Joanna James
The island of gorgeous beaches, fascinating fauna and delectable cuisine, Sri Lanka is also the possessor of a proud history that dates back centuries. In the midst of the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka, the ancient city of Polonnaruwa treats you best to the island’s rich history like no other.
While visitors to Polonnaruwa’s most popular tourist attraction may be treated to a set of remarkable ruins and remnants today, dating back to the 12th century AD, the historical structure is believed to have been towering at 7 stories and imposing with a mind-blowing 1,000 chambers — simply an emblem of marvellous historical Sri Lankan architecture, evident by the prodigious facade of the palace that stands to date. Do take your time exploring the colossal palace complex, for it treats you to the bygone culture, art and engineering in the island’s heyday.
In the ancient city chock-full of magnificent architecture, the Quadrangle basks in the glory of being the only one of its kind, not just in Polonnaruwa, but in the whole of the island nation. Polonnaruwa Vatadage — as the Quadrangle is known locally — is rich in history as it is architecturally, so much so it is believed to have housed the Sacred Tooth Relic prior to it being moved to its current sanctum — The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. The iconic Quadrangle has a score of contrasting chronicles describing the structure’s origin; while none of them have been confirmed to be accurate, one thing is for sure — it is a fine example of Sri Lanka’s remarkable craftsmanship.
Your Sri Lanka experience would be hardly complete without experiencing the country’s fascinating island fauna, and for those vacationing in Polonnaruwa, Minneriya National Park is the closest to a wildlife adventure. After a day of exciting wildlife safari, retreat to one of the best hotels in Polonnaruwa, the likes of Hotel Sudu Araliya.
While may not be a popular stop on many Polonnaruwa itineraries, a visit to the historical site certainly wouldn’t be in vain. Standing tall, with its two imposing pillars at the entrance greeting you, Lankathilaka Image House is one bewitching work of elaborate and intricate “Gedige” style Indian architecture. From the towering walls to the striking carvings and sculptures, the complex is one big treat for the eyes of all visitors.
Dating back to the 12 century, Parakrama Samudra is a massive shallow reservoir with an area of 23 square kilometres built to serve as an irrigation solution to the scores of paddy fields of the kingdom back in the day. Serving Polonnaruwa and the vicinity even to date, the colossal reservoir is a testament to the mind-blowing engineering of the ancient kingdom.
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.
