Kiri Viharaya
Kiri Viharaya is the second-largest stupa that is considered a best-preserved Stupa in the Ancient city of Polonnaruwa. This belonged to the archaeological site Alahana Pirivena and was called “Rupavathi Stupa” in the past. A queen of king Parakramabahu named “Subadra” is said to be the builder of Kiri Vehera. This is situated north to the Lankathilaka Pilima Geya.
This stupa is 80 feet in height and has a diameter of 88 feet at the base level, surrounded by four regular frontispieces at the cardinal points. The original condition remains even after 900 years of surviving in natural forces.
Small rectangular Buddha shrines with brick roofs on either side of the frontispieces are restored and well-maintained. The bubble-shaped dome rises upward from a base of three receding terraces, and the lime plaster of the dome is better preserved compared to most of the other stupa found in Polonnaruwa.
These domes have been identified as burial chambers of high priests and royal family members. Treasure hunters have attacked many of these, including Kiri Vehera stupa and their valuables looted.
