Statue of Parakramabahu I
Discover the history, architecture, and visitor details of Statue of Parakramabahu I in Polonnaruwa, located only a short ride from your sanctuary at ISARA Residence.
Historical & Architectural Significance
Standing near the Potgul Vehera, this iconic 12th-century stone statue is popularly believed to depict King Parakramabahu I, the great builder of Polonnaruwa. The figure, carved into a rock boulder, holds an object that resembles a yoke (symbolizing sovereignty) or an ola-leaf manuscript (symbolizing scholarship). Standing 11.5 feet tall, the statue radiates majesty, strength, and dignity. Some scholars argue it represents a sage like Pulasti or Agastya, but its royal bearing and proximity to the king's works keep the popular legend alive.
Travel Times From ISARA Residence
Located 3.7 km from our doorstep in Polonnaruwa, easily accessible via bicycle, tuk-tuk, or car.
By Car / Tuk-Tuk
~9 mins
By Bicycle
~18 mins
Walking
~49 mins
Visitor Essentials & Heritage Etiquette
Tips for a respectful and comfortable visit to Polonnaruwa archaeological monuments
Shoulders and knees must be covered at all sacred Buddhist ruins. White or light-colored attire is respectful and keeps you cool under the tropical sun.
Shoes and hats must be removed before stepping onto elevated stone platforms and stupa terraces. Bring thick socks to protect feet against warm midday stone.
Early morning (07:30 - 10:00 AM) or late afternoon (03:30 - 05:45 PM) offer gentler temperatures, soft golden light for photos, and fewer tour groups.
Never turn your back directly to a Buddha statue when posing for photos. Flash photography is restricted in sheltered mural chambers like Tivanka Image House.
Continue Exploring
More Sites Near Statue of Parakramabahu I
Archaeological Museum
The Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum is an essential starting point for any visit, located near the Parakrama Samudra rest house. It houses a rich collection of artifacts recovered from the ancient city, including surgical instruments, bronze statues of Hindu deities (evidence of religious tolerance and Chola influence), ceramic items, and architectural models. The museum provides context to the ruins, displaying reconstructions of how the massive buildings like the Royal Palace and Thuparama might have looked in their prime.
Royal Palace
The Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu I, known as the "Palace of Seven Stories" (Vaijayanta Prasada), was once a colossal structure with a thousand chambers, according to the Chronicles. Today, massive brick walls of three stories remain, hinting at its original grandeur. The complex included spacious halls and likely had wooden upper floors that were destroyed by fire during the invasion of Kalinga Magha. The thick walls preserve traces of plaster and holes for floor beams, offering a glimpse into the immense scale of medieval royal living.
Kumara Pokuna
Located just outside the royal citadel, Kumara Pokuna ("Prince's Pond") was the royal bath constructed by King Parakramabahu I. The pond is designed in a geometric shape with stepped sides leading down to the water. Fresh water was channeled from the canal through dragon-mouthed spouts (makara sohi), showcasing the sophisticated hydraulic network that cooled the water before it entered the bath. Adjacent to the pond are the ruins of a changing room, reflecting the luxury and attention to detail in royal life.