Polonnaruwa ancient city
Polonnaruwa ancient city
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Polonnaruwa, the second ancient capital of Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved historic cities in South Asia. Flourishing between the 11th and 13th centuries under King Parakramabahu I, this royal city features an impressive collection of palace ruins, temples, statues, monasteries, and massive reservoirs that reflect advanced urban planning and engineering of ancient Sinhalese civilization.
The city is famed for the Gal Vihara – a group of exquisitely carved Buddha statues in granite, including a 14-meter-long reclining Buddha that’s considered a masterpiece of ancient stone sculpture. Visitors can also explore Parakrama Samudraya, a massive man-made reservoir built to support the capital, and Vatadage, a circular relic house that is one of the most iconic architectural remnants in Polonnaruwa.
Polonnaruwa offers a captivating mix of spiritual serenity, royal heritage, and architectural brilliance, all surrounded by scenic landscapes and monkeys swinging freely among the ruins.
Top Things to Do in Polonnaruwa
- Visit Gal Vihara – Admire perfectly preserved Buddha statues carved from solid granite
- Explore the Royal Palace Complex – See the ruins of King Parakramabahu’s palace and council chamber
- Walk Through the Quadrangle (Dalada Maluwa) Home to ancient shrines and temples, including Vatadage
- Visit Parakrama Samudraya – A large reservoir that still supports local agriculture
- Cycle Around the Ancient City – Rent a bicycle and explore the vast archaeological park at your own pace
- Photography – A dream location for capturing ancient ruins with beautiful lighting, especially at sunrise or sunset
About the Farm’s Dairy Production
Ambewela Farm is part of Ambewela Products Ltd, which also includes New Zealand Farm, both located close to each other. The farm uses modern technology and follows international standards in dairy farming. It produces fresh milk, cheese, and yogurt sold across Sri Lanka.
Visitors can see the milking process, understand how cows are cared for, and learn about the nutritional value of dairy products. Educational boards and guides help explain the process in a family-friendly way.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to explore Polonnaruwa is from May to September, when the weather is dry and ideal for outdoor walking or cycling. Early morning visits are recommended for cooler temperatures and better light for photography.
Tour Packages to visit Polonnaruwa
