Polonnaruwa is the ancient capital of Sri Lanka, located in the central part of the island, about 220 km from Colombo and 65 km from Anuradhapura. The city flourished between the 11th and 13th centuries, especially under King Parakramabahu I, who created an extensive irrigation system, palaces, and temples.

Polonnaruwa is where history meets nature – langurs, macaques, and colorful parrots roam freely among the ruins, bringing life and color to ancient stones. King Parakramabahu is famous for the phrase: “Do not let even a single drop of water flow into the sea without benefiting the people.” His legacy includes monumental architecture and innovative waterworks that still function today.

One-Day Itinerary – A Day Among History and Nature

Morning – Encountering the Ancient World

Early morning start at the entrance to the ancient city. Renting a bicycle or rickshaw is a convenient way to explore the ruins. Right from the start, expect to see parrots flying between trees and curious macaques.

Gal Vihara – rock-cut Buddha statues from the 12th century. The largest reclining Buddha is 14 meters long, radiating a sense of calm. Langurs often sit nearby, creating a living historical scene.

Lankatilaka Vihara – a large temple with remnants of ancient murals. Its corridors are frequently visited by parrots and macaques, giving a sense of the monks’ daily life and meditation practices.

Atmosphere: Morning quiet, rustling leaves, the subtle scent of tropical plants, and the monumental artistry of the past.

Midday – Royal Life

Royal Palace – step into the world of King Parakramabahu I. Columns, pools, throne rooms, and garden fountains. Legend says the pools reflected gold and decorative elements of the palace. Langurs and macaques running through the ruins make it feel as if history is alive.

Lunch: Enjoy a local meal – rice with curry and tropical fruits. Watch parrots and other birds nearby.

Afternoon – Spirituality and Hidden Secrets

Vatadage – a circular temple that housed Buddha’s relics. Walking through its carved corridors with lions and lotus flowers transports you to the time of ancient Buddhist ceremonies. Colorful parrots and curious macaques bring life to the stone corridors.

Monks’ residences and small temples – lesser-known corners where one can feel the meditative atmosphere of centuries past. Birdwatching and observing monkeys adds color and life to the ruins.

Atmosphere: Peaceful, photogenic surroundings, combining nature and architecture, with the feeling of history in every shadow.

Evening – Monumental Waters and Final Impressions

Parakrama Samudra – a massive artificial reservoir built by King Parakramabahu. Imagine daily life in ancient Polonnaruwa, ceremonies, irrigation, and recreation along its banks. Parrots and water birds provide a colorful contrast to the calm water.

End the day with a walk along the shoreline, observing the reflection of ruins in the water and the changing light of the sunset.

Why This Itinerary Works

Combines history, legends, and the daily life of ancient Polonnaruwa.

Naturally incorporates wildlife observation within the ruins.

Transforms the day into a story in four parts: morning, royal midday, spiritual afternoon, and evening reflections by the water.