Among Sri Lanka’s many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Polonnaruwa stands as a testament to the grandeur of the island’s ancient civilization. Once the thriving capital of Sri Lanka, Polonnaruwa’s ruins offer a stunning glimpse into the island’s past. But as tourism grows, it’s vital that we visit this sacred and historical site with respect, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
1. Polonnaruwa: A Journey Through History
Polonnaruwa became the second capital of Sri Lanka after the fall of Anuradhapura in the 10th century AD. It rose to prominence under the reign of King Vijayabahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders and unified the country. However, it was under King Parakramabahu the Great (1153–1186 AD) that Polonnaruwa truly flourished. The king’s vision of a self-sufficient, agriculturally rich kingdom led to the construction of massive irrigation systems, architectural marvels, and religious monuments that still awe visitors today.
Walking through Polonnaruwa is like stepping into an ancient city frozen in time. Its well-preserved ruins, towering stupas, intricate carvings, and massive reservoirs offer a fascinating glimpse into the ingenuity and creativity of Sri Lanka’s ancestors.
2. Must-See Sites in Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa is spread over a vast area, so it's best to plan at least a full day to explore the key sites. Here are some highlights that no visitor should miss:
Gal Viharaya: This iconic monument features four massive rock-cut statues of Buddha in different postures—seated, standing, and reclining. Carved directly into a granite rock face, these statues are some of the finest examples of ancient Sinhalese craftsmanship.
The Royal Palace: The ruins of King Parakramabahu’s palace are an impressive sight. This once-magnificent seven-story structure now stands as a reminder of the kingdom's opulence. While only a few stories remain, the scale and layout give visitors an idea of its grandeur.
The Vatadage: One of Polonnaruwa’s most famous and beautifully designed structures, the Vatadage is a circular relic house. Intricate carvings adorn the entrance steps, and it is thought to have housed the sacred Tooth Relic before it was moved to Kandy.
Parakrama Samudra: A massive man-made reservoir built by King Parakramabahu the Great, this body of water is an engineering marvel. Known as the "Sea of Parakrama," the reservoir was vital for sustaining agriculture in the area and is still in use today.
Rankoth Vehera: Standing at an impressive height of 55 meters, this large stupa is a must-see. It reflects the architectural prowess of ancient Sri Lanka and is reminiscent of stupas found in Anuradhapura.
3. Sustainable Tourism: Protecting Polonnaruwa’s Legacy
As more travelers are drawn to Polonnaruwa’s rich history, it’s crucial to ensure that tourism doesn’t harm its ancient ruins and natural surroundings. Sustainable tourism practices are key to preserving this precious site for future generations. Here’s how you can help:
Respect the Ruins: Polonnaruwa’s ruins are ancient and fragile. Avoid touching or climbing on the monuments, as this can cause irreparable damage. Stick to the designated paths and listen to the advice of guides to ensure the protection of these historical treasures.
Mindful Photography: While Polonnaruwa’s sites are undeniably photogenic, it’s important to be mindful of your surroundings. Avoid using flash photography inside temples and during religious ceremonies. Also, remember that some statues and shrines, especially those of Buddha, should not be photographed from behind as it’s considered disrespectful.
Support Local Communities: By choosing to stay at locally-owned accommodations, dining at local restaurants, and purchasing souvenirs from local artisans, you contribute directly to the community. This helps ensure that the economic benefits of tourism reach the people who live in and around Polonnaruwa.
Reduce Your Footprint: Keep the environment clean by disposing of waste responsibly. Carry reusable water bottles and avoid single-use plastics when visiting the site.
4. When to Visit
Polonnaruwa is best visited between November and April, when the weather is cooler and the chances of rain are minimal. Since the ruins cover a large area, it’s best to explore either early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
Many visitors choose to cycle around Polonnaruwa, which adds to the sense of adventure while allowing you to cover more ground in an eco-friendly way.
5. How to Get There
Polonnaruwa is located around 220 km northeast of Colombo. You can reach the city by bus or train from Colombo, or by private vehicle, which takes about 5-6 hours. Once there, renting a bicycle or tuk-tuk is a convenient way to explore the archaeological sites.
Final Thoughts: Balancing Tourism with Conservation
Polonnaruwa is more than just a tourist attraction—it’s a living piece of Sri Lanka’s history. As visitors, we have a responsibility to appreciate its beauty while protecting it from harm. By supporting sustainable tourism efforts and respecting the ancient sites, we can help preserve Polonnaruwa for future generations, ensuring that its cultural and historical legacy endures.
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