Polonnaruwa was the second ancient capital of Sri Lanka, serving as the seat of power from the 11th to 13th centuries CE, and is one of the country's most impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The ancient city contains some of the finest preserved ruins in all of Asia, built under the great Kings Vijayabahu I and Parakramabahu I — the legendary king who declared that not a drop of water falling from the sky should reach the sea without serving man. Highlights include the Gal Vihara — four magnificent rock-cut Buddha sculptures carved from a single granite face — the colossal Rankot Vihara stupa, the royal palace complex, the Vatadage circular relic house, and the vast Parakrama Samudra — one of the largest ancient irrigation reservoirs in the world. This immersive 360° virtual tour lets you explore the ancient city from your browser, completely free.
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