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Baddhasima Prasada Chapter House

4.9
·18 reviews·Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Terrasse

Baddhasima Prasada Chapter House

Best Time

Early morning

Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.9
(18 reviews)

"A significant historical site, recognized as the largest chapter house in ancient Sri Lanka."

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Scale of the Chapter House

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

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

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

Beat the heat and crowds by visiting Baddhasima Prasada Chapter House in the early morning or late afternoon. This ancient structure can get quite warm, and fewer visitors mean a more peaceful experience exploring the ruins. Consider visiting during the cooler months for optimal comfort.

Understanding the Significance

Baddhasima Prasada was a significant chapter house for monks studying at Alahana Pirivena, believed to be a 12-story building where religious disciplines were practiced. It may have also housed the Tooth Relic. Understanding its history enhances the appreciation of the ruins.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
March
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

බැදලද උයලද කියල බලා ගන්නා නිවරදිම ක්‍රමය😂#පොළොන්නරුවේ_අපි #onemillionaudition #👉🥀sl_tiktok_fun🥀👈 #sl_lk #polonnaruwa_pullingo #fannny
@sadu_bbh0
110.6K likes • 1.1M views

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:

Our Youtube channel Name - Gd gang #polonnaruwa🇱🇰 #පොලොන්නරුවෙ_ගැම්ම🇱🇰 #gdgang #godgang #groupofdifference @GD Madhusanka Boo @danush_thusitha @ASVIN_GD ___ @SWEET_SMILER_GD. @JANANI @DSL voice 🍃GD™🍃 @GD❣️DOMA @santhoshiman
@group_of_difference
91.1K likes • 629K views
රකින තැන රැකෙන්නත් හැම කෙල්ලටම බෑ 🥺🫀❤️ #hs_status🤞🥀 #fypシ #viralvideo #1millionaudition #polonnaruwa
@mr_hs_offlcial
31.8K likes • 383.8K views

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:

මේ සමාජය කුරුරියි කියලා මෙහෙම තිරණ ගන්න එපා.හැමදේකටම මුහුණ දෙන්න 🥺 #polonnaruwa🇱🇰 #පොලොන්නරුවෙ_ගැම්ම🇱🇰 #gdgang #groupofdifference #godgang ⭕️voice dubbing- @DSL voice 🍃GD™🍃 ⭕️@GD Madhusanka Boo @danush_thusitha @santhoshiman @ASVIN_GD ___ @JANANI @GD❣️DOMA @Naveen navi -GD GANG 😎 @SWEET_SMILER_GD.
@group_of_difference
31.3K likes • 286.3K views

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

4.9
(18 reviews)

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

Largest chapter house
Historical significance
Proximity to Gal Viharaya

What People Dislike

Ruins require imagination

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. TikTok+1

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. Reddit

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. TikTok+1

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. Reddit

Yes, using GPS navigation apps on your smartphone can be helpful. Search for 'Baddhasima Prasada Chapter House' or 'Alahana Pirivena' for directions. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

🎫 🏛️ 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. Reddit

You can explore the extensive ruins, including numerous stone columns that once supported the massive structure, and imagine its former grandeur. Reddit

The ruins offer a unique photographic opportunity, especially during the golden hour. However, remember that photography might be prohibited inside any remaining sacred structures. TikTok+1

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

🎫 🎨 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. TikTok

Yes, you can often find souvenir shops or local vendors selling handicrafts and traditional items in and around the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. TikTok

You might find paintings depicting local scenes, Buddhist art, or traditional Sri Lankan motifs. TikTok

🍽️ 💧 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. TikTok

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. TikTok

Freshly squeezed orange juice is a popular and refreshing choice, often available at very low prices. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Baddhasima Prasada with children can be an educational adventure. The sheer scale of the ruins can spark their imagination about ancient civilizations. Encourage them to imagine the monks and the grand structure that once stood there. TikTok Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities can be limited. TikTok Consider renting bicycles to make exploring the vast ancient city more engaging for younger ones. TikTok

🚶 Budget Travelers

Baddhasima Prasada is an excellent addition to a budget-friendly trip to Polonnaruwa. The entrance fee to the ancient city is generally reasonable, and exploring the ruins themselves is free once inside. TikTok Opting for local transport like bicycles or tuk-tuks, and enjoying affordable local drinks like orange juice, keeps costs down. TikTok+1

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The ruins of Baddhasima Prasada offer compelling photographic opportunities, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The interplay of light and shadow on the ancient stones creates dramatic scenes. TikTok While photography is generally allowed, be mindful of any restrictions within sacred areas. TikTok The vastness of the site and the intricate details of the remaining columns provide ample subjects for creative shots. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historical Significance of Baddhasima Prasada

The Baddhasima Prasada Chapter House is a crucial component of the Alahana Pirivena complex in Polonnaruwa. Historical texts, particularly the Mahawamsa, describe it as a monumental structure, potentially reaching twelve stories high. This was not just a building but a center for monastic life, where monks studied and practiced the code of disciplines. Its sheer scale suggests its importance in the religious and educational landscape of ancient Sri Lanka. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

Exploring the Ruins: What to Expect

When you visit Baddhasima Prasada, you'll encounter a sprawling site characterized by numerous stone columns and the foundations of a massive structure. While the upper stories are long gone, the sheer number and size of the remaining columns hint at the building's original grandeur and complexity. It's believed to have been the largest chapter house in ancient Sri Lanka, designed to accommodate a significant number of monks. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. TikTok

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. TikTok+1

Local Encounters and Experiences

Beyond the historical ruins, Polonnaruwa offers glimpses into local life. One traveler shared an encounter with a talented Sri Lankan artist selling his paintings for a surprisingly affordable price, highlighting the local talent and the accessibility of art in the area. TikTok This interaction adds a personal touch to the travel experience, connecting visitors with the community. TikTok

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. TikTok These small encounters with local culture and commerce enrich the overall journey, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. TikTok

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. TikTok+1 These experiences, from art to local drinks and transport, contribute to a well-rounded visit to Polonnaruwa. TikTok

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