Lankatilaka, Majestic Ruins with Headless Buddha
Lankatilaka Temple, Hingurakgoda Polonnaruwa Road, Polonnaruwa, Polonnaruwa District, North Central, Sri Lanka
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Introduction
Lankatilaka Vihara temple was originally built by King Bhuvanekabahu IV, and later renovated by King Vijayabahu V. The temple has a surrounding wall that is 17 meters high and extends 52 meters in length and 18 meters in width. Despite the collapsed roof, it is still awe-inspiring. Upon entering the temple, one is greeted by a large headless standing Buddha. Behind the Buddha image is a path for meditation, dimly lit and serene, where monks were said to have meditated three times a day. The exterior walls of the temple are adorned with reliefs in the architectural style of early Polonnaruwa. Standing beside the entrance steps, the temple towers impressively into the sky, leaving one in awe. Address Lankatilaka Temple, Hingurakgoda Polonnaruwa Road, Polonnaruwa, Polonnaruwa District, North Central, Sri Lanka
