Polonnaruwa is Sri Lanka's second metropolis of the old kingdom Rajarata. Today only the ruins of the royal palace can be seen here.

One of the most beautiful Hindu temples is the Shiva Devale number 1, which is located north of the Royal Palace. It probably served the Tamil community as a place of worship.

To the north is the "Holy Square" with some impressive monuments. The entrance to the central Dagoba of the temple Vatadage itself fascinates every visitor. There are also the temple Hatadage, the "House of 60 Relics" and Samthmahal Prasada.

Further north is Alahana Parivena, the monastery at the cremation place.

On a nearby small hill stands the biggest statue house of Sri Lanka. Lankatilaka is a massive brick building with a richly decorated staircase leading to its entrance.

The rock temple Gal Vihara with its four Buddha statues is located in the far north and is the remaining part of the monastery complex Utturarama.

The northern end of the explored area is formed by the Tivanka Statue House...

Polonnaruwa is Sri Lanka's story of the Singalese Kingdom.