Discover Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa invites you to discover history through a wide variety of details: lotus-shaped columns, elaborate friezes and colossal Buddha statues carved from rock. At the same time, the name refers to more than just the ancient city. Kaduruwela is Polonnaruwa’s New Town; another part is the royal ancient city of the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa. Keeping this distinction in mind can help you consider your interests alongside your choice of accommodation.

Monasteries and statues

Gal Vihara is among the remarkable Buddhist monasteries and shrines of the Polonnaruwa period. It is home to colossal Buddha statues carved from rock. Alahana Parivena is also among Polonnaruwa’s remarkable Buddhist monasteries and shrines; it is also a monastic university. The two sites thus represent different aspects of the religious heritage.

Pabalu Vehera and Manik Vehera are monasteries whose design and layout predate the Polonnaruwa period. If you would like to understand the architectural history, you can compare this earlier design and layout with the structures built during the Polonnaruwa period. As you explore, you can look out for differences in date without reducing the sites to a single era.

Columns, friezes and entrances

At Nissankalata Mandapa, rows of graceful columns are shaped like lotus stems. At Vatadage, the focus is on different architectural details: its outer walls bear friezes depicting lions, dwarfs and lotus flowers. Moonstones and guardstones featuring Nāgarāja figures—the seven-headed king cobras—stand at the four entrances. The impressions are therefore quite distinct: rows of columns define one structure, while friezes and richly decorated entrances define the other.

Explore the ancient city your own way

You can explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa by bicycle, discovering temples, royal palaces and statues at your own pace. If you would like to do this, ask about current bicycle rental options before your trip.

There is also a dedicated activity for children: they can discover the ruins on a treasure hunt with clues and tasks. If this suits your trip, confirm the date and details with the provider. This activity offers a different focus from cycling: rather than discovering the sights at your own pace, the emphasis is on clues and tasks.

Practical information and choosing accommodation

The Polonnaruwa Museum is open daily from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; check the opening hours before your visit. Tickets for the archaeological site are available at the museum. As ticketing arrangements can change, it is also advisable to check this information again before your trip.

When looking for a holiday apartment, your preferred point of reference can be a useful guide. Kaduruwela is Polonnaruwa’s New Town, while another part is the royal ancient city. This allows you to match your accommodation choice to your own plans rather than deciding based solely on the place name.

Discover more destinations: Minneriya, Patthini Pedesa.

Return to the main travel overview: Polonnaruwa.