Amongst the ancient structures in Anuradhapura, one which is of immense popularity and brilliant architectural beauty is the Kuttam Pokuna. The magnificent Kuttam Pokuna, or the Twin Ponds, can be cited as one of the best examples of ancient bathing tanks in Sri Lanka, and stand as a symbol of the hydrological prowess of ancient Sri Lanka.
Believed to have been constructed between the 6th and 8th Century AD, for the bathing purposes of the monks who resided at the Abhayagiriya Monastery, the Kuttam Pokuna is considered to be an architectural masterpiece of its time. Even today, the beauty of these splendid ponds continues to dazzle and amaze the many people who visit them each year. Although these ponds are considered to be identical, there is a difference in the size of the two ponds, with the larger one being 132 ft by 51 ft and the smaller pond being 91 ft by 51 ft. Though these ponds differ in size, their architecture and design are identical, with even the intricate carvings on the ponds matching each other. The water to these ponds is supplied through a series of underground pipes, which passed through several filtering chambers, providing clean water to the ponds. Though the underground pipes no longer function, remains of these ancient filtering chambers can still be seen. The steps which lead into the ponds, the ancient naga guard stones, and the walls of the pond have been constructed which such architectural skill that their beauty can be savoured today, almost 13 centuries later. The Kuttam Pokuna is one of the finest works of ancient Sri Lankan architectural and hydrological skill, and therefore is a must-see site for all who visit the city of Anuradhapura.
One of the best hotels to stay in and enjoy the ancient culture of Anuradhapura is the Sigiriya Village, a tranquil and exotic jungle retreat. This tranquil Sigiriya hotel provides accommodation in spacious and elegantly furnished rooms, while providing excellent hospitality services. One can also enjoy a range of health and fitness facilities, many adventure and leisure facilities and culinary delights in fine dining restaurants, making the Sigiriya Village one of the highly recommendable hotels in Sigiriya.
