One of the best Archeo sites in Sri Lanka 🇱🇰. Very ancient and has really nice places. Will need about 2 days to cover all in time, but can be done in 1 day as well. The main complex is the best and probably the most beautiful ancient architecture in the country. The round bldg with 4 statues on 4 sides and the other temples are a treat to explore. Even the rock cut Buddha statues further ahead are a wonder.

Polonnaruwa is an ancient kingdom. You can see lots of ruin when you visit there. Among them 'Polonnaruwa Gal Vihara' is very attractive and historically very valuable. The main feature of the temple is four rock relief statues of the Buddha have been carved into a large granite rock. It is a great work who has done in Polonnaruwa kindom. Few people be there. They will give you a better explanation. Vehicle parking and all kind of facilities have provided there. But bring some water. In these days the place is very hot. Go and see our great history.

Originally called the Uttararama, the Gal Vihara is a Buddhist rock temple located in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, which is now the modern-day Polonnaruwa in North Central Province, Sri Lanka. Polonnaruwa was the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Polonnaruwa. King Parakramabahu I fashioned it in the 12th century. Four Buddha rock relief statues that have been carved into the face of a sizable granite gneiss rock serve as the temple's main focal point. The pictures show a big sitting figure, a smaller one sitting inside a made-out cave, a standing figure, and a reclining person. These are considered to be some of the best examples of ancient Sinhalese sculpting and carving arts, and have made the Gal Vihara the most visited monument at Polonnaruwa.

The Gal Vihara (Rock temple/Rock monastery) a.k.a Uttararama is a 12th CE rock temple built by King Parakramabahu I. The temple is situated in Polonnaruwa and is a chief tourist draw in the region. The temple has three large statues of the Buddha carved into a single granite rock face. The site also has a smaller statute also carved next to the larger statue in an artificial cave termed Vidhyadhara Guhawa. Foreign tourists would need to secure tickets to see the site at the Polonnaruwa Museum (next to the Bund Rd). The tickets include access to other sites in Polonnaruwa. The area is frequented by toque macaques and Hanuman langurs.

A must to see in Polonnaruwa. The history of this place is amazing with relics dating back to the 7c. We went in May 23 and even then the place is hot, be prepared for hot feet when entering some of the sacred areas but you must experience it all from then smallest of ruin to the grandeur of the carved in rock monuments. A truly unique and beautiful place

A great place to visit a lot of knowledge for children and very nice ancient statues and relics, you have the 3 statues of Lord buddah and there are people for tell the stories of the place they are absolutely fascinating but there are some monkeys if you are very scared of them but they are not a trouble or anything like that. It's just a very good place for anyone to visit.

Gal Wiharaya, the ancient monument built by the great king Maha Parakramabahu between 1153 to 1186. The place has included into list of world heritage sites due to the undeniable, undoubted stone sculpture technology of our good-old ancient ancestors. Visit and enjoy the scenic view. #mysrilanka #visitsrilanka #stonesculpture

We had an amazing day visiting this vast site. Be warned, if you plan to walk this site, please try and do so on a not so hot day! You can really spend hours here. You can rent a bicycle to get around the place or if you have a driver, they can take you from point to point. I truly don’t think the $25 dollars is expensive at all for what you get to see. Tickets must be purchased at the museum not too far from the site. Please also remember to be respectful. No hats and shoes inside holy areas and no pictures with your back to Buddha. Unfortunately we saw too many tourists do this, but everything is clearly signed! Definitely worth the day trip if you have the time.

Gal Viharaya, originally known as Uttararamaya is a rock temple in the ancient kingdom of Polonnaruwa. The main feature of this place is the four images of Buddha that have been carved on a single large granite rock. The images consist of a large seated figure, another smaller seated figure inside an artificial cavern, a standing figure, and a reclining figure. This was made by King Parakramabahu. Wheelchairs available near the entrance of this place and wheelchair accessible road available for needy people. Crowded in weekends and public holidays.

One of the best Archeo sites in Sri Lanka . really nice places. Will need about 2 days to cover all in time, but can be done in 1 day as well. The main complex is the best and probably the most beautiful ancient architecture in the country. The round bldg with 4 statues on 4 sides and the other temples are a treat to explore. Even the rock cut Buddha statues further ahead are a wonder.

Gal Viharaya, originally known as Uttararamaya is a rock temple in the ancient kingdom of Polonnaruwa. The main feature of this place is the four images of Buddha that have been carved on a single large granite rock. The images consist of a large seated figure, another smaller seated figure inside an artificial cavern, a standing figure, and a reclining figure. This was made by King Parakramabahu. Wheelchairs available near the entrance of this place and wheelchair accessible road available for needy people. Crowded in weekends and public holidays.

Polonnaruwa Gal vihara contains most beautiful rock statues of Lord Buddha which reveals the talent of the old workers and the technology. we visit at night and the lightings created a different ambient, may be its totally different in day time. A place that is a must for a visit if you are visiting Polonnaruwa. have to walk around 500 m from parking lot

A great place to visit and observe for all lovers of ancient sculpture and buddhist artistic creations. You need to spend several hours, ideally early morning or in the evening, here to observe the detail. The more you observe, more you will realize the artistic talent of the creators and beauty of creations. There are several guides around, English speaking, who are capable of explaining the historical background and details of creations. The authorities can do more to improve the visitor facilities and to provide guidance/information specially to the foreign tourists. Strongly advised against visiting during the day time (unless in the rainy season) due to hot weather. No tickets required for locals.

All part of the extensive old Royal Palace the Gal Vihara sculptures in Polonnaruwa are significant as they are considered some of the finest examples of Buddhist sculpture in Sri Lanka. They showcase the skill and craftsmanship of the ancient Sri Lankan artists. It takes a long time to visit the Palace ruins but this area is wonderful.

This is Polonnaruwa's Uttararama or Galvihara, a magnificent creation. I actually looked at the trio of idols without batting an eye. In fact, I still can't believe how those emotions were harvested on that rock. The other opinion about the standing statue and the reclining statue is that "Ananda Thero was shocked to see Buddha's parinirvana". See for yourself. Emotions evoked by those eyes. There are no words to write this Google review.

rock temple of the Buddha situated in the ancient city Polonnaruwa, the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Polonnaruwa, fashioned in the 12th century by King Parakramabahu I. The central feature of the temple is four rock relief statues of the Buddha, which have been carved into the face of a large granite gneiss rock.

There are three statues that are of great interest, as it depicts the Lord Buddha in three unique positions. The seated statue shows the Buddha depicting the Dhyana mudra, while the reclining statue depicts the Parinirvana position, and is one of the most intricately sculpted statues, as the depression of the pillow, along with the lotus symbol on the side is still very visible even to this day. The standing image, on the other hand, is believed to be the Lord Buddha depicting an unusual gesture, which has led many archaeologists to believe that it is not the depiction of the Buddha, but his disciple Ananda. The Gal Vihara, sometimes known as the ‘Uttaramaya’ (Northern Temple), is also believed to have once been covered in frescoes of intriguing nature, however, has long been destroyed due to the Chola invasions that took place in the 14th century.

you find the parking bit difficult here since this is basically the last parking lot for the whole tour. However, can park along the road if parking place is occupied. you need to walk a bit to reach the temple. There are four carved postures of lord buddha and the amount of details in the carvings is amazing.

Massive structure that houses a giant statue of buddha. Unfortunately, just like all other sites in Polonaruwa, the site is not protected at all and its days are counted. You can tell that the inside walls used to have colors and that the flanks of the structure had carvings. Unfortunately not much is left.

Lankatilaka Vihara is one of the most emblematic structures of the ancient kingdom of Polonnaruwa.

Evidence was found that it was possible to perform head worship in this temple. Faded murals were also seen and the face of the Buddha statue was also destroyed.

Lankathilaka Viharaya is an image house built by the Great King Parakramabahu. It is one of the masterpieces which depicts the architecture and sculpture during Polonnaruwa era. It is believed to be a five storeyed building, whereas only the ruins of four storeys are visible now.

There was a lot more to this place where i could not cover up.

The Lankatilaka Temple is a historically and culturally significant religious site located in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. It is one of the most prominent and well-preserved temples in the area, known for its architectural beauty and historical importance. Here's what you should know about the Lankatilaka Temple: 1. History: The Lankatilaka Temple was built during the Polonnaruwa period, which spanned from the 11th to the 13th century. It was constructed during the reign of King Parakramabahu I (1153-1186 AD), a period marked by great cultural and architectural achievements. 2. Architectural Style: The temple showcases a unique blend of South Indian Dravidian architecture and Sinhalese architectural elements. The building has a three-storied structure and is characterized by its massive brick walls, intricate stone carvings, and an elegant image house. 3. Image House: The Lankatilaka Temple's image house is one of its most striking features. Inside, there was once a colossal statue of the meditating Buddha, but much of it has deteriorated over time. The structure is known for its finely detailed moonstones and ornate pillars. 4. Moonstones and Carvings: The temple's moonstone (sandakada pahana) and guardstones (dvarapala) at the entrance are adorned with intricate carvings depicting various motifs and scenes from Buddhist mythology. The moonstone, in particular, is a masterpiece of Sinhalese art. 5. Religious Significance: Like many structures in Polonnaruwa, the Lankatilaka Temple was a place of Buddhist worship and meditation. It served as a center for religious activities and rituals. 6. Location: The temple is situated in close proximity to other significant historical sites within the Polonnaruwa archaeological complex. 7. Preservation: Conservation efforts have been made to protect and preserve the temple's historical and architectural value. The Lankatilaka Temple is not only a testament to the architectural and artistic achievements of ancient Sri Lanka but also a site of religious and cultural significance. It attracts visitors, historians, and art enthusiasts interested in exploring the rich heritage of Polonnaruwa and its contributions to Buddhist art and architecture.

Lankathilaka image house is the largest image house in Sri Lanka build by king Parakramabahu the great. The name Lankathilaka has been derived as this image house is a pride to whole Sri Lanka. The image house is considered to be covered with paintings like in Thivanka image house but those are deteriorated..

Without writing something what learned about this place , I can’t leave. Lankatilaka Image house is considered to be the largest image house built in ancient Sri Lanka. According to history, the building had five stories and this image house had been decorated with paintings which was constructed by King Prakramabahu and is to the south of Kiri Vehera. The site features a tall statue of buddha as a well as a stupa and This buddha statue is 42 feet in height. The entrance to the image house is flanked by two huge pillars also made of bricks. The bricks used were specially made for the purpose of constructing the statue, but sadly today the part above the shoulders has been completely destroyed. I had different feelings when I visited there. This is totally different from other historical places in Sri lanka and it will give very unique photographs. respect the history.

Lankatilaka Viharaya is an impressive stone building with huge statue in it, be sure to walk to the back of it and take in the immense structure. There are some amazing pools and terraces covered in moss as there are some trees in this area making it a little cooler. I also saw a pretty large lizard here although it was a bit skittish.

Lankatilaka Temple is a world away from the hustle and bustle of Sri Lanka's major tourist spots. Set amidst lush greenery and towering trees, the atmosphere here is peaceful and contemplative. Perfect for those seeking a spiritual escape. The temple complex has several interesting features, including a large reclining Buddha statue and a collection of ancient stone carvings. There's also a beautiful lotus pond that adds to the tranquility of the place. Lankatilaka Temple is a hidden gem for those seeking a tranquil escape and a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich history. The serene setting, interesting ruins, and unique features make it a worthwhile visit. However, be prepared for a bit of an adventure to get there, limited amenities, and a site that might require some historical context to fully appreciate.

Huge Buddha statue, headless. Lots of historic ruins.

It is an ancient wonder of Sri Lanka...must watch place in Sri Lanka..reflect how Buddhist architecture was shining in 1000 years ago

This beautiful Stupa House (Vatadage) has been built before the time of Nissanga Malla (1187-1196) but he has carried out major renovations on this building. So what you see today is probably his work. The uniqueness of such buildings is that the Stupa is protected by a roof. Therefore Stupa’s in such buildings are small. Another beautiful “Vatadage” is situated in Madirigiriya few kilometers away from Polonnaruwa. A detail description of the overall “Stupaghara” or “Chethiyaghara” architecture including vatadages of Sri Lanka can be found here. On the centre is a small stupa and on the four sides, there are beautifully carved Buddha statues. These statues are different to what is normally found. The curly hair is not visible on the head. And the robe is also flat which is unusual. The roof has been supported by two rows of stone pillars around the Stupa. None of the pillars are visible today. But the pillars outside the walls are still intact. Four sets of beautifully carved stone stairs lead the upper level from four sides. On the side of stair case some of most beautiful guard stones and moonstones in this area can be seen. The guard stones on the eastern side of the temple is said to be the best guard stone in t he Polonnaruwa period. The moonstones in the Polonnaruwa era had undergone a major change compared to the Anuradhapura moonstones. The most visible is the disappearance of the bull in the carvings. (See Pancavasa with the Moonstone for a brief description of moonstones in Anuradhapura era.) Where the moonstones originally had four animals – the elephant, the horse, the lion, the bull, now only three remain. Bull is the vehicle of God Shiva (according to Hindu beliefs) and is considered a holy animal by Hindu’s. Probably for this reason, it has been taken off the moonstone where everybody who enters the temple tramples. Instead the bull has been placed on the side of the stairways at a higher elevation in some places.

Visiting a spiritual site for a a few days is the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate ☺️. Sri Lankan one of tourists place in Polanaruwa.

The Polonnaruwa Vatadage is one of the most iconic and significant archaeological sites in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. It is a circular relic house or stupa shrine that was built during the reign of King Parakramabahu I (1153-1186 AD), a period known for its great cultural and architectural achievements. The Polonnaruwa Vatadage holds a central place in the city's sacred architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Key features and information about the Polonnaruwa Vatadage: Circular Design: The Vatadage is known for its circular design, a typical feature of Vatadages in Sri Lanka. Its circular layout represents the concept of eternity and the unending cycle of samsara in Buddhism. Central Stupa: In the center of the Vatadage stands a stupa, which is a dome-like structure that houses relics, often associated with the Buddha or other revered figures. The central stupa is surrounded by a circular terrace. Four Entrances: The Polonnaruwa Vatadage has four entrances, each facing one of the cardinal directions. These entrances are adorned with intricately carved moonstones, guardstones, and sculpted doorways. The moonstones typically feature exquisite carvings depicting scenes from Buddhist cosmology. Guardstones: Guardstones are stone sculptures placed on either side of the entrances. They depict protective figures or deities and are meant to ward off evil spirits. Outer Wall: The Vatadage is enclosed by an outer wall, which serves as an additional protective layer for the sacred relics and the central stupa. The outer wall features elaborate carvings and decorations. Decorative Carvings: The entire structure is adorned with a variety of decorative carvings, including images from Buddhist stories, lotus petals, and other intricate motifs. The Polonnaruwa Vatadage is not only an architectural marvel but also an important religious site. It was built to house and protect sacred relics, making it a revered location for Buddhist worship. Visitors can explore the site and admire its historical and artistic significance, as it offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of ancient Sri Lanka.

The Polonnaruwa Vatadage has been built around a small stupa with a base diameter of 27 ft. 8 inches. The Vatadage has two platform- the lower and the raised upper platform. The lower platform is 120 ft. in diameter and has a height of 4 ft. 3 inches from the ground level while the upper platform is 80 ft. in diameter and has a height of 5 ft. 3 inches from the lower platform.

The nicest sight in the ancient city. The circular structure with its staircase leading the statues of buddhas is really impressive. Too bad nothing is being done to preserve it ... Visit it while it's still standing.

Ancient temple ruins with a unique circular shape. Once has been housed the sacred tooth relic of lord Buddha.

This location is the second stop when you start from the palace at the far south. parking is not a concern in any of the places as there are ample parking available. after you enter the place, you need to remove your hats and shoes. There are four entrances to the stupa and entire place is built from the bricks. can see the moonstones at every entrance.

The Polonnaruwa Vatadage is one of the most iconic and significant archaeological sites in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. It is a circular relic house or stupa shrine that was built during the reign of King Parakramabahu I (1153-1186 AD), a period known for its great cultural and architectural achievements. The Polonnaruwa Vatadage holds a central place in the city's sacred architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Key features and information about the Polonnaruwa Vatadage: Circular Design: The Vatadage is known for its circular design, a typical feature of Vatadages in Sri Lanka. Its circular layout represents the concept of eternity and the unending cycle of samsara in Buddhism. Central Stupa: In the center of the Vatadage stands a stupa, which is a dome-like structure that houses relics, often associated with the Buddha or other revered figures. The central stupa is surrounded by a circular terrace. Four Entrances: The Polonnaruwa Vatadage has four entrances, each facing one of the cardinal directions. These entrances are adorned with intricately carved moonstones, guardstones, and sculpted doorways. The moonstones typically feature exquisite carvings depicting scenes from Buddhist cosmology. Guardstones: Guardstones are stone sculptures placed on either side of the entrances. They depict protective figures or deities and are meant to ward off evil spirits. Outer Wall: The Vatadage is enclosed by an outer wall, which serves as an additional protective layer for the sacred relics and the central stupa. The outer wall features elaborate carvings and decorations. Decorative Carvings: The entire structure is adorned with a variety of decorative carvings, including images from Buddhist stories, lotus petals, and other intricate motifs. The Polonnaruwa Vatadage is not only an architectural marvel but also an important religious site. It was built to house and protect sacred relics, making it a revered location for Buddhist worship. Visitors can explore the site and admire its historical and artistic significance, as it offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of ancient Sri Lanka.

Vatadagaya considered as one of the iconic monument in Polonnaruwa. Can enter from 4 sides and 4 statues of Buddha is facing each direction. In the midde there is a stupa. This must have been covered by a brick wall where the remains can be seen.

Although it is in ruins today, I thought that it must have been very well developed before.

One of the oldest & most beautiful monuments in Polonnaruwa. As with many other vatadage, it had a stupa in the centre with four Buddha images facing the cardinal directions. Most important thing is the remaining structure of this historical place that is giving unique view in fact it gives the modern audience an incredible view of what a complete vatadage would actually have looked like. I had the feeling like time travel to 1000 years ago and you also visit this place and share your thought how it would be feels to you.

This beautiful Stupa House (Vatadage) has been built before the time of Nissanga Malla (1187-1196) but he has carried out major renovations on this building. So what you see today is probably his work. The uniqueness of such buildings is that the Stupa is protected by a roof. Therefore Stupa’s in such buildings are small. Another beautiful “Vatadage” is situated in Madirigiriya few kilometers away from Polonnaruwa. A detail description of the overall “Stupaghara” or “Chethiyaghara” architecture including vatadages of Sri Lanka can be found here. On the centre is a small stupa and on the four sides, there are beautifully carved Buddha statues. These statues are different to what is normally found. The curly hair is not visible on the head. And the robe is also flat which is unusual. The roof has been supported by two rows of stone pillars around the Stupa. None of the pillars are visible today. But the pillars outside the walls are still intact. Four sets of beautifully carved stone stairs lead the upper level from four sides. On the side of stair case some of most beautiful guard stones and moonstones in this area can be seen. The guard stones on the eastern side of the temple is said to be the best guard stone in t he Polonnaruwa era. The moonstones in the Polonnaruwa era had undergone a major change compared to the Anuradhapura moonstones. The most visible is the disappearance of the bull in the carvings. (See Pancavasa with the Moonstone for a brief description of moonstones in Anuradhapura era.) Where the moonstones originally had four animals – the elephant, the horse, the lion, the bull, now only three remain. Bull is the vehicle of God Shiva (according to Hindu beliefs) and is considered a holy animal by Hindu’s. Probably for this reason, it has been taken off the moonstone where everybody who enters the temple tramples. Instead the bull has been placed on the side of the stairways at a higher elevation in some places.

The Sacred Quadrangle is a compact group of beautiful and impressive ruins within a raised up platform bounded by a wall. This is the most concentrated collection of buildings in the whole Ancient City, and a must-see for any visitor! In the middle of the Quadrangle is The Vatadage, a circular relic house typical of its kind. The outermost terrace is an impressive 18m in diameter and has four entrances all flanked by large guard stones in beautiful condition. The four entrances all lead to a central dagaba with four Buddhas.

Truly remarkable and well-maintained archaeological site, accessible by bike. The main problem remain the price of the entry ticket ($30) that is absolutely not proportional to the service provided. For this price, guided tours wouldn't be too much trouble ! In addition, the park is full of pushy salespeople who make the visit unpleasant...once again, why do we pay so much?  I really recommend visiting this park if you are interested in archeology and like old temples in a beautiful natural environment, but just know that the service provided is not worth the price

It's Very Popular Museum Among All Visiter Because Can Do the Tour Easyly After Study in the Museum 💐 Early We Had Lots of Facility With DvD & Video There.but Time to Time So Many Things Missing😊

The museum really adds to a visit to the ancient city and all that comes with it. It doesn't have aircon though, so be careful on very hot days. The exhibits 'spoil' a lot of what you can see and explore outside, so I'd recommend visiting it after you visit the complex.

Very large ancient city, you can spend the whole day in there. We've visited under the rain and there were very little people apart from us, so at some points it felt like Indiana Jones movies :) Quite expensive entrance ticket, but it's a large complex to preserve. Museum is informative but needs some modernisation. Note: if you want to go out for lunch and come back, don't let them put a stamp on your ticket, when you exit (it would say that it cancels the ticket).

In Museum you need to by the tickets for you visit to Ancient City. Again 30 USD ripp-off but you can't get around if you want to see the place. Plus a guide which offer themselves at parking area quite aggressively. Museum is ok to go before to get some basic information thus no real need for a guide if you go with your driver. Museum does not allow you to take pics as they want to sell there books in shop. Regarding site .... go very early due to heat as you need to take off shoes and burn your feet while walking in old temple ruins. I was not too impressed. For 5 USD ok, but for 30 USD i expect at least guided tours for free.

Skip the museum, just get your tickets from here and go and see the real ruins themselves. Don’t accept a guide. Definitely hire bicycles from the main road nearby to get around each ruin more quickly for 600lkr each.

No photography allowed inside the museum. Always good and recommended to take a guided tour. Very interesting and a valuable place of history.

A well kept museum of articrafts and models of polonnauwa kingdom. Photography is not allowed in the museum but the articrafts are very beautiful. the photographs can be purchased from the souvinier store

Eventhough many do not visit this place, I believe this should be the first place that you should start the journey. Entrance ticket for a local is 100 rupees and you are not allowed to take any photos, videos of the items inside. you can read and see all the key details related to the ancient city and based on the underatanding its better to visit the sacred city which is just opposite the main road. ample parking is available.

Statue of Parakramabahu I, located near the Pothgul Vehera in Polonnaruwa is a stone sculpture dating back to the Polonnaruwa period of ancient Sri Lanka. Its identity is uncertain, although the widely accepted theory is that it is a statue of Parakramabahu I. However, it has also been suggested as the statue of a sage. Carved on a large boulder, the statue depicts a majestic figure with a grave expression, holding a book or yoke in his hands. Height of the statue is about 3.4 meters.

Built in 12 CE the statue is purported to be of King Parakramabahu I of Polonnaruwa. Scholars generally agree with the aforementioned identity of the statue but alternative identies of the statues include that of Sage Agastya or Pulasthi. The statue is located close to the Potgul Vehera archeological site.

The statue of Parakramabahu I is one of the best stone sculptures belonging to the Polonnaruwa period. The 11-foot-2-inch-high (3.40 m) statue is carved in high relief on a large boulder, with full use being made of its height. Its upper body is bare except for a single thread worn over the left shoulder.

This is an identified statue.. There are several opinions about the statue. One of them is this is the statue of Great King Parakramabahu. It is the most popular opinion. Another one is this is the statue of ' Pulasthi Rishi'.

A Ancient place in sri lanka located near to polonnaruwa city.

Must visit place in Polonnaruwa. Situated near located near the Pothgul Vehera in Polonnaruwa is a stone sculpture dating back to the Polonnaruwa period of ancient Sri Lanka.

Need to visit with a proper guide for the full explanintation of this statue.

Rishi Pulasthi Statue- polonnaruwa on the banks of between Bendiwewa and Parakrama samudra lake in an area known as pothgul pedesa( place) there is a 11ft 6 inches statue fine carved in to a granite boulder which is in magnificiant state. this was ealier known as king Parakrama bahu statue due to the fact that the statue lies closer to the lake built by him, but now has been identified as rishi Pulasthis as there is abrahminical sacred thread running from left shoulder accoross the body and an ola leaf book in its hands. Rishi Pulasthi is said to be the great grand father of king Rawana who is a scholar and the statue is directly facing the poth gul vehera (which means book hall building), also confirms the new belief The statue was done in king Parakramabahus era in the 12th centuryAD

Located about 3km away from the ancient city of polonnaruwa. This is a masterpiece of a statue. There are two stories about the identity of the person in the statue. Some believe that this is a statue of the great king Parakramabahu who built the city of Polonnaruwa. Other believe that this statue is of a sage (wise man). The reason for believing that this statue is of a sage is because the personality of the statue does not resemble a king and the statue is holding a book on the palms.

Situated approximately 3 kilometers from the historic city of Polonnaruwa stands an extraordinary masterpiece of sculpture. This statue has captivated the imagination of many, prompting two intriguing narratives surrounding the identity of the figure it portrays. One school of thought asserts that this imposing statue represents none other than the renowned King Parakramabahu, the visionary ruler responsible for the construction of the magnificent city of Polonnaruwa. Supporters of this interpretation argue that the regal bearing and majesty conveyed by the sculpture align perfectly with the grandeur associated with a king of his stature. Conversely, an alternative belief has emerged, suggesting that the statue actually embodies a sage or wise man. Proponents of this perspective point to the statue's distinct lack of royal characteristics, arguing that its demeanor and countenance do not align with the typical portrayal of a king. Additionally, the presence of a book delicately cradled in the figure's palms serves as a compelling symbol of knowledge and enlightenment, reinforcing the notion of a sage-like persona. Both interpretations offer intriguing insights into the enigmatic nature of this remarkable statue. While one narrative honors the influential monarch who shaped Polonnaruwa, the other contemplates the presence of a sagacious individual imparting wisdom. Regardless of the true identity encapsulated within this sculpted form, it undoubtedly serves as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage that thrives in this region, inviting visitors to ponder the multifaceted stories etched within its magnificent stone structure.

The king`s Audience Hall is one of the best-preserved structures in the Royal Palace Group, with beautiful stone carved elephants on the walls. The Audience Hall. Each elephant is in a different position and looks different from the other. Beautiful stone carved elephants on the walls of the Audience Hall. It was incredible warm this day, especially around noon, so I had to buy me a lovely hat. Don`t I look fashionable? 🙂 The stairs to the Audience Hall was pretty impressive, with beautiful lions on the top of each side.

We arrived at Polonnaruwa on the night of December 16 and started visiting the historical places of Polonnaruwa on December 17. The first thing we visited was the Parakumba statue. Others say that this is the idol of Sage Pulasti. It rained a little that morning, but after a while it returned to normal. This statue is created on Nice rock. It is not possible to say whose idol this is. I think this is a king statue.

Sri Lanka is full of such ancient runes that signify the rich cultural heritage that it holds. Pothgul Vihara is one such place which was also established during the origin times of the island nation. Just another place which can be explored around to see the ancient artifacts and the way they are integrated with the natural habitat. Located on the backdrop of the beautiful Parakrama Samudhra, this place is an absolute treat.

The statue near the Potgul Vihara at Polonnaruva has been considered as an excellent work of art. However, the identification of the statue has hitherto been ambiguous though it has been attempted to identify either as a king or a sage by various scholars with different perspectives. The traditional belief is that the statue is a depiction of the king Parakramabahu the Great who ruled the Island from the Polonnaruva kingdom. The object held on both hands of the statue has been considered as an ola book and the name assigned to the nearby monastery, Potgul Vihara (Monastic Library) is taken to reinforce this popular belief.