Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s second kingdom, was established after the fall of Anuradhapura in the 10th century. Originally the capital of the invading Chola Kings of India, and later reclaimed by the Lankan King Vijayabahu I, the site is dotted with monuments and religious structures of Chola Hindu and Sri Lankan Buddhist origin.

Of note, the Lankalatika, a massive brick structure containing a giant image of the Buddha and the Tivanka Pilima Ge with its 13th century wall paintings describing the jatakas, or the many incarnations of the Buddha.

Not to be missed is the Polonnaruwa Gal Vihara, a 12th Century rock temple complex with giant images of the Buddha carved out of solid granite. Serene and solemn, the statues are best viewed from atop a high rock opposite.