Located in the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Polonnaruwa, this colossal 12th-century man-made reservoir is an engineering masterpiece so vast that it resembles an inland sea.

Why visit Parakrama Samudraya

• A "Sea" of Engineering Genius: The reservoir is so large it was named "Samudraya," which means "the ocean." King Parakramabahu the Great built it. It supports over 18,000 acres of paddy land.
• Complex of Five Reservoirs: The "sea" originally consisted of five separate reservoirs. Smaller dams connected them. This was to reduce pressure on the main dam.
• Preservation of an Ancient Philosophy: The reservoir was built under a famous quote. "Do not let even a drop of rainwater in this country to go to the sea without use." This shows an ancient focus on water conservation.
• Impressive Dimensions: The main dam of the reservoir is over 14 kilometers long. It stands at a height of 12.2 meters. The water body covers 5,350 acres.
• Historical Royal Connection: The reservoir is tied to royal history. The oldest part, Topa wewa, was built around 386 AD. The other sections were added later by King Parakramabahu I.