Tucked away on the quieter side of Polonnaruwa lies a true hidden gem — the Thivanka Image House,
one of the most remarkable brick shrines from Sri Lanka’s ancient kingdom.
Built by King Parakramabahu the Great in the 12th century, this image house is famous for its towering
Buddha statue and vivid ancient murals that have survived for nearly a millennium.
The Story Behind Thivanka Image House:
The name “Thivanka” means “three bends”, referring to the graceful posture of the Buddha statue
inside — the body slightly curved at the shoulder, waist, and knee. The shrine was part of the Jethavana
Monastery Complex, used for Buddhist worship and teaching.
Though partially in ruins today, the tall brick walls, ornate doorways, and faded wall paintings still reveal
the grandeur of ancient Polonnaruwa’s spiritual life.
- See the Giant Buddha Statue 🗿🙏: A 9-meter-tall image 📏 carved in the elegant Thivanka pose ✨🧘
- Admire the Murals 🎨🖼️: Ancient wall paintings 🖌️ depicting Jataka tales 📜 and scenes from Buddhist teachings ☸️💡
- Explore the Architecture 🧱🏛️: Massive brick walls 🏰 and arched corridors 🚶♀️ that show the skill of 🛠️ 12th-century builders 🕰️🔍
- Photography 📸: Capture soft golden light ☀️ filtering through the old shrine’s windows 😌🧡
- 🚗 From Polonnaruwa Town: 15 minutes by car or bicycle towards the northern end of the ancient city.
- 🛣️ From Colombo: Around 5.5 hours by car via Dambulla–Habarana route.
- 🚆 By Train: Get off at Kaduruwela Station and hire a tuk-tuk to reach the site.
- Bring a flashlight 🔦 to view faded murals 🎨 inside 🖼️🔍
- Shoes must be removed 👟 before entering the shrine 🕌🚫👣
- Carry water 💧 — the site is in a quiet, open area 🏞️✅
- Respect the sacred atmosphere 🙏; silence is appreciated 🤫😌
- 6:30 AM – Start your visit 🚗💨 at Gal Vihara 🙏🗿📍
- 7:30 AM – Head north 🗺️ to Thivanka Image House 🕌✨
- 8:30 AM – Explore the nearby Jethavana ruins 🧱🏚️🔍
- 9:30 AM – Coffee ☕ or snacks 🍎 near Polonnaruwa town 😋🥐
