Joanna James
Polonnaruwa is the second ancient kingdom of Sri Lanka. It lasted from 1070 to 1232 CE and produced over 16 kings during that epoch. Discover the remains of an ancient hydraulic civilisation nourished by the reverence for the Buddha and his teachings.
Also known as the northern temple, this is a cave complex with a width of 27 metres and a height of 10 metres. It was built during the rule of the Great King Parakramabahu and depicts statues of Lord Buddha in a meditative pose, standing posture and a reclining statue depicting the Buddha's ultimate Parinibbana. All these images are carved out of solid black stone; the artist behind this masterpiece was extremely skilful, as they have imparted a serenity and peace that is almost tangible. There are four caves with Buddha images sculpted in stone. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit while in Sri Lanka.
The impressive standing statue of the Buddha was sculpted in between two massive walls, creating a narrow corridor, at the end of which stands the massive Buddha. The head of the Buddha is now missing, but despite that, it remains an awe-inspiring monument that should not be missed.
This stupa is the third biggest in Polonnaruwa and was built by a consort of Great Parakramabahu. Pabalu means beads in Sinhalese, and the stupa and its surrounding structures remain in good condition. During excavations, a large number of beads were discovered by archaeologists near the dagaba, prompting many to believe they may have used adornments to venerate the stupa. The summit of the stupa has been destroyed, probably during foreign invasions that occurred several times in Polonnaruwa.
In Sinhalese, it is known as the 'watadage' and it is one of the finest examples of the sculptures and architecture of the Polonnaruwa Period. The quadrangle contains four seated statues of the Buddha surrounding the shrine in the middle with four entrances. Built during the reign of Great King Parakramabahu, or King Nissanka Malla, the complex was made to contain the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. Although sections have been ravaged by time, some of the best-preserved examples of sculpture can be found here. The Sandakada Pahana (moonstone), depicts the sansaric journey of beings with many rebirths until they reach final enlightenment or Nibbana. The muragal were guard stones that depict various deities that protected the premises.
Like Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, is beset by large man-made tanks, commissioned by the kings to preserve water for agricultural purposes and the common good of man during periods of harsh weather. Parakrama Samudra (sea of Parakrama), spreads across 5600 acres; this vast creation is a true spectacle of the engineering feats of the ancient Sinhalese. There are designated spots for communal use, and many locals do their laundry here and have their daily baths to this day. One can learn more about this ancient city via blogs such as Truly Sri Lanka.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
