Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient kingdom of Sri Lanka, is located 216 km away from the capital Colombo. This was an ancient capital of Sri Lanka from the eleventh to the thirteenth century since the great King Vijayabahu established his capital there after gaining the throne.

There are a number of attractions in and around Polonnaruwa, most of them remnants of ancient buildings which are especially interesting for tourists who like to explore Sri Lanka’s gallant history. Some of these ruins are the Kings’ council chambers, the Kumara Pokuna (a pond), the Royal Citadel, the Royal Pavilion and the Vatadage Relic House which has an amazing construction with guard stones, moon stones and sculptured railing. The two Buddhist temples in Polonnaruwa, Kiri Vihara and Gal Vihara are well known for the construction and architectural skills shown in building. Parakrama Samudraya is the largest reservoir in the country, another great piece of evidence that displays the creative construction skills of the men who lived during the ancient times. Gal Viharaya, another outstanding location in Polonnaruwa built during the time of King Prakramabahu, is a temple which has a great the reclining sculpture of Lord Buddha carved with a huge stone. Many other remnants of the old Polonnaruwa city, such as shores of Lake Topa Wewa and scores of other temples are open for the tourists.

A large number of tourists are attracted towards Polonnaruwa due to its geographical location as well, as it is located in between Colombo and Batticaloa, closer to several famous tourist spots such as Pinnawela elephant orphanage, Sigiriya and Dambulla rock temple.