Exploring the Majestic Summer Palace of King Parakramabahu I
Visit the Summer Palace of King Parakramabahu I in Polonnaruwa for a captivating journey through Sri Lanka's ancient royal heritage.
A brief summary to Summer Palace of king Parakramabahu I (සීත මාළිගාව)
- XX2W+44R, Polonnaruwa, LK
- +94272222222
Nestled in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, the Summer Palace of King Parakramabahu I, known locally as 'සිත් මාළිගාව', is an awe-inspiring relic of Sri Lanka's royal history. Constructed in the 12th century, this palace showcases the remarkable architectural achievements of the time, with its intricate stone carvings and grand structures that reflect the grandeur of the Sinhalese kingdom. As you wander through the well-preserved ruins, you can almost feel the echoes of history, where kings once roamed and made pivotal decisions that shaped the nation. Surrounded by lush gardens and tranquil water bodies, the site offers a serene atmosphere, perfect for both contemplation and exploration. The expansive grounds provide ample opportunities for photography, allowing you to capture the stunning remnants of the palace against the backdrop of the vibrant landscape. The ruins, while evocative of a bygone era, are also a reminder of the artistic and engineering prowess of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. Visiting the Summer Palace is not just an exploration of history; it is an immersive experience that connects you with the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. Be sure to take your time to appreciate the unique features of the palace, such as the impressive stone pillars and the remnants of the royal bath, which speak to the luxurious lifestyle of the kings. This location is a must-visit for any traveler seeking a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka's rich past and an appreciation for its heritage preservation efforts.
Local tips
- Plan your visit early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the site involves a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning architecture and scenic landscapes.
- Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the palace.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from the center of Polonnaruwa. Head east on Main Street (Galle Road) towards the Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum. Continue straight for about 2 kilometers until you reach the turn-off for the Summer Palace, which is marked by a sign. Turn left onto the access road, and you will see the entrance to the Summer Palace of King Parakramabahu I (සීත මාළිගාව) on your right. Parking is available near the entrance but be aware that a small fee may be charged for parking.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Summer Palace via public transportation, take a local bus heading towards the Polonnaruwa bus station. From the bus station, you can either walk or take a tuk-tuk to the Summer Palace. If walking, head east on Main Street towards the Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum, then follow the directions mentioned for car travel. A tuk-tuk ride from the bus station will cost around LKR 200-300 and will take approximately 10 minutes to reach the Summer Palace.
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Tuk-tuk
If you prefer a more direct route, hire a tuk-tuk from anywhere in Polonnaruwa. You can ask the driver to take you to the Summer Palace of King Parakramabahu I (සීත මාළිගාව). Ensure to negotiate the fare beforehand; it should cost around LKR 300-500 depending on your starting point. The journey will typically take about 10-15 minutes.
Attractions Nearby to Summer Palace of king Parakramabahu I (සීත මාළිගාව)
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Old Sluice of Parakrama Samudraya
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Western Entrance of the Sacred Quadrangle
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Thuparama Image House - 31(Image of Boddhisathwa)
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Polonnaruwa Siva Devale No.4
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Nissanka Lata Mandapa
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Hatadage
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Dalada Maluva - ( Polonnaruwa)
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Polonnaruwa Ancient City
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Vatadage
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Archaeological Site Gate Polonnaruwa
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Sathmahal Prasadaya (සත්මහල් ප්රාසාදය) - 51
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Palace of King Nishshanka Malla
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Polannaruwa historical place
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Polonnaruwa Sivan Kovil
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Polonnaruwa Siva Devale No.7
