Experiences
Cultural Triangle
Cultural Triangle Sri Lanka
The Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka is like a treasure trove, packed with ancient cities, Buddhist temples, and many ruins. It includes places like Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kandy and lesser-known spots like Yapahuwa and Ritigala.
This Cultural Triangle is special for many reasons. For instance, it’s believed to be where the Sinhalese civilisation started – we’re talking about thousands of years of history. It’s also a place where Buddhism is deeply ingrained, with many temples and sacred sites. Plus, there’s also the natural beauty of this area – from thick, lush jungles to incredible rock formations and wildlife.
So, if you want to immerse yourself in the country’s rich history, culture and spiritual traditions, the Cultural Triangle is an absolute must-visit.
Places to Visit in the Cultural Triangle
Anuradhapura
Believed to have been founded way back in 380 BC, Anuradhapura was the first capital of Sri Lanka. It is also thought to be one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. This city also holds special significance when it comes to Buddhism. In fact, it’s considered to be one of the most sacred spots in Sri Lanka, as it is home to a wide range of important religious sites like the famous ‘Atamasthana’ (the Eight Great Places of Veneration). Beyond that, Anuradhapura is also a testament to the irrigation and architectural expertise of the ancient Sinhalese civilisations. With so many places to visit and see, it can feel a little overwhelming. So, here are some of the must-visit places in Anuradhapura:
Sri Maha Bodhi
The sacred Bodhi is the sapling of the same tree Lord Buddha attained enlightenment in Buddha Gaya, India.
Ruwanwelisaya
A stupa built by King Dutugemunu in the 1st century BC, which serves as part of the Solosmasthana and the Atamasthana (the 16 and 8 sacred places the Lord Buddha visited when he arrived in Sri Lanka).
Jetavanaramaya
A massive stupa that was once considered to be the largest in the country and the world. It was also the foremost place of worship for Mahayana Buddhists.
Tissa Weva
A lake constructed by King Devanampiyatissa in the 3rd Century BC to increase the water supply to the city and the Royal Gardens of Anuradhapura. It showcases the ingenuity of ancient engineering practices and their practical approach.
And that’s just scratching the surface. There are countless other ruins, temples and monuments to explore. This city is a living, breathing testament to the soul of Sri Lanka and will transport you back in time, leaving you in awe.
Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa was the second major kingdom in Sri Lanka after the fall of the Kingdom of Anuradhapura. Established as the capital in 1056 AD, it served as the administrative centre for several years until it fell in the 14th century due to Chola invasions from India. Similar to Anuradhapura, there’s a lot to see and do in this ancient city, from ancient temples and engineering marvels to religious artefacts. From the city walls to the temples, Polonnaruwa was designed to thrive with everything carefully planned out and organised. Must-visit spots in Polonnaruwa include:
Gal Viharaya
Translated as the Rock Temple, Gal Viharaya is home to three statues of great importance, depicting the Lord Buddha in three unique positions. These intricately carved statues are a testament to the craftsmanship of the time.
Parakrama Samudraya
Built in the 12th century by King Parakramabahu, this lake was a solution to supply water for the many paddy cultivations in the kingdom.
Lankathilaka Image House
This monument displaying elaborate and intricate craftsmanship is a complex with walls lined with carvings and sculptures of religious and mythical figures.
Dambulla
At the heart of the cultural triangle is Dambulla – a treasure trove of history with its iconic cave temples. In close proximity to other must-visit attractions like Sigiriya, Dambulla is the perfect base for explorers who want to dive into the rich culture and history of the island. Here are the must-visit destinations in Dambulla:
Dambulla Cave Temples
Consisting of five caverns, the Dambulla Cave Temples are beautifully decorated and adorned with murals covering almost every inch and many statues of Buddha and his disciples. This cave monastery is a popular pilgrimage site and one of the best-preserved cave temple complexes in the country.
Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs
Located in close proximity to the Dambulla Cave Temple, this burial site consists of 42 clusters of megalithic tombs. Dating back over 3,000 years, this burial site is believed to be the place where many of the prehistoric inhabitants would bury their dead.
Popham’s Arboretum
Built in 1963, this tranquil sanctuary spanning 34.5 acres is Sri Lanka’s only dry-zone arboretum boasting a wide range of flora and fauna. It offers a variety of excursions and activities like day and night safaris, nature walks and bird-watching excursions for visitors.
From the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura, whispering tales of a glorious past, the meticulously planned city of Polonnaruwa, and the rich cultural and historical heritage of Dambulla, Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle offers an unforgettable journey through time and tradition.