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Town in North Central Province, Sri Lanka
Photo: Bernard Gagnon, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Polonnaruwa is a city in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka.
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A massive rock-cut statue of a Buddhist king, Parakrama Bahu.
Ruins of a monastery built by King Parakramabahu the great (1153-1186 A.D.). Its original name is unknown. According to a stone inscription found at the site, it has been renovated by a consort of King Parakramabahu. The peculiar feature of the monastery is the circular brick structure located in the lower terrace.
Vijayanta Pasada
The ruins of the grand palace of King Parakramabahu
Siva Devale
Stone Book
A 54m tall dagaba in excellent condition, the largest one in Polonnaruwa and 4th largest in the whole country! Dates back to King Nissanka Malla (1187 - 1196).
The Glory of Sri Lanka
The White Monastery
900 year old unrestored dagaba, with original lime plaster still in perfect condition, giving it a brilliant white appearance.
ගල් විහාරය
800 year old rock temple, with 4 Buddha images carved into a rock face
Local joint offering a tasty veg curry buffet for 350 rupees.
Good value, as the rooms were built in 2017 and are very clean, bathroom is huge, owner is nice and the food is excellent as well.
Also run by CHC but cheaper and the location is pretty nice as well. Rooms are relatively new but check the room before you check into it.
Run by the Ceylon Hotels Corporation. Nice location on the Parakrama Samudra. Rooms are relatively new but ask to see the room first.
Modern living conditions in a tropical setting and nestled alongside the Giritale Tank.
Thidas Arana Lake
At the end of a peninsula about 4 km from the ruins (an easy cycle), this resort has sweeping views over the lake, where elephants often roam. Also good staff and restaurant.
By plane
By car
A private transfer will cost between SLR 21,000-30,000. Ask at your hotel or try this website.
By train
By bus
From Colombo - Buses also leave from Colombo Fort but from a slightly different location. Take the intercity to Polonnaruwa.
Bicycles are the best way to get around. Most guest houses will rent out bikes.
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