Kumara Pokuna in Polonnaruwa

Kumara Pokuna translates to prince‘s pond. Indeed, this seems to have been a royal bath, as the pond is located close to Parakramabahu’s palace and audience hall just outside the walls of the citadel in Polonnaruwa. Royal baths were often included in the layouts of ancient palaces in South Asia. Kumara Pokuna is located below the level of the citadel, allowing water from the nearby canal to flow easily into the basin. As the entire citadel, the Prince’s Pond was constructed during the period of King Parakramabahu the Great ( 1153-1186). The original name of the pond was "Sila Pokkharani" according to the Chulavamsa. The Kumara Pokuna is square in shape and has various levels. Water flows in to the pond via two Makarara sprouts which are located besides the entrance.

---

A pavilion located near the pond is said to have been used as changing room. Due to ist prestigious decoration with a frieze of lions, it seems more likely that this charming terrace once served as the platform of a royal summerhouse.

---