Polonnaruwa

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Polonnaruwa, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a city of medieval ruins in northeast Sri Lanka. Once the thriving capital of Sri Lanka from the 11th to the 13th century, Polonnaruwa stands as a testament to the island's historical significance and remarkable ancient architecture. The ruins, well-preserved and extensive, showcase the grandeur of the Sinhalese civilization, where both religious and royal structures have been uncovered, demonstrating the development in urban planning and water management.

Among its notable landmarks is the Quadrangle, a collection of significant ruins, including the Vatadage, a circular relic house, showcasing exquisite stone carvings. The Gal Vihara is famed for its massive rock-carved Buddha statues, displaying exquisite craftsmanship of the 12th century. Another essential site is the Rankoth Vehera, the largest stupa in Polonnaruwa, which marks the zenith of Sinhalese stupas.

Geographically, Polonnaruwa is located on the east-central plains of Sri Lanka, where its proximity to the large Parakrama Samudra, an artificial lake built by King Parakramabahu I, highlights the advanced ancient irrigation systems. The climate is typically tropical, with a wet season from November to January and a dry season from May to September, making it a year-round travel destination with mild temperatures.

Culturally, Polonnaruwa stands as a venue for understanding the Buddhist heritage of Sri Lanka. Visitors during the Poya holidays can witness a surge in religious activities as locals partake in spiritual offerings and rituals.

A unique feature of Polonnaruwa is the ancient 'mirror wall', which, according to legend, was once polished so perfectly that the king could see his reflection as he walked alongside it. Architecturally innovative, this site provides insight into the combined influence of South Indian and Buddhist traditions.

An interesting fact is that the Malayalam movie 'Asoka' featuring Bollywood actor Shahrukh Khan was filmed amidst these ruins, underscoring its cinematic allure. A visitor to Polonnaruwa can embark on a journey through history, exploring a once-thriving metropolis that seamlessly blends nature and architecture.