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King Parakramabahu the Great: Architect of Sri Lanka’s Golden Age – By Bhanuka – eLanka King Parakramabahu the Great, who reigned from 1153 to 1186 AD, is one of the most revered monarchs in Sri Lankan history. His era is often referred to as the golden age of Sri Lanka, characterized by unprecedented advancements in agriculture, architecture, and international relations. His visionary leadership and strategic brilliance transformed the island nation, creating a legacy that continues to be celebrated today. Parakramabahu was born into the royal family during a time of political instability and fragmentation in Sri Lanka. The island was divided among various regional rulers, each vying for power. His rise to the throne was marked by a series of strategic alliances, military campaigns, and diplomatic maneuvers. His determination and tactical acumen eventually led to the unification of Sri Lanka under a single ruler, ushering in an era of peace ...

Jul 30, 2024 Posted by eLanka admin In Articles, Bhanuka Nuwan Tagged ancient Ceylon, Ancient Sri Lanka, Ceylon history, Golden Age of Sri Lanka, irrigation systems in sri lanka, King Parakramabahu, Parakrama Samudra, Parakramabahu achievements, Parakramabahu the Great, Polonnaruwa, Sri Lankan agriculture, Sri Lankan architecture, Sri Lankan history, Sri Lankan kings, Sri Lankan monarchs

The Archaeology of Polonnaruwa: A Journey Through Sri Lanka’s Medieval Capital-by Kalani-eLanka Polonnaruwa, a city steeped in history and archaeological significance, served as the second capital of Sri Lanka after the fall of Anuradhapura in 993 AD. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, is renowned for its well-preserved ruins of ancient structures and monuments that reflect the grandeur and architectural prowess of the medieval Sinhalese civilization. Polonnaruwa’s rise to prominence began in the 10th century AD, during the reign of the Chola dynasty. However, it was under King Vijayabahu I (1055-1110 AD) that Polonnaruwa became the capital of the Sinhalese kingdom, following the liberation from Chola rule. The city reached its zenith under King Parakramabahu I (1153-1186 AD), whose reign marked a period of extensive construction and development. 1. Royal Palace Complex The Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu I is one of ...

Jul 27, 2024 Posted by eLanka admin In Articles, Kalani Prabodha Tagged Ancient Architecture, Archaeological Sites, Historical Structures, Hydraulic Engineering, Irrigation System, King Parakramabahu I, King Vijayabahu I, Polonnaruwa, Unesco World Heritage Site, Water management

Gal Viharaya: A Gem of Polonnaruwa’s Ancient Splendor-by kalani-eLanka Nestled within the ancient city of Polonnaruwa in Sri Lanka, the Gal Viharaya (also known as the Rock Temple) stands as a testament to the island’s rich cultural and religious heritage. This remarkable site, dating back to the 12th century, showcases some of the finest examples of ancient Sinhalese rock carving and is a significant landmark in the history of Buddhist art. The Gal Viharaya was commissioned by King Parakramabahu I during his reign in the Polonnaruwa period (1153-1186 AD). Polonnaruwa, during this era, was a flourishing city and a hub of religious, cultural, and economic activities. The king’s ambitious vision was to create a place that reflected the spiritual zenith of the time, and the Gal Viharaya was a central part of this vision. The Gal Viharaya is renowned for its four impressive Buddha statues, which are carved into a ...

Jun 24, 2024 Posted by eLanka admin In Articles Tagged Buddhist philosophy, Gal Viharaya, King Parakramabahu, Polonnaruwa, UNESCO world heritage

SRI LANKA NEWS (JULY 2023) Compiled by Victor Melder. Sri Lanka›s tourism industry continues to thrive as arrivals have exceeded 600,000, showcasing the resilience and appeal of the country as a travel destination. Despite being the off-peak season, the daily average of tourist arrivals has shown remarkable improvement, exceeding 3,200 visitors. This upward trend in tourist footfall further underscores the growing interest in Sri Lanka as a preferred destination among global travelers. During the first 26 days of the month, 84,003 visitors have arrived in the country, with only 3,518 arrivals required to achieve the monthly target of 87,521. “The surpassing of the 600,000 tourist arrival milestone signifies the resilience of Sri Lanka›s tourism sector and its ability to bounce back from the challenges faced in recent years. It is a testament to the concerted efforts made to revitalize the industry, showcasing Sri Lanka›s immense potential as a top travel ...

Aug 5, 2023 Posted by eLanka admin In Articles, Victor Melder Tagged Colombo, Polonnaruwa, SRI LANKA NEWS, Sri Lankan workers, Sri Lanka›s tourism, Tea Plantations, Victor Melder

Buduruwayaya archaeological site – hidden historical treasure – By Arundathie Abeysinghe Located in the south west of *Wasgamuwa National Park, approximately six kilometers from Bakamuna town in Polonnaruwa District of North Central Province and situated amidst spectacular vistas of paddy fields spread endlessly, blending into breathtaking mountains, Buduruwayaya archaeology site is rarely visited by local and foreign tourists. Tropical dry mixed evergreen forest characterized by tall trees, including Weera (Drypetes sepiaria), Palu (Manikkara hexandra), Buruta (Satin – Chloroxylon Swietenia) Ehala (C. Fistula), Milla (Vitaex Pinanata) and Kaluwara (ebony- Diospyros Ebenum) including the endemic Galsiyambala (Dialium ovoideum) and engulfed by diverse endemic and dry zone vegetation, the forest is also home to many wild animals. Scholars are of the view that remains of several small rainwater reservoirs and ruins of Buddhist Temples, indicate that this region had been a well-developed village, many years ago. According to archaeologists, the ruins date to ...

May 25, 2023 Posted by eLanka admin In Articles, Arundathie Abeysinghe Tagged archaeological site, Buduruwayaya archaeological site, Polonnaruwa, tourists, Wasgamuwa National Park

historic temple located in Polonnaruwa – Sri Lanka ” Lankatilaka Temple “ – By Malsha – eLanka The Lankatilaka Buddhist Temple is a historic temple located in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. It was built during the reign of King Parakramabahu the Great in the 12th century and is considered to be one of the finest examples of ancient Sinhalese architecture. The temple is known for its unique architectural design, which features a large, three-storeyed image house built on a high platform, with a large seated Buddha statue inside. The image house is surrounded by a series of smaller shrines and chapels, which are adorned with beautiful frescoes and intricate carvings. The Lankatilaka Temple is also famous for its unique blend of Buddhist and Hindu architectural styles, which reflects the religious diversity of Sri Lanka during the medieval period. The temple is a popular tourist attraction and is visited by thousands of ...

May 9, 2023 Posted by eLanka admin In Articles, Malsha Madhuhansi Tagged architectural styles, Buddhist temples, King Parakramabahu, Lankathilaka Vihara, Polonnaruwa

Era Polonnaruwa. Part II – By Dr Tilak S. Fernando When ancient Ceylonese trade, industries and technology were discussed, the irrigation network was the first thing that came to mind—the old technology and self-determination. During the Polonnaruwa era, irrigation networks were prominent and considered a meritorious deed according to the Sinhala culture and tradition. When a massive lake was to be constructed, Sri Lankans always sought foreigners’ assistance (in the present circumstances), including modern equipment and their knowledge. But our forefathers constructed huge lakes with slopes up to one inch to a mile gradient with their expertise and technology in society. It meant that local industries should have existed. It is also recorded that technology to build bridges existed in the Polonnaruwa era. Our forefathers’ ability and determination make us really proud. Old Ceylonese considered the Lake building and construction of stupas (Dagabas) as a meritorious right according to the ...

May 9, 2023 Posted by eLanka admin In Articles, Tilak S Fernando Tagged Ceylon, Polonnaruwa, Sinhala culture, Watadageya

“Kok Doowa Island” – paradise for avifauna aficianados – By Arundathie Abeysinghe A small rocky island located in the enormous *Parakrama Samudraya Reservoir in Polonnaruwa constructed by *King Parakramabahu (1153-1186) is a paradise for birdwatchers. During the nesting season of birds (from February to May) that coincides with the start of the monsoon, this tiny island turns home to thousands of nests, a birdwatchers’ paradise, a mesmerizing site… “Kok Doowa” meaning the ‘island of storks’ due to large numbers of birds, especially, storks (Ciconiidae) nesting on the rock, the island is visited not only by birds, but by elephants, especially those crossing Parakrama Samudraya. During the dry season, when the water levels of the reservoir decreases, visitors can walk across the water towards the island. Yet, when water levels are high, services of a fisherman’s boat to reach the island is necessary. The island has two summits, approximately 200 meters ...

Apr 20, 2023 Posted by eLanka admin In Articles, Arundathie Abeysinghe Tagged Anuradhapura Kingdom, King Parakramabahu, Kok Doowa Island, Parakrama Samudraya, Polonnaruwa

AN ANNIVERSARY TO REMEMBER” – by Des Kelly Any Anniversary is akin to my title of introduction. As we humans grow older, with each passing day, we tend to sometimes forget various Anniversaries, often to the annoyance of Partners and friends. Mostly, these important Anniversaries are those of Birthdays & Weddings which have ‘come & gone’ sadly, as the years pass by. NOT SO, IS THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF A LITTLE ISLAND, FORMERLY CALLED CEYLON, NOW, SRI LANKA. Not only is this one unforgettable because of it’s past colourful history, but NOW, because of a really BRILLIANT piece of WRITING by 103 year old D.L.SIRIMANNE from KOHUWALA, a little Suburb of Sri Lanka. To think of ANYONE who is OVER a Century in age, who can even remember to get out of bed each morning, is most difficult, then along comes Mr.Sirimanne, who not only arises, he sits down to ...

Jan 22, 2023 Posted by eLanka admin In Articles, DESMOND KELLY Tagged Anuradhapura, Britain colonised, Ceylon, D.L Sirimanne, King Dutugemunu, North-Central Province, Polonnaruwa, Portuguese, Ruwanweli Maha Seya

Nissanka Latha Manadapaya – a unique structure of yesteryear – By Arundathie Abeysinghe Constructed during the reign of King Nissanka Malla (1187-1196) and named after him as Nissanka Latha Manadapaya *(Mandapaya meaning pavilion), this extraordinary unique structure is located near the western entrance of the *Dalada Maluwa quadrangle of Polonnaruwa District in North Central Province, Sri Lanka. *Polonnaruwa region comprises the oldest and most sacred Buddhist and historical monuments. Hence, the monument is considered as significant as it showcases how Buddhism influenced society during the *Polonnaruwa Kingdom. Some archaeologists are of the view that the Complex is also known as the ‘King’s Court.’ The structure is an elevated stone platform with several stone columns carved exquisitely and this type of columns are not found anywhere else in the country. These stone columns are not straight unlike most stone columns in many historic sites in Sri Lanka. These columns are curved ...

Jan 18, 2023 Posted by eLanka admin In Articles, Arundathie Abeysinghe Tagged archaeologists, Buddhist and historical monuments, King Nissanka Malla, King Parakramabahu I, Polonnaruwa, Professor Senarath Paranavithana, Sri Lanka