Polonnaruwa city
- Polonnaruwa is a major historical city in Sri Lanka's North Central Province and serves as the administrative capital of the Polonnaruwa District.
- The city lies about 140 km northeast of Kandy and is surrounded by scenic lakes, paddy fields, and wildlife habitats.
- Polonnaruwa was once the royal capital of Sri Lanka during the 11th–13th centuries and still preserves impressive ruins from that era.
- Modern Polonnaruwa is divided into two parts — the New Town, where most residents live and work, and the Old City, which houses the ancient ruins.
- The Parakrama Samudra, a vast man-made lake built by King Parakramabahu I, dominates the landscape and remains vital for agriculture and fishing.
- The city is known for its clean, green, and peaceful environment, making it one of the most pleasant towns to visit in Sri Lanka.
- Cycling is a popular way to explore Polonnaruwa, as most attractions and scenic spots are close to each other.
- The area around the city is rich in wildlife, including monkeys, birds, elephants, and bats — all easily spotted near lakes and forests.
- Polonnaruwa today blends ancient heritage with modern life, offering visitors both historical exploration and authentic rural experiences.
