10 Things to Do in Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds), Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Kuttam Pokuna, or the Twin Ponds, is one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in Sri Lanka. Located in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, the Twin Ponds are two large artificial ponds that were built in the 8th century. They are connected by a channel and are surrounded by a stone wall. The ponds are believed to have been used for rituals and other religious activities. Today, the Twin Ponds are a popular tourist attraction and offer a variety of activities for visitors. Here are 10 things to do when visiting the Twin Ponds in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
1. Explore the Ancient Ruins – The Twin Ponds are surrounded by the ruins of ancient temples and other structures. Take a walk around the site and explore the ruins to get a sense of the history and culture of the area.
2. Take a Boat Ride – The Twin Ponds are connected by a channel, and you can take a boat ride along the channel to get a unique view of the site. Boats can be rented from nearby vendors.
3. Visit the Archaeological Museum – The archaeological museum near the Twin Ponds is a great place to learn more about the history of the area. The museum has a variety of artifacts and exhibits related to the ancient city of Anuradhapura.
4. Take a Nature Walk – The Twin Ponds are surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife. Take a nature walk around the site and enjoy the beauty of the area.
5. Go Bird Watching – The Twin Ponds are a great spot for bird watching. You can spot a variety of birds, such as parrots, kites, and eagles.
6. Take a Cooking Class – Learn how to make traditional Sri Lankan dishes at a cooking class near the Twin Ponds. The class will teach you how to make curries, sambols, and other delicious dishes.
7. Visit the Local Markets – The local markets near the Twin Ponds are a great place to find souvenirs and other items. The markets also offer a variety of local food, such as fruits, vegetables, and spices.
8. Go on a Safari – Take a safari tour of the area and explore the nearby wildlife reserves. You can spot a variety of animals, such as elephants, leopards, and monkeys.
9. Visit the Ancient Temples – The Twin Ponds are surrounded by several ancient temples, such as the Isurumuniya Temple and the Thuparamaya Temple. Visit the temples to learn more about the history and culture of the area.
10. Enjoy a Sunset – The Twin Ponds are a great spot to watch the sunset. Enjoy the beautiful colors of the sky as the sun sets over the ancient city of Anuradhapura.
Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience or just want to relax and enjoy the beauty of the area, the Twin Ponds in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, offer a variety of activities for visitors. Spend a day exploring the ancient ruins, taking a boat ride, or bird watching, and you’ll be sure to have a memorable experience.