Parakrama Samudraya

Parakrama Samudraya: ancient reservoir at Polonnaruwa

The Parakrama Samudraya is a large, shallow reservoir in Polonnaruwa. King Parakramabahu the Great built it, and it is made up of three tanks joined together. It covers over 2,500 hectares and is sometimes called the 'Sea of Polonnaruwa'.

The king is said to have declared that no rainwater should flow into the sea without serving the people. After about 800 years the reservoir still waters the paddy fields of the North Central Province.

What to see

The bund: A road runs along the top of the earthen dam, which is over 12 kilometres long. It is a popular public walking and driving area, with views of the sunset.

Wildlife: Many water birds live along the banks. Wild elephants are sometimes seen drinking and grazing on the far banks, especially in the late afternoon.

Boats: Informal boat tours can sometimes be arranged with local fishermen. There are no formal tour operators.

Getting there by car

The reservoir is 210 km (130 miles) from the airport, a drive of about 4.5 hours. It borders the western edge of Polonnaruwa town. The drive along the bund is the main reason to come, and you can [rent a car in Sri Lanka](/rent-a-car-sri-lanka) with a driver who knows good places to watch the sunset.

Before you go

Hours: Open 24/7 (Best for sunset).

Entry: Free.

Best time: Between 5:00 PM and 6:30 PM for the sunset over the water.

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Traveler FAQ for Parakrama Samudraya

Is it safe to walk on the bund?

Yes, it is a popular public walking and driving area.

Are there boat rides?

Informal boat tours can sometimes be arranged with local fishermen. There are no formal tour operators.

When is the best time to visit?

Between 5:00 PM and 6:30 PM, for the sunset over the water.

Why is it called the Sea of Parakrama?

It is a large man-made reservoir covering over 2,500 hectares, built by King Parakramabahu I to support the city's agriculture.

How long is the dam?

The main dam wall, or bund, is over 12 kilometres long. A road runs along it.

Can I see wild elephants here?

Sometimes. Wild elephants are occasionally seen drinking and grazing along the far banks, especially in the late afternoon.

Plan your trip to Parakrama Samudraya

Reach Parakrama Samudraya in your own car or with an English-speaking driver from H.B.S. Rent a Car Sri Lanka.

Parakrama Samudraya