Home > Heritage > Panduwasnuwara > Articles

Panduwasnuwara

Situated 27km northwest of Kurunegala, off the Chilaw road, Panduwasnuwara is the oldest royal capital in the district. It was made regal in the fifth century BC under Sri Lanka’s second king, Pandukabhaya, successor to Vijaya, the founder of the nation. Though most of the extensive 20ha archaeological remains date from the 12th century AD, a forested mound has been identified as Vijaya’s tomb, pointing to the authenticity of Panduwasnuwara’s history.

Surrounding the once-regal palace complex, which was also briefly used by Parakramabahu I (1153-1186) before he moved to Polonnaruwa, are the remains of an ancient fortified wall and moat. Within are the ruins of a palace, a monastic complex, bathing pools and an audience hall. There is also a restored temple of the tooth within the grounds and a small museum near the entrance that exhibits objects found on site, such as coins, pottery and jewellery.

by Emma Boyle
www.travelsrilanka.com

Home > Heritage > Panduwasnuwara > Articles