Polonnaruwa Kiri Vehera – කිරි වෙහෙර

Polonnaruwa Kiri Vehera

Smaller stupas around the premises

Smaller stupas around the premises

Polonnaruwa Kiri Vehera

Polonnaruwa Kiri Vehera

This large stupa known as the Kiri Vehera of Polonnaruwa, lying north of Lankathilaka Pilima Ge is said to be built by a queen of king Parakramabahu (1153-1186) called “Subadra”. The original name of this has been “Rupavathi Stupa” and this too is a part of Ãlahana Privena and stands 80 feet in height today.

This stupa is also the second biggest stupa in Polonnaruwa today. Also it is the only stupa to survive the 900 years of forces of nature and still is in the original condition.

There are many restored smaller stupas around Kiri Vehera. These have been identified as burial chambers of high priests and royals. Many of these including Kiri Vehera stupa has been attacked by treasure hunters and their valuables looted.

The two identical stupas south to the Lankathilaka is thought to be built upon remains of a king and a queen.

Photos before restoration from www.imagesofceylon.com

before restoration – photo taken on late 1800′s or early 1900′s

before restoration – photo taken on late 1800′s or early 1900′s

Also See

• The Ancient Capital of Polonnaruwa
• Anuradhapura – The city of the God King
• Ancient Heritage Sites of Sri Lanka
• Other Places of Interest Within Close Proximity

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Map of Kiri Vehera at Ancient Capital of  Polonnaruwa

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Driving Directions to Polonnaruwa Sacred City