Lankatilaka Temple ( Image House ) | Polonnaruwa

About this Attraction

Exploring the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, I was drawn to the awe-inspiring Lankatilaka Temple—a symbol of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and architectural brilliance. As I approached this majestic structure, I was immediately captivated by its towering walls and the remarkable history etched into its bricks.

The Majestic Entrance

Walking toward Lankatilaka, I was greeted by two towering brick pillars that stood as sentinels at the entrance. The tallest of these pillars reaches an impressive 58 feet, a testament to the engineering marvels of ancient Sri Lanka. Passing through this grand entrance felt like stepping into another era marked by devotion and artistic mastery.

The Remarkable Buddha Statue

Inside the shrine, the headless yet awe-inspiring Buddha statue took my breath away. Standing over 14 meters tall, the figure fills the entire space, commanding attention and evoking a profound reverence. Unlike other temples where stupas dominate the landscape, Lankatilaka uniquely focuses on this colossal Buddha, symbolizing peace and enlightenment. Even in its incomplete state, the statue's imposing presence left me in awe of the craftsmanship and spiritual depth it represents.

Brickwork and Intricate Designs

The temple’s walls, entirely crafted from bricks, showcase intricate carvings and designs that speak to the creativity and skill of ancient artisans. Every detail, from the patterns on the walls to the remnants of the vaulted Gedi-Ge roof, reflected a level of functional and aesthetically stunning artistry. It amazed me to think that this structure once stood five stories high, a testament to the architectural innovation of the time.

The Ingenious Stairways

One of the most fascinating aspects of Lankatilaka was its unique stairways. As I climbed to the upper levels, I noticed that the steps were only four inches wide and a foot high, making it impossible to ascend in a standard manner. Instead, I had to climb sideways, with my back against the wall. This ingenious design ensures no one turns their back on the Buddha statue—a deeply symbolic gesture of respect. It was both challenging and humbling, adding a layer of spiritual connection to the experience.

The Nagini Carving

As I explored the temple further, I encountered a rare carving of Nagini, a female Naga deity, on one of the fences. This was a unique feature, as most ancient Buddhist temples typically showcase male Naga deities. The intricate carving highlighted the equal importance given to both male and female representations in ancient Sri Lankan culture, reflecting the inclusivity and symbolism of the era.

The Spiritual Atmosphere

Despite its partially ruined state, the Lankatilaka Temple radiated an aura of grandeur and tranquillity. Standing amidst its towering walls and gazing at the serene Buddha statue, I felt a profound connection to the spiritual devotion that shaped this extraordinary structure.

Reflections on Lankatilaka

Visiting Lankatilaka Temple was a journey through history and spirituality. The blend of artistic brilliance, engineering ingenuity, and deep cultural symbolism made it one of the most memorable experiences of my travels in Sri Lanka.

For anyone visiting Polonnaruwa, the Lankatilaka Temple is an unmissable destination. It offers a glimpse into the architectural marvels and spiritual depth of ancient Sri Lanka, leaving visitors in awe of the legacy left behind by the island’s rich history.

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