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Sigiriya Museum
1h · Admission ticket not included
This decent museum has a fine diorama of the site, providing an excellent overview and explaining Sigiriya's cultural importance beyond the obvious natural beauty. The theory that Sigiriya was a Buddhist monastery is given here, although the established position that it was a palace or fortress prevails. Trade routes are explained, showing Sigiriya's connections with the Gulf, China, India and the Roman Empire.
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Sigiriya Lion Rock
3h · Admission ticket not included
Sigiriya or Sinhagiri is an ancient rock fortress located in the northern Matale District near the town of Dambulla in the Central Province, Sri Lanka. The name refers to a site of historical and archaeological significance that is dominated by a massive column of rock nearly 200 metres high.
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Polonnaruwa Vatadage
1h 30m · Admission ticket not included
The Polonnaruwa Vatadage is an ancient structure dating back to the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa of Sri Lanka. It is believed to have been built during the reign of Parakramabahu I to hold the Relic of the tooth of the Buddha or during the reign of Nissanka Malla of Polonnaruwa to hold the alms bowl used by the Buddha
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Gal Vihara
30m · Admission ticket not included
The Gal Viharaya (Rock Temple) in Polonnaruwa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its colossal rock-cut Buddha statues. Carved from a single granite rock during the reign of King Parakramabahu I, the seated, standing, and reclining Buddha figures showcase exquisite craftsmanship and spiritual serenity2.
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Lankathilaka Image House
15m · Admission ticket not included
Lankathilaka Vihara is a majestic brick-built image house featuring a towering Buddha statue and intricate carvings. This 12th-century temple exemplifies Sinhalese architecture and is one of the most revered Buddhist shrines in Polonnaruwa.
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Rankoth Vehera
15m · Admission ticket not included
Rankoth Vehera is the largest stupa in Polonnaruwa, built by King Nissanka Malla. Its massive brick structure, inspired by Anuradhapura’s architectural style, stands as a symbol of Buddhist devotion and ancient engineering excellence.
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Polonnaruwa Vatadage
30m · Admission ticket not included
The Polonnaruwa Vatadage is a circular relic house built to protect the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. Located in the Dalada Maluwa complex, it features ornate stone carvings and four seated Buddha statues facing cardinal directions.
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Lotus Pond
15m · Admission ticket not included
The Nelum Pokuna or Lotus Pond is a beautifully designed stone pond shaped like a blooming lotus flower. This unique structure reflects the artistic ingenuity of ancient Sri Lankan hydraulic engineering and is a tranquil spot within the ancient city.
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Thivanka Image House
15m · Admission ticket not included
Thiwanka Image House is famed for its unique curved walls and the towering Buddha statue within. The interior walls are adorned with well-preserved frescoes depicting Jataka tales, making it a treasure trove of ancient Buddhist art.
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Samudra Parakrama
15m · Admission ticket included
Parakrama Samudraya is a vast man-made reservoir built by King Parakramabahu I. Spanning over 2,500 hectares, this engineering marvel was designed to “not let a single drop of rainwater flow into the sea,” showcasing ancient Sri Lanka’s advanced irrigation systems.
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Oak Ray Woodcarving
30m · Admission ticket included
Discover the artistry of traditional Sri Lankan wood carving at Oak Ray Wood Carving Center. Skilled artisans craft intricate statues, masks, furniture, and sculptures using teak, mahogany, and ebony, preserving centuries-old craftsmanship
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Premadasas Gems and Jewellery
30m · Admission ticket included
Explore the dazzling world of Sri Lankan gemstones at Premadasa Gems & Jewellers. Renowned for its exquisite collection of sapphires, diamonds, and pearls, this gem house offers high-quality jewelry, a gemological museum, and insights into the mining process
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Ranweli Spice Garden
30m · Admission ticket included
Discover Ayurvedic herbs and spices used in traditional healing and wellness
