The second oldest of Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals, Polonnaruwa was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its well-preserved archaeological ruins, which include palaces, pools, temples, schools, courts and other 12th-century civic features. It can easily be combined with one of the excellent nearby national parks, such as Kaudulla or Minneriya.

Sri Lanka’s royal medieval capital in 1073, for nearly a century Polonnaruwa had been a military base for invading Southern Indian Chola tribes, until the Sinhalese king, Vijayabahu I in 1070, overthrew them. The next king, Parakramabahu I, was the main driving force behind the development of Polonnuruwa. It remained Sri Lanka’s capital until the late 13th century, but became increasingly susceptible to Chola invasions and it became lost to the jungle once more as the capital drifted south-west. Today, the ancient city’s ruins remain in remarkably good nick, and are a fascinating site to visit. The most impressive are the ancient sculptures of Lord Buddha at the Gal Viahara cut into granite stone dating back to the middle of the 12th century.