The Polonnaruwa Ancient City

Polonnaruwa Ancient City

Polonnaruwa ancient city, is a world heritage site located in Thamankaduwa Divisional Secretariat Division in Polonnaruwa District, North Central Province. Polonnaruwa is an ancient city in Sri Lanka, once a thriving kingdom and a significant religious center.  Polonnaruwais the main town of the current district of Polonnaruwa,located in the plains of the Mahaweli valley, 216 km from Colombo in the Polonnaruwa district of the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. The size of Polonnaruwa ancient city is nearly 122 hectares. Polonnaruwa became the capital of Sri Lanka after the fall of Anuradhapura Kingdom. During the Polonnaruwa ancient kingdom era, the foreign invaders managed to destroy Anuradhapura and even deprive the Sinhalese Royal Family of their statehood. Polonnaruwa served as the capital city of Sri Lanka for a relatively brief period, just two centuries, compared to Anuradhapura’s nearly five centuries. What is particularly astonishing is how the ruins of Polonnaruwa ancient kingdom contrast sharply with the devastation of Anuradhapura. Some believe that the village name Polonnaruwa originates from the Sanskrit name Pulasti Nagara. Various names like “Kadavurnuwara,” “Rajarata Pura”, “Pullanari”,” Vijayarajapuram”, “Kalingarajapuram” have been used for Polonnaruwa in different sources found within Polonnaruwa archeological wonders. 

Polonnaruwa was used as a safe house by several kings during the Anuradhapura kingdom.
●    Was the capital of Ceylon from 1017 to 1215 AD.
●    In 1017 AD, Choline was the center of its administration.
●    In 1070 AD, King Jayabahu defeated the Cholains and established his capital here.
●    Rulers like Vijayabahu I, Parakramabahu I and Keerthi Sri Nishankamalla are the top rulers of Polonnaruwa.
●    Queen Leelavati, Queen Kalyanavati etc. have also ruled here.
●    After the invasion by Kalinga Magha in 1215 AD, the Polonnaruwa Kingdom faced a decline in it’s political, social,economic, and cultural aspects.

The archaeological wonders of the Polonnaruwa ancient city seen today perfectly reflect the excellence and education of the Polonnaruwa ancient civilization. Polonnaruwa was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 for its archaeological significance and ancient technological advancements seen in historical sites. 

Cultural highlights of Polonnaruwa Ancient City

  1. Inner City
  2. Outer City
  3. The northern part of the city
  4. The southern part of the city
  5. Palace of King Nishshanka Malla
  6. Parakrama Samudraya

1) Inner City

The area consists of the Polonnaruwa royal palace.

  • Vaijayanthi Prasadaya
  • “Parakramabahu” Raja Sabhaa
  • “Kumaara” Pond

Vaijayanthi Prasadaya

 Vaijayanthi Prasadaya in Polonnaruwa served as the palace of King Maha Parakramabahu, who reigned from 1153-1186 AD, during the Polonnaruwa ancient civilization. According to history, only the ruins of 55 rooms remain in this structure, which consisted of a thousand rooms. The square pyramidal structure is 53 feet high. In the middle of the seven storeys, there are statues of deities in the arch-shaped circle. It has been built on an area of 8.6 hectares, surrounded by walls made of bricks. From the southeast corner of this building, you can see the Royal Pond, known as Kumara Pond.

             Today, a lot of bricks are missing from this great design. Today we can see only a few ancient ruins of the Polonnaruwa royal palace, the royal court accompanying buildings in this huge and wonderful building, which consists of seven floors.

Parakaramabahu Raja sabha

This is the “Raja Sabha Mandapa (facility made for the royal conferences)” built by King Parakramabahu (1153-1186 AD) at Polonnaruwa. During the Polonnaruwa era of ancient Ceylon, this building was called “Rajavaishaybhujanga Mandapam”. This building is 75 feet in length, 33 feet in width, and 11 feet in height, and it has been completed with beautiful stone carvings using the highest quality of ancient architecture and techniques that express the proud Polonnaruwa ancient architecture.

Kumara Pond

The stone pond built for the bathing of royals in Nandana Garden, which was the royal garden of King Parakramabahu, is called Kumara Pond. 44 feet long and 38 feet wide, it is unique to use water showers for bathing.This demonstrates that a superb ancient architecture system existed in both ancient Ceylon and the Polonnaruwa ancient city.

2) Outer City

  • Shiva Devalaya No. 1
  • Pabalu Vehera
  • Shiva Devalaya No. 4
  • Dalada Maluwa
    • Heta dage
    • Ata dage
    • Vatadage
    • Thuparama Image House
    • Reclining Buddha Image House
    • Nishshanka Latha Mandapaya
    • Bodhigaraya
    • Galpotha&Velaikara Inscriptions
    • A seven storied building

Shiva Devalaya No.1

The ancient name and the builder of this Shiva Devalaya are uncertain. However, due to the architectural wonders that can be seen in Polonnaruwa ancient city, it is considered that this structure was built around the 13th century.

The temple is located between the Royal inner city and Dalada Maluwa. This Shiva Devalaya is a temple devoted to the Hindu God Shiva. There are two of them: Shiva Devalaya no.1 and Shiva Devalaya No.2. People adore them for their incredible craftsmanship, in which the stones fit together seamlessly.

Pabalu Vehera

This is a two-storied stupa made by King Parakramabahu’s queen Rupawathi. Pabalu Vehera is a Buddhist sanctuary, named for the glass pearls discovered during excavation. It suffered multiple damages, including the stupas upper and central area, possibly due to invasions and looting. Unique with nine sanctuaries ( usually floor ), housing Buddha statues in various poses, including one with a Buddha footprint and another with an elongated Buddha.

Shiva devalaya/kovil No. 4

The “Shiva kovil” is believed to have been constructed either during the reign of the South Indian Chola invaders in Polonnaruwa (1017-1070) or in the 13th century. Today only the stone pillars of the temple are left, along with a well-preserved moonstone adorned with lotus petals.

Dalada Maluwa

After the Anuradhapura Kingdom fell into Solin in 1017 from the Chola invasion, Polonnaruwa ancient kingdomdeveloped as capital. King Vijayabahu saved the country from Chola rule and brought the Buddha’s tooth relic and Patra relic to Polonnaruwa. He built the Dalada palace here and buried the relics here. The main temple complex designed by him is Dalada Maluwa in Polonnaruwa. During the reign of Maha Parakramabahu, this was improved and lakes, temples, royal palaces etc. Also, Dalada maluwa was further developed during the time of King Nishshankamalla. Dalada Maluwa consisted of several elements.

Hatadage

Hetadage is a building which can observe at Polonnaruwa ancient city that consisting of an entrance hall and an inner chamber made of carved stone walls, on a plot of land about 120 feet long and 90 feet wide. It consisted of two floors. The upper floor may have been made of wood and may have housed the tooth relic, Patra relic and other relics. It seems that the lower floor was used as a Buddhist temple. There are three Buddha statues in this house.  There are four beautiful five-foot windows on the four sides. To the north, there is a beautiful portal pavilion.

Mr. Chandra Wickrama Gamage said that this is a design of King Parakramabahu and King Nishshankamalla repaired it. The walls are decorated with beautiful carvings and inscriptions in praise of King Nishshankamalla. It is said that the building was completed within sixty hours. Hence, this is also used as Hatadage. It is also said that there are sixty names of relics buried here. It is special that the image of a lion is seen in the moonstone of this building. Lion and taurus images are not found in other moonstones of this era of ancient Ceylon.

Atadage

Atadage Dalada Maligawa, built by King Vijayabahu I, houses the tooth relic of Buddha on the second floor, likely made of wood, accessible via a staircase. The building stands on 54 stone pillars, with remnants of the staircase’s stone steps leading to the upper chamber. Today, only the center Buddha statue at the bottom remains intact.

The Atadage Dalada Maligawa is believed to be the only surviving building from King Vijayabahu I’s time. “Ata ” in Atadage means eight. It could be because the building housed eight relics, including the main tooth relic, or because it was built in eight days. There are signs it was built quickly, possibly by using parts from other buildings of the Anuradhapura era, like the moonstone brought from Anuradhapura.

Vatadage

Vatadage is a significant and stunning structure situated in the Dalada Maluwa of Polonnaruwa ancient city. Initially constructed before King Nissanka Malla’s reign, it was later reconstructed by the same king. This circular building boasts a diameter of 120 feet and stands at a height of 4 feet, 6 inches from the ground. Adorned with intricately carved steps leading in from all four directions, the Vatadage showcases exquisite details such as moonstones, guard stones, dragon fences, and dwarves.  In the middle stands a round stupa surrounded by four Buddha statues, each facing a different direction. There used to be two rows of stone pillars forming a roof, but only one row is left now. Along the outer circle, there’s a low wall adorned with floral patterns, about 2 feet 9 inches tall. The brick wall between the pillars looks sturdy and intact. The Buddha statues here have distinctive features, with unique details in the head and robe not seen elsewhere. The moonstone also does not have the image of a bull found in the moonstones of the Anuradhapura period. It may be because the image of Taurus in Hinduism is considered a deity. The image of Taurus is carved on the guard stone nearby.

Thuparama Image House

Thuparama Image House, located in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, is an ancient Buddhist temple whose ancient name is commonly referred to as Thuparamaya. The identity of its creator is uncertain, but it’s believed to have been built by either Minister Mahinda, a minister of King Parakramabahu, or the first King Vijayabahu. Among the buildings in Polonnaruwa’s old town, Thuparama Image House is regarded as the most well-preserved.

The construction style of Thuparama Image House, with brick side walls and roof without wood, aligns with the (Gedige) tradition. Additionally, the Prathimas and Vimanas on the outer walls display South Indian architectural influences. Evidence suggests there was once a large, seated Buddha image in the Prathima house, with only its large seat remaining visible today within the ancient ruins.

Reclining Buddha Image House

It is the largest of the Polonnaruwa ancient statues. This statue has a very noble expression on its face. The statue is 46 feet long. Among the opinions about the statue, it is said that it is the bench of “Parinirvana (the death of Lord Buddha),”. In terms of stylistic features, it is like the big sitting statue. Round faces, robe decorations with parallel lines are also seen here. Depicting the “Parinirvana” of the Buddha, the statue shows him lying on his right side, with his right arm supporting its head on a bolster, while the statue’s left arm rests along his body and thigh. Notably, the palm of the right hand and the soles of the feet feature a single lotus flower carved on them, adding symbolic depth to the artwork. Charles Godakumbure’s observation about the quality of the carving on the bolster, making it resemble a cotton-stuffed pillow, highlights the exceptional craftsmanship of the sculpture. The slight withdrawal of the upper foot, specifically the left foot, symbolizes the Buddha’s attainment of “Parinirvana,” distinguishing it from a mere depiction of lying down. Unlike other images at the site, the reclining Buddha doesn’t have a decorated pedestal; instead, it rests on leveled bare rock, emphasizing simplicity and natural integration with its surroundings. The presence of sockets and remnants of stone columns behind the image suggests that it was once housed in a structure with a wooden roof, providing further insights into its historical context and original presentation.

Nishshanka Latha Mandapaya

The Nishshanka Latha Mandapaya is a remarkable stone structure adorned with intricately carved lotus bud motifs on its pillars built in Polonnaruwa Ancient City. It holds historical significance as the place where King Nishankamalla listened to “Pirith” chantings, as confirmed by inscriptions found on the pillars. Surrounding the mandapam is a stone balustrade, mimicking the appearance of a steel one, with dimensions measuring 4.3 feet east to west and 28.6 feet north to south. Additionally, there’s a carved stone platform within this enclosure.  The Nishshanka Latha Mandapaya, believed to have been built by King “Nishankamallamalla”, is 34 feet eight inches long and 28 feet eight inches wide. Each pillar stands 8.4 feet high, and there are carvings of pilgrims around the central dagoba. It’s thought to have been used for displaying Buddha’s sacred tooth.

Galpotha (stone book) and Vellaikara Inscriptions

The Stone Book Inscription in the Dalada Maluwa of the Polonnaruwa ancient city is considered as the largest stone inscription in the country. It was commissioned by King Nishanka Malla (1187-1196) during the Polonnaru period.  The inscription measures about 8.2 meters in length and 1.4 meters in width, with a thickness of approximately 2 feet. It contains around 4300 characters spread across 72 lines.Unfortunately, the integrity of the inscription has been jeopardized. It also depicts Goddess Gaja Lakshmi as a female figure surrounded by two elephants carved on the side. The Vellaikara Inscription is situated adjacent to the Atadage in Polonnaruwa.

Seven Storied Building

This was constructed with seven stories in an unusual square shape, situated in Dalada Maluwa of Polonnaruwa historical sites. Presently, the seventh floor is damaged, allowing visibility up to that level. One side features a set of stairs for access to the building, while the arched sections are adorned with carvings of deities. The exact purpose of the seven-story building gifted with this Polonnaruwa ancient architecture has not been definitively determined. However, due to its location in the Dalada Maluwa, it is speculated that it may have been utilized for some Buddhist-related function.

3) The Northern Part of the Polonnaruwa Ancient City

  • Menik Vehera Monastery Complex.
  • Bodhi-Tree Shrine (Bodhigara).
  • Rankoth Vehera
  • AlahanaPirivena
  • Gal Viharaya (Uttararamaya)
  • Hindu temples
  • Ancient Hospitals

Menik Vehera Monastery Complex

A small dagoba was built on a platform made of Manik Vehera bricks in Polonnaruwa historical sites. To enter the temple courtyard, one has to climb the stairs made of black stone. Two stones are seen on either side of the stairs. Also decorated around the square platform are carved clay panels with different lions.  Also, after archeological preservation, the old brick and reliquary of the dagoba. The dagoba has been preserved in such a way that you can see the brick and reliquary of the old dagoda.

Bodhi-Tree shrine (Bodhigara)

Bodhigara” means the house built for Bodhi (Bodhi Tree) in Polonnaruwa historical sites. It is very clear that Menik Vehera shrine was built on two occasions. Its first instance belongs to the 8th century AD. Scholars point out that the Stupa in the Manik Vehera shrine is a rare architectural design built on a raised wall with a Stupa shaped like a small flower bud in the middle. The wall seen here covers three sacred places.They are the statue (statuary), the temple and the abodes built for the monks. This is also one of the shows of the great Polonnaruwa ancient architecture.

Rankoth Vehera

Rankoth Vehera is an ancient stupa in Polonnaruwa ancient city, built by King Nishanka Malla in the late 12th century with their reputed architecture. It follows the architectural tradition of the Anuradhapura Maha Vihara Stupa and bears resemblance to the Anuradhapura Ruwanwelisaya. Initially referred to as “Ruwanweli” in inscriptions, it is now known as Rankoth Vehera. The Rankoth Vehera in Polonnaruwa is the island’s fourth largest stupa, featuring a base diameter of approximately 550 feet and a height of about 108 feet. While the upper part has been altered through later renovations, its original height is estimated to have been around 200 feet. The stupa comprises four “Wahalkadas (Doors)”

Alahana Pirivena

Established by King Maha Parakramabahu (AD 1153-1186), this Pirivena appears to be located on an ancient cremation ground, as indicated by its name. Archaeological excavations conducted across the Polonnaruwa area have confirmed this. Additionally, some structures within the Pirivena are believed to have been constructed on the cremation sites of Stupas Sanghanayakas or royals under the great ancient architecture of the Polonnaruwa era. A hillock located in a hillock has been converted into a monastery according to a flower plan. On the two central upper floors, there are the:

  • Baddha Seema Prasadaya
  • Kirivehera
  • Lankathilaka Statue
  • Stupa Godali (Cremation Stupa)

 

On the lower floors, you’ll find monk hospital areas, ponds, and hundreds of residential monk cottages. Archaeological excavations around this Polonnaruwa area have confirmed that this building is an old hospital. A stone medicine boat is still visible in one of the chambers, which was dipped in medicinal oil and used to treat the patient. Many medical equipment including surgical equipment used at that time have been found in the excavations at this place as ruins. Built in the 12th century, this hospital has largely followed the original model of the Mihintale Hospital built in the 8th century. The two main parts of the hospital, the residential part and the treatment part, are built together and there is an open courtyard in the middle of these two parts. This is a wonderful display of Polonnaruwa ancient civilization.

Gal Viharaya (Uththararamaya)

Gal Vihara, a rock temple of Buddha located in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Polonnaruwa in northern Sri Lanka, was originally known as Uttara Rama. It features four rock statues portraying different figures of Buddha: a seated Buddha on a lotus, a smaller seated figure, a standing figure, and a reclining figure. Parakramabahu is credited as its founder, completing the monument in the 12th century. Controversy surrounds the standing figure, with some historians suggesting it represents Ananda rather than Buddha. Gal Vihara stands out among the hundred temples constructed by Parakramabahu throughout Sri Lanka.

The temple comprises three caves: Vijjadhara Guha (cave of the spirits of knowledge), Nipanna Patima Guha (cave of the sleeping statue), and Nissina Patima Lena (cave of the seated statue). Initially adorned with gold paint, the statues were later plundered by hunters.

Hindu Temples

Polonnaruwa had been a Buddhist city and it harbors a large number of Buddhist temples, Stupas, dagobas, and Buddha statues such as Gal Vihara (Polonnaruwa Gal Vihara). Same time, travelers can witness many temples with Hindu backgrounds, which is a clear sign that Hindu influence was very evident in Polonnaruwa by the 10th century AD. In this article, we discuss some popular Hindu shrines in Polonnaruwa because they are also considered important places to visit in Polonnaruwa. These Hindu shrines are spread over the entire ancient city, except in the Polonnaruwa quadrangle, however, most of them are discovered near the main entrance.

  • Shrine of “Kali”
  • Shrine of “Shiva”

Ancient Hospital Complex

The ruins of an Ancient Hospital Complex Have been discovered within the grounds of Polonnaruwa ancient kingdom in the Polonnaruwa District. Excavations conducted as part of the Cultural Triangle project in 1982/3 confirmed that the ancient ruins located within the AlahanaPirivena premises are indeed the remnants of an ancient hospital complex dating back to the 12th century. This hospital’s construction is commonly attributed to King Parakramabahu I (1153-1186 A.D.). Numerous surgical and medical instruments, including probes, forceps, scissors, scalpels, lancets, herb grinding stones, a micro-balance, a spoon, and storage jars of Chinese celadon, have been unearthed at this site during excavations. Some of these artifacts are currently on display at the Colombo National Museum. If you are an artifact lover, and have interest in anthropology, this is a one you don’t need to miss. Because these ruins show the hidden mysteries of the ancient world.

4) Southern Part of the Polonnaruwa Ancient City

  • Pothgul Vehera
  • Parakramabahu Statue

Pothgul Vehera

The circular structure situated on a raised platform in front of the statues of Pothgul Vehera, Parakramabahu, and Pulasthi in the Polonnaruwa Kingdom is known as Pothgul Vihara. Constructed entirely in the tradition of brick masonry, this two-storied building is encircled by a circular wall, with the Pothgul Vehera positioned on the upper floor.ThePothgul Vihara features a stunning stone entrance and is adorned with four small stupas at the corners of the maluwa. The courtyard below is bordered by monks’ chambers. Through analysis of its location, doorway characteristics, interior paintings, and inscriptions, it has been determined that this temple was indeed constructed by King Parakramabahu.

Parakaramabahu Raja sabha

The exquisitely carved statue, standing at a height of 11 1⁄2 feet (3.5 meters) and sculpted into a semi-circular rock, is commonly referred to as the Parakramabahu Statue, believed by many to depict King Parakramabahu (1153-1186). However, there is another belief suggesting that it might represent an Indian high priest, possibly “Pulasthi.” The statue’s characteristics, including the long beard, mustache, hair, clothing, and a slightly enlarged stomach, are not typical of what one would expect from a depiction of a great king.

Indeed, irrespective of its subject, the statue is a remarkable testament to the exceptional skill and craftsmanship of the rock carving engineers of that era. Its beauty and uniqueness highlight the mastery and artistry of ancient sculptors.

5. Palace of King Nishshanka Malla

The remains of the palace of Nissanka Malla, along with the Audience Hall of King Nissanka Malla, are situated behind the present Polonnaruwa Rest House. It is likely that this palace complex was primarily constructed with bricks during the reign of King Nissanka Malla (1187-1196), resulting in only a small portion of it surviving today. Historians speculate that the palace would have been a two-story structure, with the upper floor likely made of wood.

6. Parakrama Samudra

If you are interested in eastern architectural wonders, this is a must-see location right away in Polonnaruwa ancientarchitecture. The Parakrama Samudra, constructed during the 12th century under the reign of King Parakramabahu, stands as a remarkable achievement of ancient engineering in ancient Ceyloncompared to other reservoirs made in ancient Ceylon. In the dry and arid lands of Polonnaruwa, where Ceylon experiences two seasons of monsoon rain, the reservoir was a vital project aimed at addressing water scarcity and ensuring the well-being of the population. TheParakrama Samudra, also known as the “Sea of Parakrama,” was originally built as an irrigation reservoir to provide water for the extensive paddy fields in the ancient kingdom. Even today, it continues to supply water to over 18,000 acres of neighboring cultivations. However, the grandeur of the original reservoir has been diminished due to the reconstruction of the artificial lake, which resulted in the isolation of two tributary rivers that used to feed it: the Kalahagala River and the Bhu River. As a result, the present lake is only replenished by the Thopa River, Eramudu River, and the Dumbuthulu River. There is a reason why it is dubbed the “Sea of Parakrama”. That must be witnessed with your naked sight from this Polonnaruwa ancient civilization.

Other places that you can visit in Polonnaruwa Historical City

  • Minneriya National Park
  • Manampitiya Bridge
  • Angammedilla National Park
  • Giritale Wewa
  • Mavil Aru Ancit
  • Lotus Pond
  • Deepa Uyana
  • Archaeological Museum Complex
  • WildLife Museum
  • Maduru Oya Reservoir Project

Distance to Polonnaruwa historical sites

  • Colombo to Polonnaruwa- 231 KM
  • Kandy to Polonnaruwa- 137 KM
  • Anuradhapura to Kandy- 109 KM

Transportation to Polonnaruwa historical landmarks

By taxi

The direct drive from Colombo International Airport to Polonnaruwa is approximately 140 miles (225 kilometers), with an expected drive time of around three and a half hours. 

By bus

The most convenient way to get from Colombo (Pettah bus station) to Polonnaruwa historical landmarks is by bus, which takes approximately 5 hours. The government and commercial sector provide both standard and air-conditioned intercity public transit.

By train

The most reasonable and inexpensive mode of transportation to Polonnaruwa Ancient City. This trek takes approximately 5 hours. This train ride is a comfortable method to travel without becoming overly weary. But it takes time.

Travel Guide to Polonnaruwa Ancient City

To enter Buddhist temples and holy sites, it’s customary to cover your legs, typically by wearing clothing that extends past the knees. Additionally, removing your shoes is often required as a sign of respect before entering. If you’re wearing shorts and plan to visit temple interiors, it’s advisable to bring a wrap-around cloth to cover your legs appropriately.

Bicycle hire services are available in and around Polonnaruwa, including at the entrance to the historical site. Your hotel should be able to assist you in organizing bicycle rentals for your exploration of the area.

In addition to wearing lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and a hat, consider seeking shade during the hottest parts of the day, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and using sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays.

When traveling, you may come across elderly people selling king coconuts by the road. Don’t miss experiencing their lives in this great ancient landmark while sipping a magnificent natural beverage. It’s healthy and tasty!

Summary

Polonnaruwa, the second largest city in the North Central Province, is renowned for its cleanliness and beauty, earning it the reputation of being one of the most picturesque ancient cities on the island. Navanagara (New Town), situated approximately 6 km from the city center and the highway, various government institutions, including the Polonnaruwa Royal Central College, the largest school in the district. Polonnaruwa is well-known for its “Parakrama Samudra” and the great iconic statue facing the massive tank said to be of “Pulasthi Rishi”, the father of great ancient king “Raavana”. Some say it’s King Parakramabahus statue. That’s contradictory! Tourist accommodations, and friendly locals, making it a popular destination for both locals and foreigners. If you come to visit Sri Lanka, don’t miss this cultural heritage of Polonnaruwa!

(Cover Image Credit goes to the respective owners)