Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle is rich in history, covering ancient cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla and Habarana as well as the last Royal Capital, Kandy (Further details on Kandy available in the hill country region). This area encompasses timeless Anuradhapura historical places, Polonnaruwa Vatadage and other things to do in Polonnaruwa, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and what to do in Sigiriya; the Golden Cave Temple and places to visit in Dambulla and more.
Apart from these attractions, there are places of significance such as the citadel of Yapahuwa and the Ritigala forest monastery. The region is also famous for large gatherings of Asian Elephants at the Minneriya, Kawudulla and Wasgamuwa National Parks.
Renowned as the heart of Sri Lankan civilisation of all time, Anuradhapura was the greatest monastic city of the ancient world for over a millennium. It was then made royal capital in 380 BC by King Pandukabhaya and was Sri Lanka’s first ancient kingdom and capital. Visiting Anuradhapura would take you back in time reflecting with imagination visualising how busy and active this city was during its golden years.
As a medieval capital second only to Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa is distinguished for its well-preserved ruins reflecting Sri Lanka’s ancient history, dating back to the Anuradhapuran era making it one of the most cultural sites. The city earned its recognition as an important local commercial centre replacing Anuradhapura which was ravaged and left for ruin.
Located within the Cultural Triangle in the district of Anuradhapura and 172 kilometres from Colombo, sits the quaint village of Habarana. A city renowned for its beautiful lake that is a magnet for birds and its series of relatively upmarket tourist hotels which make it an ideal departure
A walk along terraced gardens to a stairway leading you to a view of the Island’s stretch that unfolds through the eyes of a king. Revered as the 8th wonder of the world, the spectacular citadel of Sigiriya is a monumental sight that takes the breath away of every visitor. Located in the heart of the island between Dambulla and Habarana, this extraordinary fortress sits on top of a giant rock looming 180 metres high.
Famed for its Golden Cave Temple, the little town of Dambulla is a part of the Cultural Triangle located in the Matale District in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. It sits 182 kilometres away from Colombo and 72 kilometres from Kandy. Sinhalese people refer to Dambulla as ‘Dambulu Gala’- Dambulla Rock and the temple is called as the ‘Rangiri Dambulu Viharaya’ – Golden Rock Dambulla Temple.
