Parakrama Samudraya

Parakrama Samudraya: The Inland Sea

When King Parakramabahu the Great declared that "not even a little water that comes from the rain is to flow into the ocean without being made useful to man," he commissioned the creation of the **Parakrama Samudraya**. This "Sea of Parakrama" is not just a reservoir but a massive irrigation system consisting of five interconnected tanks. It transformed the dry plains around Polonnaruwa into a fertile breadbasket, a role it continues to play today, over 800 years later.

Ancient Engineering and Modern Life

The reservoir's dam (bund) stretches for nearly 14 kilometers, an incredible feat of ancient hydraulic engineering. The water fuels the vast paddy fields of the region and supports a rich ecosystem of freshwater fish and birdlife. At dusk, the reservoir creates a microclimate that cools the entire town, making the walk along the bund a favorite evening activity for both locals and travelers. The sheer scale of the water surface often tricks the mind into thinking one is standing by the ocean.

Sunset Serenity with HBS Tours

**HBS Tours** often schedules visits to the reservoir as the final stop of the day. The reflections of the orange and purple sky on the vast water are truly spectacular. We also recommend visiting the nearby statue of a man holding a manuscript, popularly believed to be King Parakramabahu himself, standing atop a rocky outcrop overlooking his greatest life's work.

Activities for Nature Lovers

Walking or cycling along the bund as the sun sets is an unmissable experience. For those interested in local culture, you can often see traditional fishermen using small outrigger canoes. The area is also excellent for observing water birds like pelicans and cormorants. We can arrange for a peaceful lakeside tea or snack, allowing you to soak in the monumental history while enjoying the breeze.