Polonnaruwa is the second city, listed in Sri Lanka’s long line of kingdoms. Today the ancient city of Polonnaruwa remains one of the best planned Archeological relic sites in the country, standing testimony to the discipline and greatness of the Kingdom s first rulers. The city of Polonnaruwa was named the capital of Sri Lanka by its first king, Vikayabahu I who is popular for defeating the Chola invaders in the year 1070.
Buddhist pilgrimages are organised among people to visit ancient ruins of temples, stupas and even hindu temples. Rankot Vihara, the largest stupa in the city is about 180ft high. Lankathilaka Gedige, build during the rule of Parakramabahu, however the roof of it is missing but still is worth a visit to view the temple s magnificence. Kiri Vihara another stupa rediscovered during the 19th century, it was surrounded by the dense forest and thereby wasn’t known to man for long periods of time. Shiva Dewale, a hindu temple that was built during the 13th century, is also one of the famous attractions in Polonnaruwa. Anyhow Polonnaruwa also a great symbol that represents the historic and proud of Sri Lanka. This ancient city has been declared as a World Heritage site by UNESCO.
