Tour the island’s first ancient capital, Anuradhapura which holds immense historical and cultural value. The ruins of its once splendid townships, temple and palaces have been well preserved to afford a glimpse into fascinating tales untold.
The country’s second most ancient kingdom, Polonnaruwa is renowned for its irrigation systems that are considered to be far superior to those of today. The island’s Eastern kingdom has served as its spiritual and agricultural capital, traces of which never cease to amaze.
Feast your eyes on some of the most awe-inspiring water garden displays and ancient murals at Sigiriya, which is regarded as the eighth wonder of the world by some. With the remains of a Sky Palace at its flat summit, the world famous Sigiriya Frescoes, the Lion Gate and other fascinating features, it is considered to be an architectural marvel, providing an insight to its builders’ ingenuity.
The very epitome of the island’s colonial influence, Galle is a coastal city and yet another heritage site blending exotic local elements with a legacy left behind by the Dutch. Distinguished by its fortifications set against the breathtaking backdrop of the azure Indian Ocean, the city exudes a unique sense of old world charm.
A testament to the island’s rich religious heritage, the royal city of Kandy is the home of The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
Graced by the presence of this exquisitely designed temple and palace complex, Kandy is yet another former royal capital and is the mainstay of local traditions and culture.
Nestled in the island’s south-west region, Sinharaja Forest Reserve is famed for being immensely rich in biodiversity.
Home to a majority of the country’s endemic species of mammals, butterflies and birds, this natural treasure has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka, Dambulla Cave Temple consists of five sanctuaries, making it the island’s best-preserved and largest cave-temple complex.
Besides its great historical significance, its intricate Buddhist mural paintings as well over 150 statues never cease to amaze the visitors.