Lankathilaka Image House at Polonnaruwa

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The Laṅkātilaka Image House in Polonnaruwa is a monumental brick structure dating to the reign of King Parākramabāhu I (1153–1186). Situated south of Kiri Vehera, it forms part of the Āḷahana Pirivena complex. The building is constructed entirely of brick, with its external walls decorated with intricate carvings and ornamental details.

Inside stands a massive Buddha statue, also made of clay bricks, which originally reached a height of about 12.5 meters (41 feet). Specially manufactured flat bricks were used in its construction, although the upper portion above the shoulders has since been destroyed.

Architectural Features

At the entrance, two enormous brick pillars dominate the façade, the tallest currently standing at approximately 17.7 meters (58 feet). It is believed that these pillars were once at least twice this height before sustaining damage. Historical sources suggest that the structure originally rose to five stories.

Within the image house are two uniquely designed stairways leading to the upper levels. Each step measures roughly 10 centimeters (4 inches) in width and 30.5 centimeters (1 foot) in height. Beginning near the Buddha statue, the stairways ascend toward the entrance. Their narrow and steep design makes conventional climbing impractical; instead, one must ascend sideways, keeping the back against the wall.

This architectural feature ensures that devotees do not turn their backs on the Buddha, an act considered disrespectful.

Architectural Style

The building exemplifies the Geḍi-ge architectural style, characterized by vaulted brick roofs formed in arched or semi-spherical shapes. Although the roof has long since collapsed, the remaining structure still reflects the sophistication of this design tradition.

Unique Sculptural Element

A distinctive feature of the Laṅkātilaka Image House is its rare depiction of a Nāginī on a balustrade. In traditional temple architecture, entrances are typically adorned with a moonstone, two guard stones, and paired balustrades. Guard stones usually feature a seven-hooded Nāga (serpent king), while representations of the female counterpart, the Nāginī, are extremely uncommon.

At this site, the Nāginī is carved on the inner face of the left balustrade at the entrance. Her head is crowned with the same number of hoods as the Nāga on the opposite side, symbolizing their equal role as guardians of the sacred space.

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Driving Directions to Polonnaruwa Sacred City

The modern town of Polonnaruwa is also known as New Town, and the other part of Polonnaruwa remains the ancient royal city of the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa.

Route from Colombo to Polonnaruwa Sacred City	Route from Kandy to Polonnaruwa Sacred City
Through: Central Highway—Kurunegala—Dambulla Distance from Colombo: 230 km Travel Time: 5 hours Driving Directions: See on Google Maps.	Through: Maradankadawala–Habarana Distance: 103 km Travel Time: 2 hours Driving Directions: see on Google Maps.
Route from Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa Sacred City	Route from Batticaloa to Polonnaruwa Sacred City
Through: Maradankadawala–Habarana Distance: 103 km Travel Time: 2 hours Driving Directions: See on Google Maps.	Through: Maradankadawala–Habarana Distance: 103 km Travel Time : 2 hours Driving Directions: see on Google Maps.