Historical Sites in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is one of Asia’s richest treasure troves of man made wonders which provide a hub for tourists from around the world:-

Anuradhapura (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

The first capital of Sri Lanka established in the 4th century BC but destroyed in the 10th century AD. It is situated in the North-Central part of the Island and served as the royal capital for 133 kings. It is only in the last century that it was re-discovered and reclaimed from the jungle. It is set amid acres of parkland and includes many fine Buildings such as  the Dagobas of  Ruwanweli, Thuparama, Jetavanarama  and Abhayagiri which after the Egyptian pyramids were the largest structures erected anywhere in the ancient world. There are also vast reservoirs (tanks), statues and the world-famous Sri Maha Bodhiya. This is the 2,000 year old Bo Tree which is said to have grown from a cutting of the Bo Tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment in India.

Polonnaruwa (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

This is the second capital of Sri Lanka established in the 10th century AD. The numerous ruins of this city include royal palaces, stupas and temples. The superbly carved Vatadage (meaning circular relic temple) is considered to be one of the most beautiful buildings in Sri Lanka.  The magnificent statues at the Gal Vihara, including the famous five-meter long reclining Buddha are one of the island’s great artistic treasures.

Sigiriya (Lion Rock) (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

It is the best-preserved city centre in Asia from the first millennium and is a simply stunning site which covers a 200m high rock. It was the capital of Sri Lanka in the 5th century AD. The climb to the top is from water gardens at the base up through an array of galleries and staircases emerging from the mouth of a huge lion. The frescoes of the damsels are world famous. It is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous attractions with stupendous views from the top looking out over the plains of the Cultural Triangle.

Galle Fort (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

This is a Dutch Fort built in the 17th century used to house spices which was built over the remains of a Portuguese fort. It is the best example of a fortified city built by Europeans in South and South-East Asia.

Kandy

Kandy was the last royal capital before the British acquired complete control of Sri Lanka.  Pride of place in the city is occupied by the famous Temple of the Tooth (Dalada Maligawa), home to the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha.