Sri Lanka’s second ancient capital, Polonnaruwa reached its golden age in the 12th century under King Parakramabahu I. Compact enough to explore thoroughly in a single day, its ruins offer one of the finest windows into medieval Sri Lankan civilisation anywhere in the Cultural Triangle.
Highlights include the Royal Palace complex, once a seven-storey structure with 50 rooms, and the Sacred Quadrangle, the most concentrated cluster of monuments in the ancient city. Don’t miss the Gal Vihara, four breathtaking Buddha statues carved directly from a single granite rock face, including a serene 14-metre reclining Buddha.
- Royal Palace ruins of King Parakramabahu I
- The Sacred Quadrangle’s temple cluster
- Gal Vihara’s rock-carved Buddha statues
- The King’s ancient swimming pool
Many guests pair a Polonnaruwa visit with a Minneriya safari the same afternoon for an efficient, unforgettable day.