Skip to main content
Kuttam Pokuna

Kuttam Pokuna Tourism

Kuttam Pokuna Tourism

Type of destination: Historical
Ideal visit duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Kuttam Pokuna or the Twin Ponds are an ancient and remarkable example of the bathing pools that were constructed in the kingdom of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. They are considered an architectural marvel of ancient hydrological engineering. The two ponds are built close to each other and are believed to have been used by the monks of Abhayagiri Monastery for their daily baths. They date back to the 6th-8th centuries AD and reflect the artistic and engineering skills of the ancient Sinhalese. The larger pool measures about 132 feet in length and the smaller one is approximately 91 feet, both featuring flights of steps on both ends elaborately carved with punkalasa (pot of plenty) and scroll designs. Water for the twin pools was supplied through an intricate underground system that ensured the water was always clean, and the engineering was so precise that the water level remains the same on both tanks. The sophisticated filtration system is considered one of the most significant features, indicating advanced technology in the field of hydraulics during the Anuradhapura period.
Top 5 Reviews on Kuttam Pokuna
petermY2777LY
Wrote on 17th Nov, 2023
Twin Baths Anuradhapura
These are well preserved old bathing tanks or ponds in Anuradhapura. They were built by the Sinhalese in the ancient Anuradhapura Kingdom. They form part of the Anhavagirl vihara complex. Eth Pokuna (..
proftsounis
Wrote on 1st Sep, 2023
Historical Visit
The Ottoman Bath was reserved for the Sultan’s harem. Artifacts of a bygone era, the time of Ottomanrule, are shown. Women were segregated from men this was their bathhouse Today they have musical con..
petermY2777LY
Wrote on 13th Aug, 2023
Twin Ponds (Kuttam Pokina)
The Twin Ponds (Kuttam Pokuna) are well preserved bathing tanks or ponds in Anuradhapura built by the Sinhalese and form part of the Abhavagri complex. Eth Pokuna (Elephant Pond) is the largest and I ..
Shardha
Wrote on 13th Jan, 2023
Wish I could swim in it
Just let your imagination run wild. You should let this transport you to 2,000 years ago to get impressed by it.
307kamalp
Wrote on 25th May, 2020
Best of stone work
Twin ponds is merely not an attractive set of ponds but a place where one can observe ancient water purification and desilting system, sending water column through scientifically designed set of stone..
Hill Stations (4)
Beaches (14)
Religious Places (46)
Historical Places (52)
Museums (11)
Wildlife Sanctuaries (9)
National Parks (3)
Forts (1)
Villages (1)
Zoos (2)
Mountains (1)
Island (2)
Gardens (9)
Waterfalls (6)
Dams (4)
Lakes (2)

Other Places to Visit in Anuradhapura

View all Places to Visit in Anuradhapura

Explore Places to Visit Near Kuttam Pokuna by Type

Other Suggested Reads for Kuttam Pokuna