Explore the Majestic Royal Palace of King Maha Parakramabahu
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture at the Royal Palace of King Maha Parakramabahu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka.
A brief summary to Royal Palace of King Maha Parakramabahu
- W2V2+282, Polonnaruwa, LK
- +94272222121
- Monday 8 am-6:30 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-6:30 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-6:30 pm
- Thursday 8 am-6:30 pm
- Friday 8 am-6:30 pm
- Saturday 8 am-6:30 pm
- Sunday 8 am-6:30 pm
The Royal Palace of King Maha Parakramabahu, located in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, stands as a testament to the grandeur of Sri Lankan history. This historical landmark, built in the 12th century, served as the royal residence of King Maha Parakramabahu I, who was known for his significant contributions to the development of the kingdom. As you walk through the remnants of this once-magnificent palace, you'll be captivated by the intricate stone carvings and impressive architectural designs that showcase the skill of ancient artisans. The palace complex is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls and photography. Visitors can explore various structures within the palace, including the impressive audience hall and the king's quarters, each narrating stories of a glorious past. The site is not just a visual delight; it also holds significant cultural importance, as it reflects the zenith of Sri Lankan civilization during the medieval period. The Royal Palace is part of the Polonnaruwa Archaeological Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which adds to its allure for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike. After exploring the palace, you can dive deeper into the rich history of Polonnaruwa by visiting nearby attractions such as the Gal Vihara, renowned for its rock-cut Buddha statues. The Royal Palace of King Maha Parakramabahu is more than just a historical site; it’s a journey back in time that every traveler should experience when visiting Sri Lanka.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful exploration.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven surfaces within the ruins.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and serene landscapes.
- Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the site.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, head towards the Polonnaruwa District from your starting point. Once you reach the Polonnaruwa town center, look for signs leading to the archaeological sites. The Royal Palace of King Maha Parakramabahu is located at the coordinates 7.9425092 latitude and 81.0007671 longitude, specifically at the address W2V2+282, Polonnaruwa. Use a GPS navigation system or a maps application on your smartphone to guide you directly to this location. Parking is usually available nearby, but be prepared for a small fee, which can vary based on the season and demand.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, you can take a bus to Polonnaruwa from major cities like Colombo, Kandy, or Anuradhapura. Once you arrive at the Polonnaruwa bus station, you can hire a tuk-tuk (auto-rickshaw) or take a local bus that travels towards the archaeological sites. The tuk-tuk ride to the Royal Palace of King Maha Parakramabahu should take about 10-15 minutes and cost approximately 300-500 LKR. Make sure to show the driver a map or mention the Royal Palace to ensure they understand your destination.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby or prefer to walk, you can explore the area on foot. The Royal Palace is situated close to the main archaeological park. From the Polonnaruwa bus station, it's about a 20-30 minute walk. Head northeast from the bus station along the main road until you reach the entrance to the archaeological park. Once inside, follow the signs pointing to the Royal Palace of King Maha Parakramabahu, which is one of the main attractions in the park.
Attractions Nearby to Royal Palace of King Maha Parakramabahu
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Citadel 22
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Palace of King Vijayabahu the Great
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Council Chamber
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දීප උයන Recreational Park
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Deepa Uyana
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Kumara Pokuna - 32 (Pond)
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Archaeological Museum Complex
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Old Sluice (Nissankamalla' Bath)
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Palace of King Nishshanka Malla
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Citadel Rampart
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Parakrama Samudraya View Point
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Bathing place
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Archaeological Site Gate Polonnaruwa
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Polonnaruwa Ancient City
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පොළොන්නරුව උතුරු දොරටුව අසල පුවරු ලිපිය
