Polonnaruwa was Sri Lanka’s spectacular second ancient city, and the ruins from this golden age vividly reflect some of the most well-preserved architectural treasures of the time. Dating back to the tenth century, the ruins incorporate palaces, monasteries, Buddhist and Hindu temples, dagobas and many beautiful statues, and sit beneath shady trees near the Parakrama Samudra Tank. The compact site can easily be visited in a day, and the best way to see all the sights is to hire a bicycle and gently peddle between the ruins.