Exploring the Ancient Marvel: Eth Pokuna (Elephant Pond) in Anuradhapura

Nestled near the historic Lankaramaya stupa in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, lies a remarkable testament to ancient engineering and ingenuity—the Eth Pokuna, or Elephant Pond. This colossal man-made pond, with its impressive dimensions and intricate water supply system, stands as a silent witness to the grandeur of Sri Lanka’s ancient civilization. Let’s dive into the fascinating details of this ancient marvel.


A Glimpse into Eth Pokuna’s Grandeur

The Eth Pokuna is a massive rectangular tank, measuring 159 meters in length, 52.7 meters in width, and 9.5 meters in depth. With a staggering capacity of 75,000 cubic meters of water, it’s no wonder this pond earned its name, which translates to “Elephant Pond”—a nod to its sheer size and scale.

The pond is constructed from large stone blocks, meticulously arranged at an angle along its walls. Three sets of stairs, located on the south, north, and eastern sides, lead down to its unpaved bottom, hinting at its historical use by the monks of the nearby Abhayagiri Monastery.

A Lifeline from Periyamkulama Tank

What makes Eth Pokuna even more extraordinary is its sophisticated water supply system. Water is fed into the pond from the Periyamkulama Tank through an extensive network of underground conduits. These ancient canals, built from stone blocks, are a marvel of hydraulic engineering and continue to function even after centuries of use.

Before entering the pond, the water is filtered through external filter pits, ensuring its cleanliness. Remarkably, during the heavy rainy season of 1982, water was seen gushing through these stone-lined inlets, proving the enduring efficiency of this ancient system.

A Sacred Space for Monks

Eth Pokuna is believed to have been an integral part of the Abhayagiri Monastery, a sprawling 500-acre complex that once housed over 5,000 monks. The pond likely served as a vital water source for the monastery’s daily needs, including bathing and ritual purification.

Historical records, such as the Maha Bodhi Vamsa (written in the 12th century), mention two ponds in the Abhayagiri Monastery: Diggal Vila and Masthota Vila. Scholars believe that Masthota Vila is the pond we know today as Eth Pokuna. Interestingly, locals once referred to it as “Kuruwe Wewa”, adding another layer to its rich history.


A Testament to Ancient Engineering

The Eth Pokuna is not just a pond; it’s a symbol of the advanced engineering and architectural prowess of ancient Sri Lanka. The precision with which the stone blocks were laid, the ingenuity of the underground water conduits, and the sheer scale of the pond all speak volumes about the civilization that built it.

Visiting Eth Pokuna Today

Today, Eth Pokuna stands as a serene and awe-inspiring site for visitors to Anuradhapura. As you walk around its perimeter, you can still see portions of the ancient stone conduits and imagine the bustling activity of monks who once relied on this pond for their daily needs.

The pond’s tranquil atmosphere and historical significance make it a must-visit for anyone interested in Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture buff, or simply a curious traveler, Eth Pokuna offers a glimpse into a bygone era of innovation and spirituality.

Conclusion

The Eth Pokuna is more than just an ancient pond—it’s a living testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of Sri Lanka’s ancestors. Its enduring structure and functional water system remind us of the advanced civilization that once thrived in Anuradhapura. So, the next time you find yourself in this historic city, don’t miss the chance to witness this incredible feat of ancient engineering.

Have you visited Eth Pokuna? Share your experiences in the comments below!

 

Disclaimer: Historical details are based on available records and scholarly interpretations. Some aspects of Eth Pokuna’s history remain open to further research and discovery.




THE AUTHOR BY: I.D.M.V.B.ILANGANTHILAKA 

https://www.youtube.com/@StellarPath0722

https://www.pinterest.com/wimukthibi/_pins/

https://www.youtube.com/@SkylineNook-z7y

Location: 998M+M8G, Watawandana Rd, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

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