In the heart of Polonnaruwa, the Parakrama Samudra — or “Sea of Parakrama” — stands as one of Sri Lanka’s greatest feats of ancient engineering. Built in the 12th century CE by King Parakramabahu I, this vast man-made reservoir covers more than 22 square kilometers and was designed to irrigate the fertile lands surrounding the capital. The king’s famous words, “Let not even a drop of rainwater go to the sea without being used,” reflect his visionary approach to water management and sustainable prosperity.
Nearby lies the Pothgul Viharaya, an ancient library-monastery complex believed to have served as a center for Buddhist learning. At its entrance stands a remarkable rock-carved statue — thought to depict King Parakramabahu I himself — holding a scroll or book, symbolizing wisdom and leadership.
Together, the Parakrama Samudra and Pothgul Viharaya embody the spirit of Sri Lanka’s golden age — where engineering, scholarship, and faith flourished under a ruler whose legacy continues to inspire the nation.
