Shiva Devale No 1
A 10th-11th century stone Hindu temple showcasing Chola craftsmanship and Pandyan architecture, still active today.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Shiva Devale No 1
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 10th-11th century stone Hindu temple showcasing Chola craftsmanship and Pandyan architecture, still active today.
"A peaceful and beautiful place with amazing stone carvings and a unique style."
👟 Remove Shoes Before Entry
Essential for all visitors to show respect. Keep an eye on your footwear.
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees to respect the sacred nature of the site. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stone Shiva Lingam
Inner Sanctum
The heart of the temple, an ancient stone Shiva lingam, still worshipped today. A powerful symbol of devotion.
Pandyan Architectural Style
Exterior and Interior
Marvel at the precise stone construction, a stunning example of Pandyan architecture with no visible mortar.
Intricate Carvings
Temple Walls
Discover the detailed stone carvings that adorn the temple walls, showcasing the artistry of the Chola period.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visits
Stone Architecture Marvel
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Remove Shoes Before Entry
Essential for all visitors to show respect. Keep an eye on your footwear.
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees to respect the sacred nature of the site. :pray:
📸 Photography Rules
Photography might be prohibited inside. Always check for signs before taking pictures. :camerawithflash:
🚶♂️ Peaceful Exploration
Enjoy the quiet ambiance. It's a sacred space for devotion and reflection. :leafy_green:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Remove Shoes Before Entry
Essential for all visitors to show respect. Keep an eye on your footwear.
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees to respect the sacred nature of the site. :pray:
📸 Photography Rules
Photography might be prohibited inside. Always check for signs before taking pictures. :camerawithflash:
🚶♂️ Peaceful Exploration
Enjoy the quiet ambiance. It's a sacred space for devotion and reflection. :leafy_green:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shiva Devale No. 1 is praised for its well-preserved stone architecture and its significance as an active Hindu temple. Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the historical insights it offers into the Chola period and Pandyan architectural styles. Some note that it's a smaller site compared to others in Polonnaruwa, but its sacredness and unique construction make it a meaningful stop.
"Siva Devale No. 1 is an ancient Hindu temple in Polonnaruwa, dating back to the 10th–11th century during the Chola rule. Built entirely of stone, the structure has survived remarkably well. Inside, you’ll find a Shiva lingam and remnants of intricate carvings. It’s a peaceful and sacred spot, offering insight into the rich Hindu influence in the ancient city. A meaningful stop for history and culture lovers exploring Polonnaruwa."
Peri Inban
"Visited the Sivan Kovil in Polonnaruwa, and it was a peaceful and beautiful place. As a Hindu temple, it has amazing stone carvings and a unique style that stands out from the other sites in the area. It’s smaller compared to some of the bigger temples, but the quiet atmosphere makes it special. The history and devotion in the place can really be felt, making it a nice stop for anyone exploring Polonnaruwa."
Nirman Dissanayake
"Siva temple built by Cholas in the 11 century AD. It's now been conserved.
Recent excavations have found an older building resembling a temple that belongs to an earlier period."
Kishān Chalī
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shiva Devale No. 1 is located within the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, often visited as part of a larger tour. You can hire a bicycle, an auto-rickshaw, or a car to explore the archaeological park. It's situated between the Royal Palace complex and the Sacred Quadrangle.
Yes, it's part of the main Polonnaruwa archaeological site, which is well-maintained for visitors. The paths are generally clear, making it easy to walk between the various ruins.
Many visitors rent bicycles to explore the vast archaeological park at their own pace. Auto-rickshaws are also readily available for hire.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a ticket for the Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum and Park is required to enter the site where Shiva Devale No. 1 is located. This ticket covers most of the major ancient ruins.
The Polonnaruwa archaeological sites, including Shiva Devale No. 1, are typically open from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to check the most current hours upon arrival or online.
The entry fee is for the entire Polonnaruwa archaeological site. The cost is generally reasonable and provides access to numerous historical wonders.
While the site has general opening hours, visiting during quieter times like early morning or late afternoon can enhance the experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find the ancient stone Shiva lingam, which is still an object of worship. The structure itself, built entirely of stone, is a marvel of ancient engineering.
Photography inside sacred spaces like temples can be restricted. It's advisable to look for signage or ask a local guide before taking photos.
Built in the 10th-11th century during the Chola rule, it's a significant example of Hindu influence in ancient Sri Lanka and showcases Pandyan architectural style.
It can get busy, especially during peak tourist seasons. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can offer a more peaceful experience.
It's important to dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees out of respect for the religious site.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior stone work and the surrounding ancient city provide excellent photographic opportunities. Capture the intricate details of the stone construction.
Yes, photography inside the inner sanctum where the Shiva lingam is located is often prohibited. Always check for signs.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a wide-angle lens for capturing the architecture and a prime lens for details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Combine this visit with other more visually engaging ruins in the Polonnaruwa complex, like the Royal Palace or the Quadrangle, to keep younger visitors engaged. Ensure children are dressed appropriately and understand the need to remove shoes. The open spaces around the temple can also offer a chance for them to stretch their legs.
🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the stone Shiva lingam, which signifies the temple's enduring religious purpose. The intricate carvings, though weathered, provide valuable insights into the art and iconography of the era. Consider hiring a local guide to gain a deeper understanding of the historical context and the significance of the site within the broader Polonnaruwa ancient city.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels of the Chola Era
Visitors are often struck by the absence of plastering and the sheer durability of the stone. The temple's design, though now roofless, is believed to have originally featured a brick roof. The intricate carvings found on its walls further add to its historical and artistic significance, offering glimpses into the religious and cultural practices of the time. Exploring Shiva Devale No. 1 is like stepping back in time to appreciate a significant chapter of Sri Lankan history and Hindu heritage.
A Sacred Space for Devotion
As a place of worship, visitors are expected to show respect. This includes dressing modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and removing shoes before entering the temple premises. While the exterior and general temple grounds are open for exploration, photography inside the inner sanctum where the lingam is housed may be restricted.
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