Sri Lanka contains seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites that showcase the island's rich history and its contribution to civilization. Most of these are located in the Cultural Triangle, the area formed by linking the ancient capitals of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Kandy.
Anuradhapura:
The Sacred city of Anuradhapura located in the North Central Province, 206 km from Colombo, features some of the most ancient archaeological sites such as Mahavihara, the oldest of the city's monasteries, Sri Maha Bodhi Bo-tree and dagobas, ie. the Thuparama, Jetavana , Abhayagiri, Ruvanvalisaya, the most famous ones.
The magnificent Kuttam Pokuna, the Brazen Palace the Isurumuniya rock temple and vast reservoirs such as the Basawakkulama, Tissa Wewa and the Nuwara Wewa are some of the living testament to the engineering skills of the ancient rulers.
Polonnaruwa:
Polonnaruwa, located 142km from Colombo, is the medieval capital in the 12th century AD.
The Sea of Parakrama, Royal Palace and Council Chamber, Vatadage, Gal potha, the Lankatilaka shrine and Gal Vihara and many South Indian Hindu temples are some of the main features there.
Dambulla:
Another historical site is the Cave temples of Dambulla located at the centre of the island, 116km from Colombo.
Sigiriya, an inspiring archaeological site is a leading tourist attraction. Located north of Dambulla, 116km from Colombo, the site consists of a sheer rock that rises over 200m with the ruins of a palace on the top and a vast pleasure gardens that include a series of symmetric pools, channels and fountains that still spurt water after 1,500 years.
Kandy:
The Royal City of Kandy, 116km from Colombo, is the last independent kingdom of Sri Lanka. It is home to the sacred relic of the tooth of the Buddha, a visit to the Dalada Maligawa or Temple of the Tooth and the Kandy Esala Perahera is an experience no tourist should miss. Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya, 6km south of the city is also a best place in Sri Lanka.
Dutch Fort at Galle:
The 17th c. Dutch Fort at Galle, close to the island’s southernmost point, 173km from Colombo, is another important site.
Sinharaja Forest Reserve:
Finally, there is the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, an ecological treasure trove ,situated 120km south-east of Colombo, is the last extensive stretch of virgin rainforest on the island, where over 130 bird species are found including 34 of 36 species endemic to Sri Lanka.
