
- Hatadage
- Nissanka Latha Mandapaya
- Gal Potha (Stone Book)
- Vejayanta Pasada
- Thivanka Image House
- Angammedilla National Park
- Kiri Vehera
- Siva Devale
- Pothgul Vihara Statue
- Manampitiya Bridge
- Manik Vehara
The above are some famous places mentioned at Polonnaruwa. Polonnaruwa contains religious shrines and monuments, so it’s important to dress appropriately. Shoulders and knees should be covered (men and women), and you will have to take your shoes off to enter the shrines so bring shoes that are easy to slip on and off. Today the ancient city of Polonnaruwa remains one of the best planned archaeological relic cities in the country, standing testimony to the discipline and greatness of the Kingdom’s first rulers. Its beauty was also used as a backdrop to filmed scenes for the Duran Duran music video Save a Prayer in 1982. The ancient city of Polonnaruwa has been declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO.
Near the ancient city, there is a small town with several hotels (especially for tourists) and some glossy shops, and places to fulfill day-to-day needs. There are government institutions in a newly built area called “new town,” about 6 km away from the town and the main road. The largest school in the district, Polonnaruwa Royal Central College is situated at new town.
Polonnaruwa is the second largest city in North Central Province, but it is known as one of the cleanest and more beautiful cities in the country. The green environment, amazing ancient constructions, Parakrama Samudra (a huge lake built in 1200), and attractive tourist hotels and hospitable people, attract tourists.
Another draw for tourists is the city’s population of toque macaques. The monkeys have been living in the ruins since human occupation and continue to thrive here long after the humans left. Polonnaruwa is an amazing place to visit to experience the historical sights.
