EXPLORE THE LOCAL CULTURE
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Discover the rich culture of Sri Lanka with Lanka Leisure Travels as you journey to historical destinations that showcase the gems of the island’s glorious past. On your adventures you will visit famed archaeological sites, magnificent monuments and stunning landmarks that offer an insight into what life was like back in the days of the ancient kings.
ANURADHAPURA
Anuradhapura is a city that is located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. Its prominence reached the zenith back in the fourth century BC when the great King Pandukabhaya made this his capital. The glorious spaces of Anuradhapura were lavishly adorned with the grandiosity of tall buildings, statues and dome shaped shrines.
Most of these impressive constructions stand to this day, having braved the winds of many a century. They proclaim to one generation after the next the remarkable finesse that marked the handiwork of the country’s craftsmen. In the city of Anuradhapura, things to do are many; you can visit places like Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya, Ruwanweliseya, Isurumuniya and Abhayagiri Vihara during a tour.
Agriculture was the chief occupation in Sri Lanka in the past just like it is now for many in rural areas. The tanks that the kings built to help the farmers thrive in the harsh conditions of the dry zone can still be seen today. Together the kings of Anuradhapura were able to create one of the most complex systems of irrigation of the world at its time.
One of the most remarkable events that occurred during the Anuradhapura Kingdom was the introduction of Buddhism to the island. According to the epic poem Mahavamsa, Thera Mahinda, the son of the Emperor Ashoka of India, visited Sri Lanka on the full moon day the month of June; here he met King Devanampiyatissa who reigned in the island at that time. This fateful encounter resulted in the king and subsequently the country, embracing the peaceful teachings of Lord Buddha.
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POLONNARUWA
Polonnaruwa was declared the capital of the island when the Kingdom of Anuradhapura fell. King Vijayabahu I chose this city as his capital after defeating the Chola invaders. Anuradhapura flourished under the reign of several influential kings and the country too steadily continued to grow and stabilise.
The Golden Age of Polonnaruwa dawned when King Parakramabahu I, ascended the throne. His vision, to use every single drop of water that fell from the skies, resulted in the creation of remarkable irrigation systems that baffle people even today. Paddy cultivation was a challenge in the dry zone, but the visionary king certainly made the impossible possible. The vast ‘Parakrama Samudra’ (Sea of Parakrama) was one of the greatest feats achieved during this time and the reservoir still glistens like a sea of hope in the heart of Polonnaruwa.
Many architectural marvels were also constructed during the era of Polonnaruwa. Things to do here certainly should include exploratory tours to discover the wonderful appeal of these majestic attractions. The Ancient City of Polonnaruwa is, after all, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Polonnaruwa Vatadage, Gal Vihara, Nissanka Latha Mandapaya, Rankoth Vehera, and Hatadage are some of the most prominent sites that can be explored on foot or by cycle.
Paying a visit to the Polonnaruwa Museum too will give one, a fascinating insight into the past of this one time capital, and all the legacies, its great kings left behind. Thriving among the old ruins are also large families of toque macaques (monkeys), who interest visitors just as much as the monuments.
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SIGIRIYA
The majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress in Sri Lanka which still baffles modern day architects was the brainchild of the great King Kashyapa who reigned between 477 and 495 AD. The magnificent rock fortress is truly a symbol of Sri Lankan pride and every aspect of this iconic attraction inspires awe.
The site plan of Sigiriya is considered to be remarkably imaginative. There is a complex arrangement of parks and reservoirs here that embrace the concepts of symmetry and asymmetry beautifully. There are water gardens, boulder gardens and terraced gardens that would have looked mesmerising during the kingdom’s heyday. Some of the hydraulic systems of the complex work even today!
Rock frescoes referred to as the ‘Sigiriya damsels’ occupy a small sheltered space in the fortress and truly possess exquisite beauty. Some say they were the ladies of the king while others say they are celestial nymphs. Every single visitor leaves this place amazed by the grand beauty of these frescoes who silently proclaim to all the remarkable talent of the unnamed artist who painted them.
On your ascent to the top of the rock, you will also come across what is known as the Mirror Wall which features ancient graffiti and inscriptions. The majestic Lion’s Paws entrance, hewn solely from rock, leads the way to the summit where one can imagine what it must have been like when its king ruled amidst much grandeur and breath taking land and lake vistas.
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DAMBULLA
Dambulla is a bustling, economic hub whose territories house a magnificent tourist attraction which also happens to be one of the most prominent sites of worship amongst Buddhists in Sri Lanka. The Dambulla Rock Temple¸ which is also known as the Dambulla Cave Temple and Golden Temple of Dambulla is certainly a place that well deserves a visit.
The old temple complex is known to be the largest cave temple complex on the island. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has been well preserved and gives modern-day travellers an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the country’s golden past.
The temple is believed to have a history that dates back to the first century BC. Throughout the ages, many kings did their share to enhance the significance and appeal of the temple complex. There are five caves here that house many beautiful statues of Buddha, ancient Sri Lankan kings as well as other gods and goddesses. Gorgeous murals also adorn the inner walls of the caves, depicting stories of the life of Buddha; this includes over 1,500 paintings that cover the ceiling of one of the caves here.
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KANDY
Kandy is one of the most beautiful cities in Sri Lanka. There are sites of religious appeal to see as well as plenty of cultural events to observe; this makes it a popular city to visit for both locals and international travellers in search of cooler climes as well.
The last king of ancient Sri Lanka ruled the island from this magnificent city before the whole country was brought under the rule of the British during the colonial era. One certainly gets the feeling, however, that Kandy has managed to retain its aura of grandeur. Even today you will detect a feeling of royalty and while the city is bustling with life there are areas where time seems to stand still here, harking back to days of old.
Among the many things to see in Kandy, the sacred Sri Dalada Maligwa, which is also known as the Temple of the Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, is prominent and is one of the most popular sites of worship among Buddhists in the island. The annual procession of the temple referred to as the ‘Esala Perahera’ is a grand event that displays so colourfully the fascinating culture and traditions of Sri Lanka.
The Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, Gadaladeniya Viharaya, Lankatilaka Viharaya, Kandy Garrison Cemetery, Kandy Lake and Udawattakele Forest Reserve are a few of the popular tourist attractions in and around the city worth a visit.
GALLE
Full of old world charm, the city of Galle is one of the most popular destinations in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. The azure blue ocean that borders the city and adds a remarkable allure to the colonial structures.
Among the many leading Galle attractions, the Dutch or Galle Fort certainly is prominent. Built by the Portuguese back in the year 1588 this iconic fort stands tall and proud to this very day. The Galle Fort was extensively fortified by the Dutch after they invaded the country. The British also did their share to make the fort stronger when the island’s reign was taken over by them. Today, the fort area is occupied by diverse people who lend much colour and life amidst age-old buildings and winding cobbled streets that add to its beauty.
You can visit the many quaint shops that line the streets to buy exquisite gifts that are tinged with the charm of the island. There is something for everyone here in Galle! Whether you are looking for expensive jewellery or unique handcrafted mementos, you certainly will be able to find a delightful array of products at the many stores here.
On your exploration, you can visit the Galle Lighthouse, National Museum of Galle, Maritime Archaeology Museum, Historical Mansion Museum, Dutch Reformed Church and All Saint’s Church. Of course, if you want to just laze on the shore you can always head to nearby Unawatuna Beach or Jungle Beach too.