Kumara Pokuna is King Parakramabahu the Great's 12th-century royal bath, where dragon-mouthed gargoyles once fed water past a lotus-shaped resting pedestal for the king's private leisure.

Why visit Kumara pokuna

• Royal Bathing Pond: Kumara Pokuna was a royal bath from the Polonnaruwa period. It was part of King Parakramabahu's palace garden. The pond's original name was "Sila Pokkharani."
• Advanced Water System: Water flows into the pond through two makara gargoyles. These are supplied by underground pipelines from a nearby canal. A stone water lock on the other side acts as a valve to release used water.
• Lotus-Shaped Pedestal: The center of the pond features a unique lotus-shaped pedestal. This was likely used as a resting place.
• Architectural Details: The pond's design includes a long flight of stone steps. It also has a stone-paved floor. Ruins of a nearby changing room show a moonstone and a molded plinth.
• Dual Purpose: The pond served both practical and symbolic purposes. It provided a water supply for the city. It was also a ceremonial and leisure area for the king and nobility.