Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa (218 km. from Colombo) became established as the capital in the 11th c., when Anuradhapura was abandoned due to foreign invasion. A well-planned medieval city defended by enclosing walls (around 5 km. of which still remain), it was graced by palaces, shrines, monasteries, pavilions, parks, ponds and irrigation lakes.
Polonnaruwa's monuments date mainly from the 11th and 12th centuries during which it was Sri Lanka's capital and bear the stamp of three great kings -Vijayabahu 1, Parakrama Bahu the Great and Nissanka Malla.
The palace complex of Parakrama Bahu is a medieval
stronghold of moats, walls, guard-houses, bating ponds and thick-walled, multi-storeyed castle. The Royal Council Chamber, a majestic pavilion of granite columns, is adorned with rampant lions, moonstones and richly carved friezes.

Gal Vihare

The Gal Vihare is one of Sri Lanka's most unforgettable monuments. A group of three colossal Buddha images in seated standing and reclining poses, is carved with fluid grace and almost live expression, on a huge rock-face. The recumbent image measures 44 ft. in length.

Gal Potha (Stone Book)

Records the deeds of King Nissanka Malla.

Ran Koth Vehera - The Golden Pinnacle Dagaba

Built by Nissankamalla. This Dagaba is the largest in Polonnaruwa and measures 550-ft. in girth and 180 feet high. Although it was completed by Nissankamalla, the dagaba was probably largely the work of Rupavati, one of Parakramabahu's queens.

The Vatadage (Circular Relic House)

The Sacred Quadrangle is a complex of twelve striking monuments. The Vatadage (Circular Relic House) is a shrine of four entrances, seated Buddha images, dressed stone pillars, ornate friezes and guardstones.