About Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa was the magnificent medieval capital of Sri Lanka from the 11th to 13th century. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with some of the finest examples of ancient Sri Lankan art and architecture.
The highlights include the breathtaking Gal Vihara — four giant rock-cut Buddha statues carved from a single granite face — and the towering Rankoth Vehera stupa. Most visitors explore by bicycle, making it a wonderfully immersive experience.
✦ Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddha statues✦ Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu✦ Rankoth Vehera — 4th largest stupa in Sri Lanka✦ Vatadage circular relic house✦ Quadrangle (Dalada Maluwa) complex✦ Parakrama Samudra ancient reservoir✦ Explore by bicycle — most popular way
Location Map
📍 Polonnaruwa, North Central Province, Sri Lanka
ℹ️ Note: Entrance fee approx. $25/person (not included). Bicycle hire inside park ~$3.