Joanna James
Sri Lanka has a history spanning over 2600 years and seven kingdoms. Therefore, almost in every direction, you can encounter forgotten ancient ruins, while many still remain unearthed. From Anuradhapura to Yapahuwa, here are some of the ancient cities of Sri Lanka you should be exploring.
The city traces its origins to the 5th century BCE and is among the most continuously inhabited ancient cities in the world! It is also the birthplace of the Sinhalese Buddhist Civilization. The Sacred City is the site of the ancient city, and here you will encounter massive stupas, irrigation tanks, monasteries, ponds, libraries, hospitals and Buddhist art and architecture. One of the most venerated sites is the Ruwanweli Maha Seya and Sri Maha Bodhi Tree. The former is a mammoth stupa in pristine white, enshrining the largest number of relics of the Lord Buddha, latter is the sapling of the Bodhi Tree (ficus religiosa) where the historical Buddha attained Enlightenment.
The second kingdom of Sri Lanka, although smaller, boasts many impressive feats. You will also encounter massive man-made irrigation tanks, constructed during the peak of Sri Lanka's agricultural self-sufficiency. Some of the main highlights include the Gal Viharaya, Royal Palace, King's audience hall, Sacred Quadrangle, rankot viharaya (stupa), Lankatilaka Buddha Statue, ancient rock pools, monasteries and so much more.
The Yapahuwa rock fortress is a 300-foot stone fortification dating to the 13th century (1273-1284 CE) This magnificent rock citadel was built in part to hold and protect the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha. Vestiges of ancient battlements are visible, while the grand 100-stepped stone stairway remains the main attraction. At its summit, there are the remnants of a stupa, a Bodhi tree and a rock cave inhabited by Buddhist monks. One cave has inscriptions in the ancient Brahmi script, while the fortification, moats and ramparts are also visible.
One of the best things to do in Sri Lanka is to visit Sigiriya! This famous rock fortress became the ancient capital of Sri Lanka under the rogue king Kashyapa. After killing the rightful king, who was also his father, Kashyapa moved the capital from Anuradhapura to Sigiriya. He built a complete fortress on top of a prehistoric monolith, although according to local legend, the actual palace is inside the rock. On its summit, you will encounter palace ruins, a pool that never dries out, a stone throne and many remnants of fortifications. The palace grounds are equally amazing, with beautiful water gardens, fountains, ponds and caves once used by meditating bhikkhus. If looking for accommodation you can find many hotels in Sigiriya - the Amaya Resorts & Spas are among the top hoteliers to look out for.
The third historical capital of ancient Sri Lanka is situated in the North Western Province along the Kurunegala–Negombo road and lies around 31 km from Kurunegala. The site became prominent under King Vijayabahu III. Once the Polonnaruwa kingdom fell apart due to invasions, the king moved the capital to Dambadeniya during the mid-13th century. Most of the ancient remains of the Kingdom lie buried under a massive fortified rock. However, you can climb up the rock and see the remnants of the palace. Other attractions include The Bogoda Wooden Bridge and Wijayasundaramaya, the site where the scared tooth relic was placed after the fall of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom.
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.
