Royal Palace of Parakramabahu

Explore the magnificent 12th-century Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu I, famous for its massive brick walls, historic architecture, and royal heritage in Polonnaruwa.

Best time to visit

Early morning (7:00 AM–10:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00 PM–5:00 PM) for cooler weather, comfortable sightseeing, and photography.

Opening hours

7:00 AM–5:00 PM

Entry fee

Foreign adults USD 30; foreign children (6–12) USD 15; eligible SAARC nationals 50% concession. Local rates to be verified. Included in the Polonnaruwa Ancient City ticket; no separate palace fee.

Dress code

Comfortable, modest clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Wear lightweight clothes and sun protection. Cover shoulders and knees when visiting nearby sacred Buddhist monuments.

Time needed

30–60 minutes

Highlights

• Magnificent 12th-century royal palace ruins
• Historical residence of King Parakramabahu I
• Originally described as a seven-storey palace
• Impressive massive brick walls and foundations
• Ancient stairways and architectural remains
• Remarkable medieval Sri Lankan engineering
• Historic royal administrative and residential complex
• Nearby King's Council Chamber
• Nearby Kumara Pokuna (Royal Bath)
• Part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ancient City

The Royal Palace of Parakramabahu, also known as Vaijayantha Prasada, is an impressive 12th-century historical monument located in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. Constructed during the reign of King Parakramabahu I (1153–1186 CE), it served as a royal residence and an important centre of administration. According to historical chronicles, the palace originally contained seven storeys and numerous rooms. Today, massive brick walls, ancient stairways, and structural remains reveal the remarkable engineering and architectural skills of medieval Sri Lankan builders. The thick walls once supported upper floors and elaborate wooden structures. The palace complex also includes nearby historical attractions such as the King's Council Chamber and Kumara Pokuna (Royal Bath). These monuments provide valuable insights into the lifestyle, political organization, and cultural achievements of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom. Today, the palace is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ancient City of Polonnaruwa and remains a popular destination for visitors exploring Sri Lanka's royal heritage.

Photos

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

How to get there

The Royal Palace of Parakramabahu is located within the Royal Citadel of Polonnaruwa Ancient City in Sri Lanka's North Central Province. Visitors can reach Polonnaruwa by car, bus, or train from Colombo, Kandy, and Anuradhapura. From Polonnaruwa town, take a tuk-tuk, taxi, bicycle, or private vehicle to the archaeological site. Follow the designated routes to the Royal Palace Complex and carry your Polonnaruwa Ancient City entrance ticket.

Tips for visitors

Visit early in the morning to avoid the midday heat. Wear comfortable walking shoes and lightweight clothing. Carry drinking water, sunscreen, and a sunhat. Do not climb, touch, or damage fragile palace walls. Walk carefully on uneven stone paths and ancient steps. Follow archaeological conservation and photography rules. Keep your Polonnaruwa Ancient City admission ticket. Explore the nearby King's Council Chamber and Kumara Pokuna. Consider hiring a local guide to learn about the palace's history. Allow sufficient time to appreciate the ancient royal architecture.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Royal Palace of Parakramabahu located?

The Royal Palace of Parakramabahu is located within the ancient Royal Citadel of Polonnaruwa in Sri Lanka's North Central Province. It forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ancient City of Polonnaruwa.

What can visitors see at the Royal Palace of Parakramabahu?

Visitors can explore massive ancient brick walls, palace foundations, old stairways, and architectural remains from the 12th century. Nearby attractions include the King's Council Chamber and Kumara Pokuna (Royal Bath).

When is the best time to visit the Royal Palace of Parakramabahu?

Early morning between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM or late afternoon between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM is recommended for cooler weather and comfortable sightseeing. The palace can be visited throughout the year.

What are the opening hours and entry fees for the Royal Palace of Parakramabahu?

CCF lists the Polonnaruwa archaeological site hours as 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily. Published 2026 admission rates are USD 30 for foreign adults and USD 15 for foreign children aged 6–12. Eligible SAARC visitors receive a 50% concession. Local rates should be verified. The Royal Palace is included in the Ancient City ticket.

How do I get to the Royal Palace of Parakramabahu, and what should I know before visiting?

Travel to Polonnaruwa by car, bus, or train, then use a tuk-tuk, bicycle, or private vehicle to reach the Royal Citadel inside the Ancient City. Wear comfortable shoes, carry drinking water, avoid climbing fragile walls, and follow archaeological conservation rules.