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Polonnaruwa succeeded Anuradhapura as Sri Lanka’s royal capital in the 10th to 12th centuries under the rule of great monarchs like King Parakramabahu I. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage archaeological park offers an exceptionally well-preserved showcase of medieval urban planning, palatial engineering, fortified moats, and stone sculpting mastery set within shady tree groves.
Best Time to Visit: May to September (Dry season ideal for exploring the vast ruins by bicycle).