The ancient city of Panduwasnuwara
The ancient city of Panduwasnuwara
The city of Panduwasnuwara is an ancient capital of Sri Lanka and has a rich collection of historic ruins that spread out over 20 hectares.
Situated in the Kurunegala area of Sri Lanka, North West of Kandy, Panduwasnuwara was the capital of the island during the 12th century when King Parakramabahu ruled the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa. The ancient capital was the home of the sacred Buddha tooth relic during this time.
While it is true that Panduwasnuwara doesn’t match the historic ruins and cultural gems found at Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura City, it is still a worthwhile place to visit if you have time during your Sri Lankan tour.
The ruins of Panduwasnuwara
The ruins of Panduwasnuwara are spread out over an area of 20 hectares, with many areas of the city still yet to be excavated.
The main attraction of the city is the ancient round palace which was built during the 12th century, although only the original foundations of the building remain to this day. The palace itself is enclosed by a wide circular moat which helped protect the palace. The palace is undoubtable a place of rich history and there remains many legends and tales about those who once resided within its walls.
The other main feature of the city is the Temple of Tooth (not to be confused with that in Kandy) which was once home to the sacred tooth relic during the 12th centuary after it was brought back from India by King Parakramabahu. Today the foundation of the temple can still be seen but the roof is a restoration completed in the 1970s. The revered bo tree is located at the temple.
There are lots of other interesting ruins around Panduwasnuwara, including dagobas, image houses, monasteries, pillars and other historic buildings and constructions.
A quick trip to the Panduwasnuwara Museum provides a greater insight into Panduwasnuwara’s past with a collection of coins, jewellery, pottery and small statues displayed.
