Historic Sites

A country rich in history, Sri Lanka houses various ancient, impressive, and architecturally rich sites that reflect the beauty of the country. Housing numerous forts and UNESCO World Heritage sites, Sri Lanka will surely impress you with its jaw dropping feats accomplished by ancient civilizations. Whether you want to learn about traditional ways of life or explore the island’s historical religious influences, a tour to Sri Lanka’s historical sites will help you explore it all.

Polonnaruwa ? A city renowned for its ancient ruins, the archaeological square of Polonnaruwa is a great place to experience age-old artefacts, tombs, stupas, structural remains of temples and statues. The statue of King Parakramabahu I is the one to look out for. Another prominent ancient structure is the Nissankalata Mandapaya or King Nissankamalla’s (1187-1196) Council Chamber.

Sigiriya ? While referring to the city of Sigriya, the ancient Rock Fortress of this place is what comes to the mind first. Other sites along the climb up to the Rock’s summit include ancient moats, walkways, ruins of what once used to be gardens or courtyards, ponds and stairwells.

Anuradhapura ? The first ancient capital of Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura is still a sacred Buddhist religious center, and was titled as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the year 1982. The city is also home to one of the largest and most sacred Bodhi trees in Sri Lanka, believed to be a descendant of the Bodhi tree where Buddha was illuminated.

Yapahuwa ? A 300ft rock fortress that was once home to Buddha’s Sacred Tooth Relic, Yapahuwa is often scaled as an alternative to climbing Sigiriya. The Yapahuwa stone Lion sits smiling at its visitors while an amazing stone stairway revives evidence of an entrance to the King’s fortress, which was also his royal palace.

Galle ? Galle lets you enjoy an intriguing time while offering knowledge of the past at the same time offering an insight to the culture and tradition of the country. Galle Fort, overlooking the Indian Ocean, was declared a World Heritage Site. A vibrant part of the city, the fort lets you explore the rich cultural heritage of the country.

Kataragama ? Kataragama should be your first place to visit if a spiritual tour is what’s on your mind. Frequented by thousands of devotees and pilgrims from various religious backgrounds, particularly Hindus and Buddhists, through the ages travelling here to receive blessings for a new house, car, children’s education, good health, and for absolutely anything as a matter fact, Kataragama is considered the home of true sanctity.