Bisopokuna: Monaragala's Hidden Ancient Kingdom Complex

Where the ruins of a forgotten royal palace whisper Sri Lanka's medieval secrets

A Royal Enigma in the Dry Zone

Tucked away near the Monaragala-Siyambalanduwa road, Bisopokuna ("Queen's Pond") is one of Sri Lanka's most intriguing yet overlooked archaeological sites. This 12th-century complex features:

• Royal palace remains from the Polonnaruwa-era
• Engineered pond with sophisticated hydraulics
• Defensive moats and ramparts
• Less than 1% the visitors of Sigiriya or Anuradhapura

Unraveling Bisopokuna's History

The Royal Connection

Possible Builders:

• King Parakramabahu I (1153-1186 AD) - Golden Age of Polonnaruwa
• Queen Sugala - Rebel monarch who controlled this region

The Sacred Pond:

• Sophisticated filteration system using stone layers
• Possibly used for royal purification rituals
• Still holds water in rainy season

Architectural Highlights

What Survives Today:

• Palace foundations with clear room divisions
• Guard stones and moonstones
• Fortification walls (3m thick in places)
• Ancient staircases leading to elevated sections

Visiting Bisopokuna: A Practical Guide

Getting There

Location:

• 8km from Monaragala town
• 500m off Monaragala-Siyambalanduwa Road

Access:

• Tuk-tuk from Monaragala (~Rs. 800 roundtrip)
• Private vehicle recommended (rough final approach)

Best Time to Visit

Hours: Daylight hours (no fencing)

Season:

• December-March: Dry but not too hot
• April-November: Lush greenery but leeches possible

What to Bring

• Sturdy shoes for rough terrain
• Water and sun protection
• Camera (morning/afternoon light best)

Nearby Hidden Gems

• Nilgala Forest Reserve:
  • Ancient cave monasteries
  • Wild elephant sightings
• Mulkirigala Raja Maha Vihara:
  • Rock temple with panoramic views
  • 17th-century Kandyan-era paintings
• Chena Honey Farms:
  • Taste wild honey from traditional cultivators

Why Bisopokuna Matters

Archaeological Significance:

• Shows expansion of Polonnaruwa's influence
• Demonstrates medieval military architecture
• Rare example of secondary royal complex

Ecological Context:

• Site blends with dry zone forest
• Birdwatching opportunities around pond

Responsible Tourism Tips

Preservation Needs:

• No entry fees or staff - visitors must be respectful
• Avoid climbing on fragile structures
• Carry out all trash

Enhance Your Visit:

• Read about Polonnaruwa period first
• Download Department of Archaeology maps

Book a Cultural Exploration

Let Sri Lanka Tour Help arrange:

• Expert archaeology guides
• Combined trips to Mulkirigala
• Comfortable transport from Monaragala

Plan your visit: https://srilankatourhelp.org