Worth a Journey

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The World’s 100 Best Archaeological Sites & Ruins

Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka

  1. THE WORLD’S BEST RUINS & SITES WORTH A JOURNEY · 2026 ✦ ✦ N° 85 2026
Polonnaruwa

A 12th-century rock temple in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, North Central Province, Sri Lanka. Visitors walk among four Buddha statues carved from a single granite rock face.

Highlights

  • Reclining Buddha statue
  • Standing Buddha statue
  • Seated Buddha statues

Good to know

  • Foreigners buy tickets at the museum
  • Entry fee about $30 per person
  • Remove shoes; covered knees and shoulders required

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