Once a glorious royal capital, Polonnaruwa now stands as a beautifully weathered open-air museum where history and jungle vibes collide. If you love ancient ruins, golden Buddhas, and a good dose of wanderlust, this is your ultimate cultural detour.
Wander Through the Royal Palace Complex
Start your adventure where kings once ruled—at the Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu I, less than 10 minutes from Hotel Sudu Araliya. Though time and weather have left it in ruins, the remaining stone walls still hint at a once-grand structure with seven storeys and over a thousand rooms.
Hop on a Bike and Cruise the Ruins
The best way to explore Polonnaruwa? On two wheels. Rent a bike and cycle through ancient roads shaded by trees and dotted with centuries-old temples and lotus ponds. Many Polonnaruwa hotels even offer bike rentals, so you can roll straight from your breakfast buffet into your history fix.
Marvel at the Gal Vihara Buddhas
These enormous Buddha statues, carved from a single granite rock, are some of the most famous attractions of Polonnaruwa. From the serene seated figure to the impressive 46-foot-long reclining Buddha, each sculpture radiates calm and craftsmanship.
Pro tip: visit early in the morning to soak in the peaceful atmosphere without the crowds—and don’t forget your camera!
Visit the Sacred Quadrangle
This compact complex is packed with some of the most iconic ruins, like the circular Vatadage shrine and the Hatadage relic house. Every stone has a story, and the intricate carvings will leave you wondering how artisans nailed such detail without power tools. It’s the perfect place to end your tour and reflect on Sri Lanka’s rich heritage—with maybe a cold king coconut in hand.
