Polonnaruwa lake

Polonnaruwa Lake, also known as Parakrama Samudra, is a massive ancient reservoir built during the reign of King Parakramabahu the (first) in the 12th century.
It is considered one of the most significant hydraulic engineering feats in Sri Lanka, capable of holding around 135 million cubic meters of water.
The lake played a crucial role in supporting agriculture and supplying water to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.
Covering approximately 2,700 hectares, it is one of the largest irrigation tanks.
The lake is surrounded by ancient ruins, temples, and statues.
It serves as a habitat for various aquatic and bird species, contributing to the region's biodiversity.
Polonnaruwa Lake is a popular tourist attraction, offering scenic views, kayak and tube rides.
The lake and its surrounding temples are sites for religious festivals and rituals.
Polonnaruwa, including the lake and ancient ruins, is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site