When invaders from southern India defeated the kingdom at Anuradhapura, the kings in Polonnaruwa came together to become the seat of the Sinhalese people. The kingdom of Polonnaruwa enjoyed several centuries of undisturbed prosperity as its location protected it from increased attacks by the Chola from India. By the 10th century, however, the attackers from India finally managed to capture Polonnaruwa and the capital of Sri Lanka came under Indian rule. As a result, the ancient city of Polonnaruwa today is a mix of Buddhist and Hindu sites, its temples and palaces showing strong Indian architectural influence. The beautifully preserved remains of this ancient capital made for a great final day in the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka and, guess what animal we saw in the wild today?! Bats, yes, bats and not just any bats. Giant bats. I am not exaggerating when I write that these bats had wingspans that were not much less than the length across my outstretched arms. I mean, these bats were HUGE and there were hundreds of them circling a tree by the river just after sunset. It was amazing! Despite the bats, the boys have definitely hit their limit for the exploration of crumbling ruins so it's a good thing that we head off for Sri Lanka's hill country tomorrow. It will be a great change of pace and scenery for all of us!
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