Vatadage, an ancient stupa located in the historic city of Polonnaruwa, is a must-see for anyone interested in Sri Lanka’s rich history and stunning architecture. Built in the 12th century, this impressive structure is well-preserved and showcases intricate design.
Constructed during the reign of King Parakramabahu I or Nissanka Malla, Vatadage was built to protect a small stupa that once held important relics, possibly including the Buddha’s tooth or alms bowl. This makes Vatadage not only a historical treasure but also a site of great religious significance.
Vatadage is famous for its unique two-tiered design. The lower platform, with a diameter of 37 meters, has a single entrance on the northern side and is decorated with finely carved stone details. The upper platform, which measures 24 meters in diameter, is surrounded by a strong brick wall and can be reached through four doorways facing each cardinal direction. This level contains the main stupa and is encircled by four Buddha statues, each facing one of the entrances, creating a peaceful and balanced atmosphere.
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The beauty of Vatadage is highlighted by its detailed stone carvings, including moonstones (sandakadapahana) and guard stones (muragala). The moonstones at the northern entrance show the cycle of rebirth in Buddhism, adding spiritual meaning to the site. The guard stones, particularly at the eastern entrance, are intricately designed, adding to the site’s visual appeal.
The craftsmanship of Vatadage reflects the height of ancient Sri Lankan building techniques. Stone columns, which might have supported a wooden roof, are elegantly carved with lotus patterns. The brick wall around the upper platform, though partly worn, was originally built to protect the stupa from the weather and was once decorated with colorful paintings. The lower part of the wall features floral designs, showcasing the fine artistry of the time.
Polonnaruwa was abandoned in 1215 after an invasion by Kalinga Magha from the Eastern Ganga Dynasty, leading to Vatadage’s neglect. It wasn’t until 1903 that the Department of Archaeology started excavating the site, which had previously been described as “just a mound of earth.”
Visiting Vatadage gives you a chance to connect with Sri Lanka’s ancient past. Its peaceful setting, detailed carvings, and historical importance make it a captivating place for tourists.
Route from Colombo
Take bus route 48 from the Bastian Mawatha Bus Stand in Pettah, Colombo, to Kaduruwela. Get off at Polonnaruwa, the nearest town to your destination. From there, you can take a tuk-tuk to reach your destination. Polonnaruwa is approximately 224 kilometers from Colombo, and the bus journey takes around 5 hours.
