Rankot Vihara

Rankot Vihara, built in the late 12th century during the reign of King Nissanka Malla, stands 55 metres tall and is the fourth largest stupa in Sri Lanka. Unlike the stupas of Anuradhapura, Rankot Vihara remains largely unrestored and retains the earthy, weathered appearance of a true ancient ruin, with trees growing from the brickwork and small shrines at its cardinal points. The stupa is constructed on the same architectural principles as the great Anuradhapura examples and served as a direct homage to that earlier tradition. It sits in the northern quarter of the Polonnaruwa archaeological park, near the Alahana Pirivena monastic complex. The combined Polonnaruwa ticket (approx USD 25) provides access to all major sites in the ancient city.