Uththararamaya (Gal Vihara) image

Uththararamaya (Gal Vihara)

Tourist attraction Historical landmark Buddhist temple Place of worship

One of the Best Places To Visits in Palugasdamana


Address

X283+CXG, Nissankamallapura, Sri Lanka

Contact

+94 272 222 235

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (2.1K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: statues (25) rock (24) ancient (24) Buddha (23) Polonnaruwa (21) temple (17) figure (16) carved (14) Vihara (13) large (12)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 4/5 Rìo 1 month ago on Google • 982 reviews New
    Buddha statues
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nandun K. 3 months ago on Google • 480 reviews New
    rock temple of the Buddha situated in the ancient city Polonnaruwa, the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Polonnaruwa, fashioned in the 12th century by King Parakramabahu I. The central feature of the temple is four rock relief statues of the Buddha, which have been carved into the face of a large granite gneiss rock.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tharaka H. 2 years ago on Google
    The Gal Vihara (Rock temple/Rock monastery) a.k.a Uttararama is a 12th CE rock temple built by King Parakramabahu I. The temple is situated in Polonnaruwa and is a chief tourist draw in the region. The temple has three large statues of the Buddha carved into a single granite rock face. The site also has a smaller statute also carved next to the larger statue in an artificial cave termed Vidhyadhara Guhawa. Foreign tourists would need to secure tickets to see the site at the Polonnaruwa Museum (next to the Bund Rd). The tickets include access to other sites in Polonnaruwa. The area is frequented by toque macaques and Hanuman langurs.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Didulanka I. 2 years ago on Google
    Gal Wiharaya, the ancient monument built by the great king Maha Parakramabahu between 1153 to 1186. The place has included into list of world heritage sites due to the undeniable, undoubted stone sculpture technology of our good-old ancient ancestors. Visit and enjoy the scenic view. #mysrilanka #visitsrilanka #stonesculpture
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Marius D. 1 year ago on Google
    For those who appreciate history, this is one of the most impressive sights they have ever explored. Even if they are not as well preserved, the ruins of the former city rival the sights of wonderful Rome or Athens. When visting the site don't hesitate to ask for an official guide (ask at the museum).
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ranil S. 5 months ago on Google • 456 reviews
    you find the parking bit difficult here since this is basically the last parking lot for the whole tour. However, can park along the road if parking place is occupied. you need to walk a bit to reach the temple. There are four carved postures of lord buddha and the amount of details in the carvings is amazing.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Sudheera S. 4 months ago on Google • 394 reviews
    A great place to visit and observe for all lovers of ancient sculpture and buddhist artistic creations. You need to spend several hours, ideally early morning or in the evening, here to observe the detail. The more you observe, more you will realize the artistic talent of the creators and beauty of creations. There are several guides around, English speaking, who are capable of explaining the historical background and details of creations. The authorities can do more to improve the visitor facilities and to provide guidance/information specially to the foreign tourists. Strongly advised against visiting during the day time (unless in the rainy season) due to hot weather. No tickets required for locals.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Hewey H. 10 months ago on Google • 230 reviews
    A must to see in Polonnaruwa. The history of this place is amazing with relics dating back to the 7c. We went in May 23 and even then the place is hot, be prepared for hot feet when entering some of the sacred areas but you must experience it all from then smallest of ruin to the grandeur of the carved in rock monuments. A truly unique and beautiful place
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Wiktoria S. 1 month ago on Google • 11 reviews New
    Two dogs there are in a terrible agonal condition. One of the dog lays in from of the people sitting there all day with a donation box, and if you want to make a donation and ask if it also goes for the dogs they have the audacity to say yes. If you are planning to be there soon please let me know/send pictures of the dogs in bad condition that you saw, and I will try to organise a vet.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Moh T. 1 year ago on Google
    i think its one of most well preserved buddaha statues i saw , its so beautiful and with details and its totaly curved in the rocks. the place is very sacred and you feel peaceful there.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Supun T. 7 months ago on Google • 4 reviews
    Polonnaruwa is an ancient kingdom. You can see lots of ruin when you visit there. Among them 'Polonnaruwa Gal Vihara' is very attractive and historically very valuable. The main feature of the temple is four rock relief statues of the Buddha have been carved into a large granite rock. It is a great work who has done in Polonnaruwa kindom. Few people be there. They will give you a better explanation. Vehicle parking and all kind of facilities have provided there. But bring some water. In these days the place is very hot. Go and see our great history.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Minindu L. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is a good example of the proud history of Sri Lanka. You can also see evidence of the very advanced technology that existed in ancient Sri Lanka 🇱🇰
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lakshan P. 2 years ago on Google
    Gal Wiharaya, the ancient monument built by the great king Maha Parakramabahu between 1153 to 1186. The place has included into list of world heritage sites due to the undeniable, undoubted stone sculpture technology of our good-old ancient ancestors. Visit and enjoy the scenic view. #mysrilanka #visitsrilanka #stonesculpture
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Horst M. 1 month ago on Google • 828 reviews New
    Very interesting.

  • 5/5 Ross D. 4 months ago on Google • 439 reviews
    All part of the extensive old Royal Palace the Gal Vihara sculptures in Polonnaruwa are significant as they are considered some of the finest examples of Buddhist sculpture in Sri Lanka. They showcase the skill and craftsmanship of the ancient Sri Lankan artists. It takes a long time to visit the Palace ruins but this area is wonderful.

  • 5/5 Saltets G. 1 month ago on Google • 270 reviews New
    Ancient statues of sitting, standing and reclining Buddha.

  • 5/5 Tharaka D. 5 months ago on Google • 135 reviews
    Polonnaruwa Gal vihara contains most beautiful rock statues of Lord Buddha which reveals the talent of the old workers and the technology. we visit at night and the lightings created a different ambient, may be its totally different in day time. A place that is a must for a visit if you are visiting Polonnaruwa. have to walk around 500 m from parking lot

  • 5/5 Dilan m. 6 months ago on Google • 135 reviews
    Gal Viharaya, originally known as Uttararamaya is a rock temple in the ancient kingdom of Polonnaruwa. The main feature of this place is the four images of Buddha that have been carved on a single large granite rock. The images consist of a large seated figure, another smaller seated figure inside an artificial cavern, a standing figure, and a reclining figure. This was made by King Parakramabahu. Wheelchairs available near the entrance of this place and wheelchair accessible road available for needy people. Crowded in weekends and public holidays.

  • 5/5 Arjuna C. 3 months ago on Google • 133 reviews New
    There are three statues that are of great interest, as it depicts the Lord Buddha in three unique positions. The seated statue shows the Buddha depicting the Dhyana mudra, while the reclining statue depicts the Parinirvana position, and is one of the most intricately sculpted statues, as the depression of the pillow, along with the lotus symbol on the side is still very visible even to this day. The standing image, on the other hand, is believed to be the Lord Buddha depicting an unusual gesture, which has led many archaeologists to believe that it is not the depiction of the Buddha, but his disciple Ananda. The Gal Vihara, sometimes known as the ‘Uttaramaya’ (Northern Temple), is also believed to have once been covered in frescoes of intriguing nature, however, has long been destroyed due to the Chola invasions that took place in the 14th century.

  • 5/5 Amila P. 4 weeks ago on Google • 100 reviews New
    Sacred place to visit in sri lanka. It also has wheelchair accessible entrance.

  • 5/5 pasan m. 2 months ago on Google • 68 reviews New
    This is Polonnaruwa's Uttararama or Galvihara, a magnificent creation. I actually looked at the trio of idols without batting an eye. In fact, I still can't believe how those emotions were harvested on that rock. The other opinion about the standing statue and the reclining statue is that "Ananda Thero was shocked to see Buddha's parinirvana". See for yourself. Emotions evoked by those eyes. There are no words to write this Google review.

  • 5/5 Nayana D. 1 month ago on Google • 28 reviews New
    A great place to visit a lot of knowledge for children and very nice ancient statues and relics, you have the 3 statues of Lord buddah and there are people for tell the stories of the place they are absolutely fascinating but there are some monkeys if you are very scared of them but they are not a trouble or anything like that. It's just a very good place for anyone to visit.

  • 5/5 Tharaka L. 1 month ago on Google • 16 reviews New
    Great place to see the ancient art of Sri Lanka

  • 5/5 John 2 years ago on Google
    The most impressive and well preserved site in Polonnaruwa's ancient city. You'll find three statues of buddha in 3 different poses. A lot of locals come here with offerings (which the monkeys instantly devour). You'll be asked to remove your shoes.

  • 5/5 Praveen De S. 2 years ago on Google
    It was fashioned in the 12th century by Parakramabahu I. The central feature of the temple is four rock relief statues of the Buddha, which have been carved into the face of a large granitic (granite gneiss) rock. The images consist of a large seated figure, another smaller seated figure inside an artificial cavern, a standing figure and a reclining figure. These are considered to be some of the best examples of ancient Sinhalese sculpting and carving arts, and have made the Gal Vihara the most visited monument at Polonnaruwa.

  • 4/5 Henron 2 years ago on Google
    I'm glad i made the decision to sieze the opportunity of visitng the religious site. The wonder of the intricate sculptures carved from a single rock is worth the visit. In addition, the nearby historical structures are gratifying to view.

  • 5/5 Maliya N. 8 months ago on Google
    Gal Viharaya, originally known as Uttararamaya is a rock temple in the ancient kingdom of Polonnaruwa. The main feature of this place is the four images of Buddha that have been carved on a single large granite rock. The images consist of a large seated figure, another smaller seated figure inside an artificial cavern, a standing figure, and a reclining figure. This was made by King Parakramabahu. Wheelchairs available near the entrance of this place and wheelchair accessible road available for needy people. Crowded in weekends and public holidays.

  • 4/5 Chandraneel J. 11 months ago on Google
    One of the best Archeo sites in Sri Lanka 🇱🇰. Very ancient and has really nice places. Will need about 2 days to cover all in time, but can be done in 1 day as well. The main complex is the best and probably the most beautiful ancient architecture in the country. The round bldg with 4 statues on 4 sides and the other temples are a treat to explore. Even the rock cut Buddha statues further ahead are a wonder.

  • 5/5 chandana madihage චන්දන �. 1 year ago on Google
    Gal Vihara - Polonnaruwa - Sri Lanka. The Gal Vihara ( translating to the Rock Temple )is one of the most famous and ancient Buddhist temples found in Sri Lanka. In particular, the temple is famous for the four Buddha statues it contains – all of which have been carved into a single granite rock face. According to ancient Sinhalese scriptures, the Gal Vihara was one of the hundred temples that were built by King Parakramabahu I, one of the island’s most famous and celebrated monarchs. The Gal Vihara had served as a centre of Buddhist education in the country – it would go onto fulfilling that duty until the temple was abandoned around the fall of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom.

  • 5/5 Priya S. 1 year ago on Google
    The Gal Vihara (Sinhala: ගල් විහාර), and originally as the Uttararama (Sinhala: උත්තරාම), is a rock temple of the Buddha situated in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa in North Central Province, Sri Lanka. It was fashioned in the 12th century by Parakramabahu I. The central feature of the temple is four rock relief statues of the Buddha, which have been carved into the face of a large granitic (granite gneiss) rock. The images consist of a large seated figure, another smaller seated figure inside an artificial cavern, a standing figure and a reclining figure. These are considered to be some of the best examples of ancient Sinhalese sculpting and carving arts, and have made the Gal Vihara the most visited monument at Polonnaruwa.

  • 4/5 KALINDU 11 months ago on Google
    "Gal Vihara" also spelt "Gal Viharaya", means “Rock Monastery”. It's the name of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated rock-cut Buddha statues. They once belonged to the Uttara Rama, meaning “Northern temple”, founded by Polonnaruwa’s great King Parakramabahu I (1153-86). The Gal Vihara group consists of four fascinating statues, three colossal rock-cut images, and a smaller one in a partly artificial cave. The Gal Vihara sculptures, each different in design, are undoubtedly  the most perfect specimen of Buddha statues hewn out of solid granite in Sri Lanka. All four images are hallowed out of the abrupt eastern slope of a single massive boulder, which is about 27 meters in length and 10 meters in height. They are still in a good state of preservation. In order to protect them from acid rain, the resplendent images are sheltered under a new roof, the aesthetic perfection of which might be debatable. Statues are located a few meters away from the large parking space available.

  • 5/5 Nipunika G. 9 months ago on Google
    Secret place in Polonnaruwa. Situated within the same premises where most of the ancient monuments are located. A few minutes drive from the main city. You have to buy LKR 50 tickets for entering the entire premises (only for the vehicle). Do not need individual tickets. Have to park the vehicle by the road and walk about 100 m to the specific place. There are four statues of lord buddha which were carved from a big stone. All statues are very smoothly carved including even minor details.

  • 5/5 senarathne a. 11 months ago on Google
    this is popular rock temple located in Polonnaruwa area. Sri Lankan call it gal wiharaya. if you go there you can see largest four kind of Buddha statues. Don't know who maintain it but maintains was good.

  • 5/5 Joanna L. 1 year ago on Google
    We had an amazing day visiting this vast site. Be warned, if you plan to walk this site, please try and do so on a not so hot day! You can really spend hours here. You can rent a bicycle to get around the place or if you have a driver, they can take you from point to point. I truly don’t think the $25 dollars is expensive at all for what you get to see. Tickets must be purchased at the museum not too far from the site. Please also remember to be respectful. No hats and shoes inside holy areas and no pictures with your back to Buddha. Unfortunately we saw too many tourists do this, but everything is clearly signed! Definitely worth the day trip if you have the time.

  • 5/5 Amith R. 11 months ago on Google
    One of the best Archeo sites in Sri Lanka . really nice places. Will need about 2 days to cover all in time, but can be done in 1 day as well. The main complex is the best and probably the most beautiful ancient architecture in the country. The round bldg with 4 statues on 4 sides and the other temples are a treat to explore. Even the rock cut Buddha statues further ahead are a wonder.


Call +94 272 222 235 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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