Dalada Maluva - (Polonnaruwa) — Attraction in North Central Province

Vatadageya is one of the architecture pattern in ancient Stupa design. . The simple meaning of Vatadageya is a Stupa House. There are two famous Vatadageya in Polonnaruwa. The first one is the Medirigiriya Vatadageya and the other one is this vatadageya located in Polonnaruwa Dalada Malauwa.Usually we see very gigantic stupas in Polonnaruwa and Anuradapura ancient cities. But n Vatadageya design, the stupa is not that big. Specialty is the roof or shelter, which was made over the stupa to protect it from sun and rain.This Polonnaruwa dalada maluwa watadageya is is the best preserve Vatadageya in Sri Lanka. Its believe that this was built during the time of the king Parakramabahu the great. There were some renovation or additions were done later in king Nissanka Malla time (1187-1196) .This was built on a circular structure, above the ground level. At the entrance of this vatadaheya, you can see a well preserved Sandakada Pahana (moonstones ), which belongs to Polonnaruwa era. Both sides of the entrance have two Muragal (guard stones) and followed by a small staircase with few steps.There is a only one entrance from the ground level to middle level outer circle. Once you enter from this northern entrance, there are four doorways (located facing north, east south and west) to enter the top level, which is raised from the middle level.The middle of the center stage occupied a Stupa and there are four seating Buddha statues located in four directions. Even though the wooden roof is no longer exists, you can see some reaming stone pillars. Those pillars are arranged in concentric rows to...

A Sacred and Historical Treasure of Polonnaruwa

Dalada Maluwa is an incredible site filled with spiritual and historical significance. As the location where the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha was once enshrined, this area holds a special place in Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage.

The complex is home to some of Polonnaruwa’s most iconic structures, including the Hatadage, Atadage, and Vatadage. Each monument boasts intricate carvings, unique architectural styles, and remarkable craftsmanship that reflect the rich cultural legacy of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom.

The circular Vatadage, with its beautifully carved stone steps and serene Buddha statues, is a particular highlight. The entire area is surrounded by a peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect place for reflection and learning about the history of Sri Lanka.

Dalada Maluwa is a must-visit for anyone exploring Polonnaruwa. It offers an unforgettable experience of stepping back in time while appreciating the spiritual and architectural achievements of ancient Sri Lanka. Highly recommend taking a guide to truly appreciate the stories and significance behind...

The Dalada Maluwa:

The Dalada Maluwa (the hall where the Tooth Relic was safely deposited), was a sacred zone containing 12 magnificent buildings. Although there are numerous vatadage’s across Sri Lanka, the Vatadage at Polonnaruwa is the most famous. As with many other vatadage, it had a stupa in the center with four Buddha images facing the cardinal directions. Dalada Maluwa was built by King Parakrambahu the great (1164-1196AD), it was later enhanced and decorated by King Nissankamalla (1198-1206).

The Vatadage, one of the oldest & most beautiful monuments in Polonnaruwa, is to our left as we enter the Dalada Maluwa is to the left from the beautiful monument Vatadage. In spite of its uncertain size, the circular building with concentric terraces is a excellently planned and implemented 12th century work of art and architecture. It was certainly intended house for the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha. Presently this Sacred Tooth Relic is deposited in Kandy Tooth...