Thivanka Pilima Geya

Julia Kadibash - Google

A massive image house providing shelter to a thrice-bent 6.6 meter tall Buddha statue. The Buddha statue is unique for its thrice-bent posture, as normally in Sri Lankan history the posture was revered for female figures.

Built by King Parakramabahu I, the pilimage is one of the well preserved monuments in Polonnaruwa. The building was built using clay bricks and lime mortar. It is 133 feet long and 68 feet wide with 7 to 12 feet thick walls protecting the statue inside. Inside the building there are remains of frescoes depicting the life of Buddha and Jataka stories. The exterior of the building was decorated with lots of amazing sculptures.

Thivanka Pilimage is at the very end of the ancient city, but it is one of the must see places in Polonnaruwa. The guards will request you to wear appropriate clothing when visiting.