Nissanka Malla’s Palace

Polonnaruwa


The ruins of Nissanka Malla’s palace have almost been reclaimed by the earth.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Polonnaruwa attractions

1. King’s Council Chamber

0.02 MILES

This pillared hall is where the King Nissanka Malla’s council would have met. Inscribed into each of the 48 columns in the chamber is the name of the…

2. Royal Baths

0.05 MILES

This water tank next to the EKHO Lake House has a stepped entrance and is fed from the nearby Topa Wewa.

3. Archaeological Museum

0.15 MILES

This excellent museum has rooms dedicated to the citadel, the outer city, the monastery area (check out the model of the monks' hospital and medical…

4. Royal Palace

0.2 MILES

The Royal Palace constructed by Parakramabahu I was a magnificent structure measuring 31m by 13m, and is said to have had seven storeys. Today its…

5. Entrance to Ruins

0.24 MILES

This is where you will have your Polonnaruwa ticket checked, before entering the main site.

6. Audience Hall

0.26 MILES

Parakramabahu I’s Audience Hall is notable for the frieze of elephants, each of which is in a different pose. There are fine lions at the top of the steps.

7. Polonnaruwa Ruins

0.27 MILES

For three centuries Polonnaruwa was a royal capital of both the Chola and Sinhalese kingdoms. Today's archaeological park is a delight to explore, with…

8. Shiva Devale No 1

0.29 MILES

Just south of the Quadrangle, the 13th-century Hindu temple Shiva Devale No 1 displays the Indian influence that returned after Polonnaruwa’s Sinhalese…