North Central Province

Polonnaruwa

Medieval capital with well-preserved ruins including the famous Gal Vihara rock temple with stunning Buddha carvings.

Polonnaruwa

About Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa was the second capital of Sri Lanka after Anuradhapura, flourishing between the 11th and 13th centuries. This UNESCO World Heritage Site contains remarkably well-preserved ruins of ancient palaces, temples, and monasteries. Highlights include the Gal Vihara with its stunning Buddha statues carved from granite, the Royal Palace complex, and the ancient irrigation systems. The site is perfect for exploring by bicycle.

Highlights

Gal Vihara, Royal Palace, Polonnaruwa Vatadage, Lankatilaka Temple, Parakrama Samudra Lake

Best Time to Visit

May to September

Other Destinations in North Central

Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura

Ancient capital and UNESCO site with sacred Buddhist monuments, including the world's oldest documented tree.

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