Heritage & Culture
Polonnaruwa Medieval Capital
(21 Reviews)
Ancient Medieval Capital

Discover the ancient city of Polonnaruwa with Grand Ceylon Holidays, Sri Lanka's second ancient kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This medieval capital, which flourished between the 11th and 13th centuries AD, showcases some of the island's most impressive stone monuments and engineering marvels. After Anuradhapura was destroyed, Polonnaruwa rose to prominence as the capital of the Chola and Sinhalese kingdoms, leaving behind a remarkable archaeological treasure.

Explore the well-preserved ruins of royal palaces, massive Buddhist temples, intricate stone carvings, and the famous Gal Vihara with its four magnificent Buddha statues carved from a single granite wall. Marvel at the ancient irrigation systems, including the vast man-made Parakrama Samudra reservoir, which still functions today. Grand Ceylon Holidays offers expert-guided tours that bring to life the fascinating history and architectural brilliance of this ancient city, allowing you to step back in time and experience the grandeur of medieval Sri Lanka.

Key Monuments
  • Gal Vihara - Four magnificent Buddha statues carved from a single granite rock

  • Royal Palace Complex - Impressive ruins of King Parakramabahu's royal residence

  • Vatadage - Circular relic house with exquisite stone carvings

  • Lankathilaka Temple - Massive brick structure with a colossal Buddha statue

  • Parakrama Samudra - Ancient man-made reservoir still in use today