The second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms (from 1070 to 1284 CE), Polonnaruwa was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I. But the real Polonnaruwa Hero of the history books is Parakramabahu I.
Today the ancient city of Polonnaruwa remains one of the best planned Archaeological relic sites in the country. And also it has been declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO.
Other than the sites from Ancient city including royal buildings and temples, Polonnaruwa contains very well organized ancient irrigation system which is active even today. Parakrama Samudraya (resembled to the meaning of Ocean) which is build by Great Parakramabahu and situated in the heart of the city is the nerve center of this irrigation system.
There are lot of eye catching sites and scenes in the ancient city and also in the surrounding of Parakrama Samudraya.
Buddha Statue Watadageya = an ancient building
A stone Lion Statue in the entrance to the Rajasabha Building (Royal Court) of King Parakramabahu. This is considered as the symbol of Polonnaruwa ancient kingdom.
Lankathilaka (Means " Pride of Lanka") Pilima Geya - There was a huge Buddha Statue inside this tall artistic building structure - The remains of the statue is there. The walls had been covered with beautiful paintings - some protected paintings can be seen on the side of the walls.
Parakrama Samudraya - A magical view in a sunny day
Paddy Fields - the living of majority
Another landscape with Paddy Fields
Flowers on the roadside
Rain and Sun together on Parakrama Samudraya
During the rainy season
Colourful sunset at Parakrama Samudraya
Another sunset at Parakrama Samudraya
Elephants
The kingdom of Polonnaruwa is second most ancient of Sri Lanka’s kingdoms. It was first announced the capital by King Vijayabahu, who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070 CE and reunited the country. For more information visit http://www.travelasia360.net/the-great-kingdom-of-polonnaruwa.html
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