Polonnaruwa(Sinhala: පොළොන්නරුව, Tamil: பொலன்னறுவை)

Polonnaruwa is located about a 2-hour drive from Sigiriya and 4 hours from Kandy. It forms part of the Cultural Triangle in Sri Lanka, which includes Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, and Polonnaruwa. This destination is a must-visit in Sri Lanka. The Polonnaruwa period spanned from 1055 to 1212, following the Anuradhapura kingdom. Sri Lankan kings governed from here around 800 years ago.

Polonnaruwa stands as one of the most ancient royal cities in Sri Lanka and is recognized as a World Heritage site due to its historical significance. Visitors can still witness the former grandeur of one of the world's most prosperous ancient cities. Ancient relics continue to bear witness to the greatness and discipline of the kingdom's former rulers.

Duran Duran featured Polonnaruwa in their famous 1982 song "Say a Prayer." During the reign of King Parakramabahu, Polonnaruwa was a self-sufficient kingdom. He enhanced the kingdom's irrigation system and agriculture. The impressive Parakrama Samudraya, a vast man-made lake constructed in 1200 that accommodated large ships, is still visible today. The best way to explore the area is by bicycle or tuk-tuk.

The ideal time to visit is from November to March when the air is cooler than the usual dry high temperatures. Temperatures range between 35°C and 24°C depending on the month, with December being notably cooler.

Places to stay are EKHO Lake House, Siyanco Holiday Resort, Hotel Sudu Araliya, Tishan Holiday Resort, AgboHotel, Giritale Hotel, Honey Tree, Pharo Lake, and Monarch Residence.

Must do Things in Polonnaruwa

• Royal Palace and Ruins

• Buddha Statues at Gal Viharaya

• Audience Hall

• Swimming pool

• Sacred Quadrangle

• Rankotha Viharaya

• Kiri Vihara

• Lankathilakaya

• Parakrama Samudraya

Other Things to do in Polonnaruwa

• Shiva Devale

• Pabalu Vehera

• Archaeological Museum

• Potgul Vihara

• Tivanka Image House