Statue of King Parakramabahu
A 4-meter tall rock-cut statue believed to depict the legendary king.
heritage
Parakrama Samudra
North Central Province
Best Time to Visit: May to September
Ideal Duration: 1 day
5 Highlights
About Parakrama Samudra
Parakrama Samudra is a testament to the "Hydraulic Civilization" of ancient Sri Lanka. It is a collection of three separate reservoirs connected by narrow channels. King Parakramabahu I famously declared that "not even a drop of water from the rain should flow into the ocean without being useful to man," and this sea is the physical manifestation of that vision.
Highlights
Sunset over the Inland Sea
Potgul Vehera Ruins
King Parakramabahu Statue
Ancient Irrigation Sluice Gates
Bird Watching on the Bund
Top Attractions
The Bund Walk
A scenic 12km walking and cycling path along the edge of the reservoir.
Local Cuisine
Reservoir TilapiaFreshwater fish caught from the Samudra, typically deep-fried with local spices.
Ambula (Farmer's Lunch)A traditional meal of red rice and lake fish curry.
Cultural Etiquette
The winds can be strong on the bund; be careful when cycling
Respect the local fishermen at work
Do not litter in the water
Seasonal Events
Full Moon PoyaMonthlyThe reservoir looks like a silver ocean under the full moon.