Joanna James
The drive from Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa is right through the heart of the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka. Many fascinating historical locations abound on this trail as well as some of the best natural parks on the island.
Mihintale is just 25 minutes away from Anuradhapura and is found en route to Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. This ancient rock mountain and temple site is one of the most hallowed locations on the island. It is considered to be the place where Buddhism was first introduced to the island's ruling king in 236 BCE by Arahat Mahinda, son of Emperor Asoka. The peak is surrounded by thick jungles, while the temple grounds have various ruins of ancient monasteries to explore.
This was an ancient forest and Buddhist monastery where a community of monks lived and meditated. According to traditional village folklore, the mountain is the abode of the Ritigala demon. Over 70 caves can be found all across the forest, which were used by monks for their meditation and as their living quarters. It is a strict nature reserve that has endemic wildlife, plant life and ancient ruins. It is buried in a thick forest, 43 km away from Anuradhapura.
A massive rock monolith that once used to hold the palace of usurper King Kashyapa, Sigiriya is one of the most famous historical sites in Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This edifice is one-of-a-kind, and it is a cultural legacy that ranks Sri Lanka on the list of must-visit countries in the world. You can find more information on this breathtaking attraction via blogs such as Truly Sri Lanka!
A 20-minute drive away from Sigiriya is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dambulla Rock Cave Temple. It is the largest and best-preserved cave temple in Sri Lanka. The whole temple complex is built upon a rock over 160 metres in height and towers over surrounding thick forests. There are over 80 discovered caves within the temple grounds; however, five, in particular, are the most visited. Inside these caves, you will find frescoes and statues of the Buddha, and stories detailing his past lives and those of his disciples. The cave art and sculptures are impressive and those are fine examples of ancient art in Sri Lanka.
Around 50 minutes away from Anuradhapura is the Wilpattu National Park, famous for its natural watering holes, called 'villus'. They are made up of rainwater and provide the park animals with a natural habitat for feeding, bathing, and nesting. Some of its famous occupants include the Sri Lankan elephant, leopard, sloth bear, wild cats, water buffalo, endemic monkeys and a variety of tropical birds.
Yapahuwa became the third kingdom of Sri Lanka when the seat of governance transferred from Polonnaruwa due to invasions from Dravidians of South India. The sacred tooth relic was brought to Yapahuwa, as it was a time-held tradition that the rightful ruler of the land should possess the tooth relic to become the legitimate monarch. Once a magnificent rock fortress, many of its structures were destroyed due to multiple invasions from South India and the Portuguese. Visitors, however, can climb the rock and its massive monumental stone staircase. There is also plenty to see and do, like exploring the fortification ruins, rock carvings, ancient stupas, monastery ruins and an old temple depicting Kandyan art.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
