Experience Polonnaruwa

For a glimpse of medieval Sri Lankan architecture and craftsmanship, no better example exists than the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Towards the end of the first millennia, the decline of Anuradhapura – the earliest Royal capital of Sri Lanka – as a result of invading Chola armies from across the waters in India, led to the shifting of the capital further south to this ancient city. From here, great Kings ruled the central plains and built magnificent palaces, monasteries, and stupas. Given its close access to some of the National parks, makes Polonnaruwa a popular ancient city to visit.

Trip Ideas

Wildlife

Minneriya National Park

A relatively small park of scrubland and dry zone forest, its focal point is the ancient Minneriya Tank, which becomes the site for one of the greatest natural spectacles in the world.

Wildlife

Wasgamuwa National Park

Located in the dry zone, south of Polonnaruwa and east of Matale, the Wasgamuwa National Park is known for its high concentration of the elusive sloth bear.

Heritage

Medirigiriya Vatadage

Medirigiriya Vatadage is a beautifully well-preserved monument that shows us the true appearance of a vatadage, a protective colannaded structure.

Heritage

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Sigiriya Rock Fortress was built in the 5th Century. This rock citadel demonstrate astounding feats of hydro-engineering and urban planning.

Heritage

Dambulla Cave Temple

A complex of five caves, lying ensconced within a 600-foot rock massif rising from the plains. The Dambulla Cave Temple dates back to the 1st Century BC.

Wildlife

Angammedilla National Park

A small park located near Polonnaruwa, the Angammedilla National Park was established to protect the catchment area of the historic Parakrama Samudraya.