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Polonnaruwa Vatadage
This ancient circular stone structure with an octagonal base houses sacred relics and ranks as Polonnaruwa’s second most popular attraction (out of 42), drawing visitors with its architectural beauty and 4.6-star rating for historical significance.
4.6
384 reviews
Details of Polonnaruwa Vatadage
Open now
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Paid parking lot
Free parking lot
Overview - Polonnaruwa Vatadage
Nestled within Sri Lanka’s Sacred City of Polonnaruwa, the Vatadage is a captivating example of ancient Buddhist architecture and a cornerstone of the region’s cultural heritage. Built during the 12th century, this circular stone structure—elevated on an octagonal base—served as a sacred relic chamber, reflecting the spiritual devotion of the Polonnaruwa kingdom. Its elegant design, marked by intricate stone carvings and harmonious proportions, showcases the engineering ingenuity of medieval Sri Lankan artisans. As one of Polonnaruwa’s most revered landmarks, the Vatadage draws visitors who seek to connect with history through its serene ambiance and well-preserved ruins. Visitors can explore the structure’s central chamber and marvel at the craftsmanship that has endured for centuries. With a 4.6-star rating from over 380 travelers, it ranks as a top attraction in Polonnaruwa, celebrated for its historical significance and architectural beauty. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photography enthusiast, or simply in search of tranquility, the Vatadage offers a profound journey into Sri Lanka’s ancient past, inviting reflection on the enduring legacy of this sacred site.
Tags/ Categories
Highlights
Ancient Circular Relic House
Intricate Stone Carvings & Moonstones
Four Buddha Statues Facing Directions
Part of Sacred Quadrangle Ruins
Nearby Attractions
Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum
4.7
15,000 reviews
Showcases ancient artifacts from Polonnaruwa's royal era, including sculptures, inscriptions, and pottery, offering insights into the city's historical significance.
Gal Vihara
4.8
20,000 reviews
Features three rock-cut Buddha statues carved into a single granite cliff, representing a pinnacle of ancient Sri Lankan stone carving artistry.
Lankatilaka Temple
4.6
12,000 reviews
Home to a massive seated Buddha statue, this temple exemplifies Polonnaruwa's architectural grandeur and historical importance as a major religious center.
Navigations
Navigations
Sacred City, Polonnaruwa Sri Lanka
Reviews
Nyesha Sen
This is one of the structures that are still kept erect in Pollonuwara. Beautiful artistic work or masonry.
2 months ago
Chiran Keerthisinghe
The Polonnaruwa Vatadage is an ancient structure dating back to the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa of Sri Lanka. The meaning of Vatadage is 'The Circular Relic House'. It is believed to have been built during the reign of Great King Parakramabahu.
3 months ago
Chamil Suresh
Polonnaruwa Vatadage is a well-preserved Vatadage in the famous Dalada Maluwa quadrangle of the ancient city of ruins, Polonnaruwa. Vatadages are typical Buddhist structures found in Sri Lanka. These are circular, constructed using stone.
5 months ago
Nirman Dissanayake
Visiting the Vatadageya in Polonnaruwa was an unforgettable experience for my wife and me. The circular structure is simply breathtaking, with its intricately carved stone pillars and statues that reflect the incredible craftsmanship.
9 months ago
Nikolina Lukić
Nice sights Many around close by with souvenur Sellers and other vendors there, worth a visit
4 weeks ago
Oz infocus
This historical attraction is worth a visit. Amazing early architecture. Cost was $30US to enter, with the ticket office at the museum. It's a large site so bike hire or tuk tuk is recommended. We got bikes outside for 1000 but they started.
8 months ago
Sasha Hardman
One of the most amazing historica sites. An expensive entrance fee ($20) but definitely worth it if you are interested in history and religious monuments. The cost includes the entire ancient city complex and you can buy your ticket at the museum.
a year ago
SP UK
One could get amazed at the symmetry and the precision of every detail made on rock to create such a magnificent structure as the 'Wata da ge'. As the name implies, it is circular in shape and remnants of stone beams are around it.
10 months ago
Niroshan Kumar
The Polonnaruwa Vatadage is a remarkable architectural masterpiece and a significant religious site in Sri Lanka. It's considered the best-preserved example of a vatadage (relic house) in the country and offers a glimpse into the rich history.
a year ago
Adrian Corera
The Vatadage, as the name implies ('vata' means 'circular,') is a circular structure built for the protection of a stupa that contains a holy relic. The Polonaruwa Vatadage which is situated at near the entrance to the ancient city was built during the reign of King Nissanka Malla.
a year ago
Isuru Abeygunawardana
Polonnaruwa Watadage was built in the 12th century in Polonnaruwa by the Polonnaruwa Kingdom, it holds a precious Buddha relic. People love its beautiful stone carvings, a great example of old Sri Lankan art. It's an evidence to the skilled craftsmanship.
a year ago