Four Buddha images carved into a single granite rock face in the 12th century under King Parakramabahu I, including a 14-metre reclining Buddha and a 7-metre standing figure. The precision of the carving, down to the folds in the robes and the expression on the faces, marks the high point of Sinhalese rock sculpture. Most visitors spend longer here than planned. It is at Polonnaruwa New Town, close to the other main sights. It ranks among Polonnaruwa's most visited sights, and for good reason - most itineraries include it on day one.
What It Is
You approach a long grey rock face and the four figures emerge gradually as you walk its length. Barefoot on warm stone, you stand close enough to see individual chisel marks in the granite.
Why Visit
This is the single image most people picture when they think of Polonnaruwa, and it holds up in person. That puts it near the top of any Polonnaruwa visit, and it deserves the spot. Combine it with Rankoth Vehera and Royal Palace of Parakramabahu - they are close enough to walk between and together make the strongest half-day in Polonnaruwa.
More on Polonnaruwa
You will find it in Polonnaruwa New Town. See where it ranks among the things to do in Polonnaruwa. The Polonnaruwa guide covers transport, costs and when to go.
We plan trips to Polonnaruwa and the rest of Sri Lanka. Tell us your dates and we will put a route together. Our routes are on the tours page.
