Polonnaruwa - An Ancient City in Sri Lanka with Historic Ruins
.jpg)
Sri Lanka is full of crazy old stuff, and Polonnaruwa is no exception. This once-booming capital city, dating back to way back in the 11th and 12th centuries, is crawling with impressive ruins, giant statues, and reminders of a super cool past. Basically, it's a must-see for history lovers and anyone who wants to ditch the present for a while and explore ancient Sri Lanka.
Best time to visit: From Nov-To-Mar
.jpg)
.jpg)
How to Reach Polonnaruwa
- Polonnaruwa isn't exactly on the tourist highway, but that's half the fun! From Colombo, you can catch a train that winds through the countryside. Buses are another option, and way easier on your wallet. But taxis will get you there quicker. If you have some extra time, renting a car lets you explore nearby areas at your own pace.
- Exploring Polonnaruwa
- The best way to see Polonnaruwa is to rent a bicycle and cruise around the ruins. There's even a special Ancient City Cycling Tour route that takes you past all the important stuff. Here's a quick rundown of what you can't miss:
- The Gal Vihara – This giant rock cave is home to three massive Buddha statues, each chilling in a different pose – standing, sitting, and reclining.
- The Quadrangle – The royal complex, the heart of the whole ancient city. Walk around the ruins of palaces, audience halls, and council chambers.
- The Vatadage – This round building used to be a sacred Buddhist shrine. Check out the cool carvings and the giant stupa (dome-shaped building) in the center.
- The Rankot Vihara – This super old dagoba (stupa) is one of the oldest things in Polonnaruwa. Climb the stairs to the top for epic views of the ruins around you.
Food to Try in Polonnaruwa
- After a morning spent checking out ruins, you'll be starving. Luckily, there are many restaurants in Polonnaruwa and cafes too to refuel. Here are some local dishes to try:
- Pittu – Steamed rice cakes with all sorts of fillings, both savory and sweet.
- Kiri Appa – Delicate coconut milk pancakes, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
- Isso Wade – Crispy fried pastries filled with yummy spiced meat or veggies.
- Fresh Fish Curry – A Sri Lankan staple, fresh fish cooked in a fragrant and flavorful curry sauce. Veggie lovers can enjoy lentil curries, stir-fried veggies, and fresh salads.
- Accommodation Options in Polonnaruwa
- There are many good places to stay in Polonnaruwa for all budgets, from fancy hotels to chill guesthouses. Here's a quick breakdown:
- Luxury Hotels: Fortress Gate Bungalow and EKHO Lake House are both super fancy with beautiful settings, amazing service, and all the bells and whistles.
- Mid-Range Hotels: Hotel Sudu Araliya and Ruins Chaaya Hotel offer comfy rooms, swimming pools, and a relaxed vibe, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
- Budget-Friendly Hotels: The Sandamali Guesthouse and Thisara Guest House provide basic but clean rooms at prices that won't break the bank.
Top Attractions Nearby
- While Polonnaruwa's ruins are the main attraction, there's more to see nearby:
- Minneriya National Park – Take a safari through this wildlife park and spot elephants, deer, and maybe even leopards!
- Kaudulla National Park – Another great option for wildlife enthusiasts is Kaudulla National Park, offering jeep safaris to see herds of elephants and other animals.
- Sigiriya – Explore the incredible rock fortress of Sigiriya, an ancient palace complex perched on a massive rock.
- The Bottom Line
- Polonnaruwa is a mind-blowing glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich past. With its awesome ruins, delicious food, and friendly locals, it's a wonderful place to visit!
