Polonnaruwa

Packed with archaeological treasures including ancient sculptures, shrines, temples, palaces and ruins, the ancient city of Polonnaruwa is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The second oldest capital of Sri Lanka, established after the destruction of the Anuradhapura Kingdom in 993, the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa reigned from 1070 until 1232. The highly successful reign was characterised by engineering and technological innovation which led to rice cultivation at enormous scale, Sri Lanka’s prominence as the Granary of the Orient as well as advances in healthcare and surgery.

Today you can explore the royal palace of King Parakramabahu I of which impressive walls, lion sculptures, intricate carvings and royal swimming pool remain well persevered; Shiva Devale II, the oldest Hindu temple in the area, tucked away in a forest clearing; the large stupa of Rankot Viharaya; the 55ft high Buddha statue in Lankatilaka; and so much more.