Gal Vihara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Polonnaruwa, is where history, spirituality, and artistry converge. My visit to this iconic temple was a journey through time, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of ancient Sri Lanka. Here’s a detailed account of my experience, broken down into sub-topics: Arrival at Gal Vihara As I approached Gal Vihara, I was immediately struck by its serene and sacred atmosphere. Nestled amidst lush greenery, the temple complex exuded a sense of timelessness. The sight of the massive granite rock face, adorned with intricate carvings, was awe-inspiring. I knew I was about…

My recent visit to Flood Plains National Park was one of the most memorable wildlife experiences in Sri Lanka. Located about 222 kilometres northeast of Colombo, this hidden gem was unlike any other national park I had visited. I have always been curious about this park, especially after learning that it plays a vital role in Sri Lanka’s ecosystem, acting as an elephant corridor between Wasgamuwa and Somawathiya National Parks. When I finally had the chance to visit, I knew I was in for something special — but I didn’t expect it to be this breathtaking. Arriving at the Park:…

Tucked away in the peaceful village of Buddharuva Yaya, near the lively town of Bakamuna, I discovered a true hidden gem—the Buduruwayaya Archaeological Site. Despite its historical significance, it remains a quiet sanctuary many pilgrims miss. My visit here felt like a journey through time, offering a deep connection to Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage and ancient artistry. The Scenic Journey to Buduruwayaya Reaching Buduruwayaya was part of the adventure. Travelling along the Dambulla-Hetitipola highway, the road curved gently through verdant landscapes. A short drive led me into secluded serenity after passing the Kumarella Bridge on the Bakamuna-Maiyangana Expressway. Surrounded by the Amban River on…

Polonnaruwa, with its timeless ruins and serene landscapes, has always intrigued me. During my recent visit to this ancient city, I stumbled upon a hidden gem often overshadowed by more prominent sites like Gal Vihara or the Sacred Quadrangle—the Menik Vehera. My experience here was one of the most profound and peaceful encounters with Sri Lanka's Buddhist heritage. The Journey to Menik Vehera The walk toward Menik Vehera was refreshing. After navigating the larger, more crowded parts of the Polonnaruwa archaeological complex, I found the path leading to this lesser-known stupa relatively quiet. The air was cooler beneath the canopy of trees, and…

During my recent visit to Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s ancient royal capital, I stumbled upon a hidden gem that awakened me: the Nelum Pokuna or Lotus Pond. While most visitors flock to the massive ruins of the Quadrangle or Gal Viharaya, this intricately designed stone bath remains somewhat tucked away, waiting for the curious traveller to discover its charm. The Journey to Nelum Pokuna Polonnaruwa’s vast archaeological site has a timeless appeal, and exploring it often feels like walking through a living museum. Exploring the city’s ancient ponds led me down a quieter path. A gentle turn away from the bustling…

Visiting Wasgamuwa National Park was an unforgettable experience that immersed me in Sri Lanka's natural beauty. From its rich biodiversity to the mesmerizing landscapes, every moment spent there was a blend of adventure and learning. Journey to the Park The journey to Wasgamuwa National Park was exciting from the start. We began our trip from Colombo, covering approximately 225 kilometres. Our route took us through Kandy, with a turn from Hasalaka on the Kandy-Mahiuyanganga Road. We passed through Wilgamuwa, finally arriving at the park entrance. The scenic drive was lined with lush greenery and occasional glimpses of wildlife, building anticipation…

Visiting Parakrama Samudraya was an experience that left me in awe of Sri Lanka’s ancient engineering marvels. As I stood by the vast waters of this massive reservoir built during the reign of King Parakramabahu the Great, I couldn’t help but imagine the brilliance and ambition that went into constructing such a feat over 800 years ago. The sheer scale of it earned its name, "Sea of Parakramabahu," and at that moment, looking at the endless stretch of shimmering blue, I understood why. An Engineering Marvel Beyond Its Time What fascinated me most was how five large reservoirs were interconnected to…

Tucked away in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, Somawathiya National Park is where nature and spirituality blend seamlessly. Located about 260 kilometres from Colombo, I found myself on a path less travelled, venturing deep into a world where elephants roam freely, birds create a symphony in the marshes, and history whispers through the ancient ruins hidden within the jungle. From the first moment, Somawathiya felt different—not just a national park but an untouched sanctuary where the natural world thrives in its purest form. Unlike the more commercialized safaris of Yala or Udawalawe, this park offers a raw, unspoiled experience, perfect…

Among the many ruins of Polonnaruwa lies a stupa that holds a quiet yet profound presence—Pabalu Vehera. Unlike some of the more famous stupas in Sri Lanka, this one carries a unique aura of mystery, its origins shrouded in time. As I walked towards the stupa, surrounded by the ancient city’s scattered ruins and towering trees, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of history lingering in the air. A Journey into History – The Origins of Pabalu Vehera Stepping closer, I noticed that Pabalu Vehera had a slightly different design from other stupas I had seen before. The…

My visit to Polonnaruwa was more than just a step back in time; it explored the incredible technological advancements that ancient Sri Lanka achieved. This historic city, rich in cultural heritage, offered a firsthand look at innovations that were far ahead of their time, proving how deeply connected technology was to the needs of its people. The Ingenious Bisokotuva Technology As I explored the remnants of ancient irrigation systems, I was fascinated by the Bisokotuva technology, a marvel in water management. This reservoir system transformed arid lands into fertile fields, showcasing the expertise of ancient Sri Lankan engineers. Standing near…

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…

Standing before the majestic Rankoth Vehera in Polonnaruwa, I couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of awe. With its grandeur and historical significance, this towering stupa offers a glimpse into the remarkable engineering and religious devotion of ancient Sri Lanka. Walking through its vast terrace and gazing up at its massive dome, I was transported back to the time of King Nissanka Malla, who is credited with its construction during his reign from 1187 to 1196 AD. Architectural Splendor and Engineering Marvels Rankoth Vehera’s sheer size is captivating. Its circular base spans an incredible 170 meters in diameter, a…

On a recent trip to the southeastern coast of Sri Lanka, I explored the Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary, a hidden gem tucked away in the Hambantota district. Known for its pristine lagoons, diverse wildlife, and tranquil surroundings, Kalametiya is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. This visit was more than just a trip; it was an opportunity to immerse myself in this coastal treasure's natural beauty and biodiversity. First Impressions of Kalametiya The moment I arrived, I was struck by the serene beauty of the sanctuary. Located amidst picturesque bays, coves, lagoons, and sandy beaches, Kalametiya felt like a world…

Nestled in the Mahaweli River basin, Angammedilla National Park spans across the Matale and Polonnaruwa districts, covering an area of approximately 25,900 hectares. Once a forest reserve within the Minneriya-Girithale Sanctuary, the park was declared a national park on 6 June 2006. Its primary purpose is to protect the drainage basins of Parakrama Samudra and other vital water sources, including those of Minneriya and Girithale irrigation tanks. The park’s diverse topography, including dense forests, grasslands, and wetlands, creates a sanctuary for various plant and animal species. Exploring Angammedilla offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in Sri Lanka's biodiversity while…

Standing before the majestic Kiri Vehera in Polonnaruwa, I was instantly transported back in time. Towering at 80 feet, this ancient stupa is a testament to Sri Lanka's rich history and architectural brilliance. Its pristine white appearance, which earned it the name "Milk White Dagoba," radiates tranquillity and purity, leaving visitors in awe of its beauty and serenity. Historical Significance and Architectural Grandeur As I explored this magnificent structure, I learned about its fascinating history. Built over 900 years ago by Queen Subadra, the consort of King Parakramabahu, Kiri Vehera was initially known as the "Rupavathi Stupa." It is the…

My visit to the Somawathiya Chaitya, nestled in the serene surroundings of Polonnaruwa, was an unforgettable spiritual journey. This ancient stupa, believed to enshrine the sacred right tooth relic of the Buddha, radiates a profound sense of tranquillity and reverence. As I approached the site, the historical aura of this over 2000-year-old structure was palpable, making it an extraordinary experience. History and Significance Standing before the Somawathiya Chaitya, I was captivated by its connection to Princess Somawathi, who, along with her husband Prince Giri Abhaya, played a pivotal role in its establishment. According to legend, the stupa was built to…

My visit to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa was a step back in time, where history and culture whispered their tales through the ruins. Among the many remarkable sites, the Gal Potha, or Stone Book, stood out as an extraordinary testament to Sri Lanka’s heritage. Discovering Gal Potha Walking into the Sacred Quadrangle of Polonnaruwa, my eyes were immediately drawn to the massive stone slab of Gal Potha. Measuring an impressive 8.2 meters in length and weighing about 25 tons, this colossal inscription was awe-inspiring. Its sheer size and the intricacy of its carvings hinted at the remarkable craftsmanship of…

During my visit to Polonnaruwa, one of the most awe-inspiring stops was the magnificent King Parakramabahu statue near the Pothgul Vihara complex, which overlooks the serene Parakrama Samudra Reservoir. As I approached the towering sculpture, I was struck by its imposing presence and intricate details, a testament to the artistry of the 12th-century craftsmen. History and Significance The statue, carved from a single rock, stands at an impressive 3.4 meters (11 feet 2 inches) tall. Historians attribute its creation to the reign of King Parakramabahu I, one of Sri Lanka's most revered rulers. Known for his visionary leadership, he unified…

When I first stepped into the serene surroundings of Pothgul Vehera, also known as Pothgul Viharaya, located in the historic city of Polonnaruwa, I was struck by its quiet elegance. The site, known as the oldest library complex in Sri Lanka, truly felt like a place where wisdom once thrived. The name "Pothgul," meaning a place to store books, instantly sparked curiosity about its historical significance. Historical Insights Dating back to the reign of King Parakramabahu the Great (1153–1185 AD), Pothgul Vehera is believed to have been a centre for storing ancient texts and manuscripts. The restoration efforts by Queen…

Nestled amidst the serene dry zone forest in the Polonnaruwa District, Medirigiriya Vatadage instantly transported me to a bygone era of architectural ingenuity and spiritual devotion. The journey to this historic site, hidden within a lush green canopy, was an adventure, building anticipation for what lay ahead. History Comes Alive Stepping onto the site, I was awestruck by the remarkable craftsmanship of this ancient marvel. Medirigiriya Vatadage believed to date back to the Anuradhapura era, was a creation of King Aggabodhi VI in the 7th century. According to the chronicles, the site flourished as a spiritual and healing centre, but…

During a recent exploration of Polonnaruwa’s rich heritage, I stood before the majestic Sathmahal Prasadaya. This seven-storied, pyramid-shaped stupa stands out distinctly amidst the ancient ruins, symbolising Sri Lanka's architectural ingenuity during the Polonnaruwa Period (11th - 13th century). The structure’s unique square design immediately caught my attention as I approached—an uncommon feature in Sri Lankan stupas. A Rare Architectural Marvel Sathmahal Prasadaya is one of only four known square-shaped stupas in Sri Lanka, with its counterparts located in the ancient city of Anuradhapura. Its symmetrical design and intriguing pyramid-like shape are unlike the more common bell-shaped stupas scattered across…

Stepping into the ancient hospital complex in Polonnaruwa, I felt like I was travelling back when Sri Lanka was a beacon of advanced medical knowledge and compassion. Located within the historical precincts of Alahana Pirivena, the hospital is attributed to the visionary King Parakramabahu I, whose reign from 1153 to 1186 A.D. marked a golden era for public health and welfare. A Testament to Advanced Medieval Medicine As I wandered through the ruins, it was evident that this wasn’t just a hospital—it was a sophisticated medical facility well ahead of its time. The complex's layout, with living quarters surrounding a…