Located in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Gal Vihara (also known as Uttararama) is one of Sri Lanka’s greatest masterpieces of ancient Buddhist sculpture. Carved during the reign of King Parakramabahu I in the 12th century CE, this rock temple features four magnificent statues of the Buddha — a large seated figure, a smaller seated image in a niche, a standing figure, and a 14-meter-long reclining Buddha representing Parinirvana.
Each statue is hewn from a single granite rock face, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship, spiritual grace, and artistic perfection. The serene expressions and fine detailing reflect both devotion and mastery of stone carving during Polonnaruwa’s golden age.
Now part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Polonnaruwa, Gal Vihara stands as a symbol of peace, enlightenment, and the enduring artistry of Sri Lanka’s ancient civilization.
