Joanna James
Subjected to invasions and many rulers, the archaeological-rich city of Polonnaruwa stands testament to a glorious past, and provided below are 10 interesting features that must be experienced.
Rising against the surrounding jungle and brilliant blue sky is the astounding Royal Palace believed to have seen the light of day during the reign of King Parakramabahu I. The Palace once boasted of some 50 rooms that were bolstered by 30 massive columns of which remnants can be seen today. The entirety of the complex measures 31 meters by 13 meters making it one of the magnificent landmarks in Polonnaruwa.
Flanked by lion carvings along its staircase coupled with sublime carvings of elephants on its walls is the King's Audience Hall which highlights the engineering prowess of the ancient world.
Seen as the most sought-after collection of buildings in Polonnaruwa, the Sacred Quadrangle retains a special place in the hearts of local historians and culture buffs. The 4 entrances lead to a dagaba with 4 Buddha statues situated in its immediate vicinity which cannot be missed should you venture out to the 18-meter terrace on which the aforementioned are found.
What once was used by the great king himself for his leisure is presently pictured with ruins of stone staircases and brick walls that would direct one's attention towards the pool itself which is situated in one corner of the palace grounds.
Known primarily for one particular element alone; a group of 4 Buddha statues hewn out of solid granite. Among the noteworthy features here would be the 14-meter long reclining statue of the Buddha together with a 7-meter tall statue.
Nestled in the heart of a clearing is the city's best-preserved unrestored dagaba termed the Kiri Vihara. Constructed in honour of the king's wife, the Vihara's exterior is its main draw owing to the lime plaster which is thought to be in existence for over 700 years.
The Pabalu Vehera is the 3rd biggest dagaba in Polonnaruwa and comprises an array of stone pillars that act as guardians to this fine edifice coupled with Buddha statuettes and brick walls that are encircled by greenery that stretch out as far as one's gaze may go to.
The ancient city's largest surviving dagaba is the Rankot Vihara which is the 4th largest of its kind in Sri Lanka rising to an imposing 54 meters in height. Dating back to the reign of King Nissankamalla, this dagaba is an outstanding example of the creative minds of the builders of old and is complete with stone stairways and towering trees.
Detailing the times of the Chola Dynasty of South India in the country, the Devale is the oldest construction in Polonnaruwa and in turn, one of the Hindu temples located within the grounds. The shrine itself is built of solid stone and visitors wanting to uncover its glory will be presented with dirt tracks to go along as means of access.
Imagine stepping onto a stone plateau and being surrounded by the tallest of walls ever seen! Then consider pausing by the impressive Lankathilaka Buddha Statue when vacationing in Polonnaruwa. Hotels such as the Hotel Sudu Araliya can be made into your base from where such adventures may be thought of. Time here can be spent inspecting the 17 meter high walls that safeguard the prized possession of this attraction which is an enormous and expertly carved out statue of Lord Buddha.
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