
Baddhasima Prasada Chapter House
Explore the remnants of the largest chapter house in ancient Sri Lanka, a monumental monastic structure from Polonnaruwa's past.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds

Baddhasima Prasada Chapter House
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the remnants of the largest chapter house in ancient Sri Lanka, a monumental monastic structure from Polonnaruwa's past.
"A significant historical site, recognized as the largest chapter house in ancient Sri Lanka."

Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven ancient ruins, so comfortable footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Local orange juice is also a refreshing option! :droplet:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Scale of the Chapter House
Alahana Pirivena complex
Explore the remains of what's believed to be the largest chapter house in ancient Sri Lanka, a testament to its past grandeur.

Monastic Columns
Main structure
Marvel at the numerous stone columns that once supported a massive, possibly 12-story, structure for monks.

Proximity to Gal Viharaya
Near Gal Viharaya
Conveniently located near the famous Gal Viharaya, allowing for easy combination of visits to key Polonnaruwa sites.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Baddhasima Prasada
Understanding the Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven ancient ruins, so comfortable footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Local orange juice is also a refreshing option! :droplet:
Respect Sacred Sites
Photography is prohibited inside Buddhist temples. Remember to remove hats and shoes before entering. :pray:
Combine with Gal Viharaya
This site is conveniently located near Gal Viharaya, making it easy to visit both in one trip. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven ancient ruins, so comfortable footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Local orange juice is also a refreshing option! :droplet:
Respect Sacred Sites
Photography is prohibited inside Buddhist temples. Remember to remove hats and shoes before entering. :pray:
Combine with Gal Viharaya
This site is conveniently located near Gal Viharaya, making it easy to visit both in one trip. :world_map:
Consider a Local Guide
A guide can offer deeper insights into the history and significance of the ruins. :man_detective:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Baddhasima Prasada Chapter House to be a significant historical site, recognized as the largest chapter house in ancient Sri Lanka. Its impressive scale and connection to monastic life are highlights, though the ruins can be challenging to fully visualize without context. It's appreciated for its historical depth and its proximity to other key Polonnaruwa attractions.
"It’s believed that this place was the chapter house of monks in Alahana Pirivena. According to the Mahawamsa this place was a 12 storied building. The remains in this place supports this theory ( maybe 12 but 4-6 storied)
Sources confirmed that this is the largest chapter house in ancient SriLanka"
Sunimal Rathnayake
"One of the wonders of Polonnaruwa medieval kingdom. According to Mahawansa, Badda Sima Prasasadaya was a monk's chapter house where monks practice code of disciplines who studied in Alahana Pirivena. The place was twelve stories high with more wooden floors in the top. The building had also housed the Tooth Relic as to the given inscriptions."
Vindika Lokunarangodage
"This is the largest Uposathagharaya in Sri Lanka. According to the Mahavansa this was twelve storied."
NH Samarasinghe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Baddhasima Prasada Chapter House is located within the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. You can reach Polonnaruwa by bus or train from major cities like Colombo. Once in Polonnaruwa, you can hire a tuk-tuk or rent a bicycle to explore the ancient city sites, including the chapter house. Many visitors combine this visit with other attractions like Gal Viharaya.
The chapter house is part of the larger Alahana Pirivena complex, which is well-signposted within the Polonnaruwa ancient city. Following signs for Alahana Pirivena or Gal Viharaya will lead you to the vicinity.
Many travelers opt to rent bicycles or hire tuk-tuks to navigate the vast ancient city of Polonnaruwa. This allows for flexibility and easy access to various sites like Baddhasima Prasada.
From Polonnaruwa town, head towards the ancient city entrance. The Baddhasima Prasada Chapter House is situated within the Alahana Pirivena section, often found near the Gal Viharaya.
Yes, using GPS navigation apps on your smartphone can be helpful. Search for 'Baddhasima Prasada Chapter House' or 'Alahana Pirivena' for directions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a ticket is generally required to enter the Polonnaruwa ancient city archaeological site, which includes Baddhasima Prasada. You can purchase tickets at the main entrance or designated ticket counters.
The ancient city of Polonnaruwa, including Baddhasima Prasada, is typically open from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's advisable to check the official timings upon arrival as they can vary.
There is an entrance fee for the Polonnaruwa archaeological site. The exact cost can vary, so it's best to confirm at the ticket office.
While the site is generally accessible during daylight hours, visiting during the cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late afternoon, is recommended to avoid the midday sun.
As a historical and religious site, visitors are expected to dress modestly and behave respectfully. Photography may be restricted in certain areas, especially within any remaining religious structures.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
It's known as the largest chapter house in ancient Sri Lanka, believed to be a 12-story building where monks practiced religious disciplines and codes. It's a significant part of the Alahana Pirivena complex.
You can explore the extensive ruins, including numerous stone columns that once supported the massive structure, and imagine its former grandeur.
The ruins offer a unique photographic opportunity, especially during the golden hour. However, remember that photography might be prohibited inside any remaining sacred structures.
Allow at least 30-60 minutes to explore Baddhasima Prasada, especially if you're interested in its historical significance. This can be extended if you're combining it with nearby sites.
Basic facilities might be available at the main visitor centers or near popular attractions within the ancient city. It's always best to carry your own water and snacks.
🎫 🎨 Art & Local Crafts
While exploring Polonnaruwa, you might encounter local artists selling their work. One TikTok video showcased an artist painting for a reasonable price.
Yes, you can often find souvenir shops or local vendors selling handicrafts and traditional items in and around the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.
You might find paintings depicting local scenes, Buddhist art, or traditional Sri Lankan motifs.
🍽️ 💧 Food & Drink
There are often small stalls or shops within or near the ancient city selling drinks and snacks. You can find local orange juice for a very affordable price.
While there might not be full-service restaurants directly within the ruins, you can find local eateries and food stalls in the nearby town of Polonnaruwa.
Freshly squeezed orange juice is a popular and refreshing choice, often available at very low prices.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Budget Travelers
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Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance of Baddhasima Prasada
Further inscriptions indicate that this chapter house may have also served as a repository for the sacred Tooth Relic, one of Buddhism's most revered relics. This adds another layer of spiritual significance to the site. The remains, with their numerous columns, support the theory of a grand, multi-storied edifice, making it a remarkable feat of ancient architecture.
Visiting Baddhasima Prasada offers a tangible connection to this rich past. As you walk among the ruins, you can almost envision the monks going about their daily lives, contributing to the intellectual and spiritual heritage of the island. It stands as a testament to the advanced civilization that once thrived in Polonnaruwa.
Exploring the Ruins: What to Expect
The site is part of the broader Alahana Pirivena, an ancient monastic university. Exploring Baddhasima Prasada often involves walking on uneven ground, so wearing comfortable footwear is essential. The open-air nature of the ruins means it can get quite warm, especially during the midday sun. Therefore, visiting during the cooler hours of the early morning or late afternoon is highly recommended for a more comfortable experience.
Many visitors find the scale of the ruins impressive and a great spot for photography, particularly during the golden hour when the light casts a warm glow on the ancient stones. Remember to be respectful of the historical and religious nature of the site.
Local Encounters and Experiences
For refreshments, you can find local vendors offering simple yet refreshing options. A notable mention is the local orange juice, available at very low prices, providing a taste of local produce and a welcome respite from the heat. These small encounters with local culture and commerce enrich the overall journey, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.
When exploring the ancient city, consider embracing the local mode of transport. Renting a bicycle or hiring a tuk-tuk allows for a more immersive experience, letting you discover hidden corners and interact with locals along the way. These experiences, from art to local drinks and transport, contribute to a well-rounded visit to Polonnaruwa.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit