The cultural triangle of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is often mistaken as a simply a beach destination since it's been referred to as an island. but at its heart, you'll find a collection of architectural and cultural wonders well worth a closer look.
The Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka is significant as it consists of all the historical royal cities and Buddhist temples that once were the cynosure of the Sinhalese civilization. The islands three historic capitals mark the points of the triangle – i.e the hill capital of Kandy, the first Sinhalese capital of Anuradhapura and the medieval capital of Polonnaruwa. There are some magnificent locations that you must include in your itinerary which are given below.
Cities of the cultural triangle Sri Lanka
Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura was founded as the first ancient capital of the country in 380 BC. It has the signatories in the form of architecture and irrigation, through which one can visualize the rich history of this country. It is one of the foremost sacred cities of Buddhism in the world, which makes it an important UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa was named capital after Anuradhapura and signifies a major medieval war victory. The lakes (known as "wewa") / the irrigation system that you would witness here are amazing. The ancient city is one of the planned sites in the country and boasts of many archaeological relics and monuments.
Sigiriya
Famed as the Lion Rock, Sigiriya is located in the Matale District. This scenic rock was chosen by King Kasyapa as his chateau in 447 CE to shield himself from invasions, which makes it unique. Sigiriya which is a UNESCO world heritage site is considered to be one of the best-preserved examples for ancient urban planning.
Dambulla
Dambulla is not short of devotees during any part of the year and is famous for its unique cave temples. The cave temple consists of some exquisite paintings and statues that depict Lord Buddha and his teachings and is spread over an area of 5 caves. These cave areas cover an area of approximately 2100 square meters.
Kandy
Surrounded by the Central Highlands, Kandy lies within a plateau and is the religious and administrative capital of the Central Province of Sri Lanka. Kandy is known well globally as the home of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (the Dalada Maligawa) which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Mihintale
This is a mountain peak near Anuradhapura which is also the site where the presence of Buddhism was inaugurated in Sri Lanka. The relics which you would see in Mihintale give you an idea of what a historical monastery was. The foot of Mount Mihintale consists of the ruins of a medical bath and stone inscriptions of an ancient hospital. The ruin of a huge monastery lies closely which signifies the historic cultural values of this beautiful country.
Aukana
Situated 50km southwest of Anuradhapura, the village of Aukana is famous for its 12-meter-tall rock-cut statue of Buddha. This statue that dates back to the 8th century is immaculately preserved, and the carvings on it are considered to be precise and defined.
Yapahuwa
Yapahuwa was one of the short-lived but prosperous capital of Sri Lanka. Largely abandoned after South Indians captured the city. There is a steep ornamental and majestic staircase which leads to a cave temple with 13th-century frescoes. This was where once the sacred tooth relic was held.
Lankathilaka
The Lankathilaka Viharaya is one of the popular tourist destinations in Kandy which was constructed in the 14 th century AD. It is a building made out of clay brick, which at one time was a five-storied building which is truly amazing and is an architectural wonder.
Gadaladeniya
Gadaladeniya Rajamaha Viharaya which is beautiful ancient monastery built on a magnificent. rock at Diggala in the district of Kandy. According to an inscription there this temple was built by in the year 1344. A south Indian called Ganesvarachari has been the chief architect of this temple which signifies neighboring influence.
Best time to visit the cultural triangle Sri Lanka
The Cultural Triangle Sri Lanka can be visited any time during the year as Sri Lanka is a tropical country. However, the noon can be a bit hot and at times there can be a sporadic shower that might come in your way. The best time but is to start early avoiding the worst of the heat and the worst of the crowds. Many of the sites are open until 6pm-7pm each day. You can stay at the final site of your touring day for sunset, after having an extended lunch.
Recommended hotels
There is a number of quality hotels that are spread across the Cultural Triangle Sri Lanka. Options range from affordable 3-star accommodation to luxurious 5-star properties and a few boutique options that can be thrown into the mix. Give below are some of the favorite properties in the area that add a little something special to your stay.
Forest Rock Garden – Anuradhapura
The forest rock is set beautifully lush landscaped gardens and is a prominently referred to the landmark. It boasts of a history of over 100 years and welcomes guests with a selection of 22 elegant and spacious rooms featuring high ceilings, coupled with modern amenities including TVs and air-conditioning.
Dambulla - Heritance Kandalama
The Kandalama is a state of the art five-star property located o the forested slopes, ensconced by nature. Guests can look out to Sigiriya rock fortress from the hotel's infinity pool while having a breather, or head out to the relaxing spa where ancient Asian methods are employed.
Polonnaruwa - The Deer Park Hotel
The Deer Park Hotel is located prominently and scenically in Polonnaruwa. The hotel is the calm and collected base location for you to explore all that Polonnaruwa has to offer. You can also head out to Sigiriya / Dambulla or take an adventurous safari which is within close proximity.
Sigiriya - Jetwing Vil Uyana
Vil Uyana in Sinhalese translates to “garden of lakes” – a tribute most fitting to its agrarian ancestors. These lands which were symbols of fertility a prosperousness now share a legacy of true Sri Lankan hospitality with the world, in the form of the symbolic Sigiriya hotel.
Kandy - Earl's Regency
Located just 5 km away from the city, Earl's Regency is one of finest properties in Sri Lanka. The breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and countryside landscapes will make you feel your miles away from any human dwelling.
Feeling inspired?
From the golden beaches that encircle the island to the multitude of flourishing National Parks, ancient ruins and colorful temples scattered throughout its jungle interior – Sri Lanka seemingly has it all.
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