Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)

Anuradhapura, North Central

A pair of finely dressed stone bathing pools on the edge of the Abhayagiri complex, built around the 6th to 8th century AD. The two rectangular pools, one slightly smaller and older than the other, are linked by an underground pipe and decorated with carved steps, a five-headed cobra guardstone, and a punkalasa (pot of abundance) motif. They are considered one of the finest examples of ancient Sinhalese hydraulic engineering and stonework on the island.

Best time to visit

Any time of day; the pools are shaded in parts and pleasant even at midday.

Visitor tip

Covered by the Anuradhapura ancient city ticket; look for the carved cobra guardstone at the smaller pool.

Local pick

A quieter, more intimate stop than the big stupas, good for a slower ten minutes with kids looking for carvings.

Quick answers

Where is Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)?

Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds) is in Anuradhapura, North Central Province, Sri Lanka.

When is the best time to visit Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)?

Any time of day; the pools are shaded in parts and pleasant even at midday.

How far is Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds) from Colombo?

About 170 km in a straight line. Road journeys are longer, so check current travel times before you go.

What is near Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)?

Nearby places include Abhayagiri Stupa (about 1 km away), Jetavanaramaya (about 1 km away), Ruwanwelisaya (about 2 km away), Thuparamaya (about 2 km away).

Nearby places

• Abhayagiri StupaAnuradhapura
• JetavanaramayaAnuradhapura
• RuwanwelisayaAnuradhapura
• ThuparamayaAnuradhapura

More places in North Central Province

Planning a trip? See the top attractions in Sri Lanka, the best time to visit and how many days you need.