Cultural Triangle and the Ancient Cities

Popularly referred to as Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, the ruins of the ancient kingdoms of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Dambulla, with their sprawling monasteries, colossal stupas, magnificent Buddha statues, and extensive royal palaces, are a treasure trove of ancient Buddhist art and architecture.

Located among the dry zone plains in north-central Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura was the first capital of ancient Sri Lanka and is noted for its massive Buddhist stupas and the presence of an old tree said to be a sapling of the sacred Bodhi tree under which Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment to become the Buddha.

To the east of Anuradhapura lie the monumental ruins of Sri Lanka’s second ancient capital city, Polonnaruwa – the creations of the conquering Cholas of southern India and Sri Lanka’s greatest rulers. One of the best ways to enjoy this site is on a gentle cycling tour. At the heart of the Cultural Triangle, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sigiriya is an iconic rock citadel that stands high above the surrounding jungle and is famed for its elegant Sigiriya frescoes, believed to have been painted in the 5th century AD.

To the south of Sigiriya, Dambulla is home to Sri Lanka’s extensive cave temple complex, filled with hundreds of images of Buddha. In addition to exploring the ancient cities, Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle is an excellent place to enjoy village walks, relaxed bike rides, and wildlife spotting – Minneriya National Park is noted for its herds of elephants. At the same time, sightings within the striking Wilpattu National Park include leopards and sloth bears.