Overview
Panduwasnuwara is a remarkably complete 12th-century archaeological park containing the ruins of a beautifully structured royal capital fortress. Built under King Parakramabahu I, it includes a massive royal palace complete with thick masonry walls, bathing ponds, and structural shrines. The site is celebrated for its circular citadel mound, legendarily known as 'Ektemge' - the single-pillared secure tower where Princess Unmada Chitra was confined.
History
Established as the capital of Dakkhina Desa (the Southern Kingly Sector), King Parakramabahu I developed Panduwasnuwara as a model capital. Folklore also names it the seat of Sri Lanka's legendary first ruler, King Panduwasdev, from the 5th century BC.
On the grounds
Princess Chitra's circular Ektemge
Royal court bathing ponds
The palace fortified moats
Before you climb
- ◆ The site spans 20 hectares - wear comfortable walking shoes
- ◆ Photography of the ruins is welcome, but don't climb the ancient brick foundations
- ◆ Visit the small on-site museum for its coin collection
A suggested visit
09:00 - Walk through the primary palace gateway and moats
10:15 - Sit by Princess Chitra's legendary circular mound
11:30 - Discover the ancient lotus bathing pond ruins
13:00 - Picnic in the shaded surrounding gardens
