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Kandy
Kandy is home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that serves as one of the most important cultural and religious centres in Sri Lanka. The city’s location in the central highlands creates a unique blend of cultural landscape and natural surroundings. Kandy Lake and the traditional streets around the temple preserve architectural styles from the Kandyan Kingdom. The area also hosts annual cultural festivals that follow long standing traditions.
Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in South Asia and features extensive archaeological remains from early Sri Lankan civilisation. The city contains large stupas, monastic complexes, and reservoirs that highlight advanced engineering skills. The sacred Sri Maha Bodhi, grown from a branch of the original Bodhi tree in India, is a central religious site. Its UNESCO protected zone covers several square kilometres of historical significance.
Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa served as the island’s second major ancient capital and displays a well preserved layout of royal palaces, temples, and irrigation structures. The Gal Vihara rock sculptures are considered key examples of classical Sinhalese stone carving. The ancient tank system, including Parakrama Samudra, demonstrates highly sophisticated water management practices. UNESCO recognises the site for its integrated urban planning and architectural heritage.
Dambulla
Dambulla is known for its cave temple complex, which contains murals and statues spanning centuries of Buddhist artistic development. The five main cave shrines display continuous use and preservation, making them one of the best maintained cave temple networks in Sri Lanka. The hilltop location provides a strategic view of the surrounding plains, contributing to its historical importance. It remains one of the longest functioning religious sites in the region.
Sigiriya
Sigiriya is a fifth century rock fortress built by King Kashyapa, recognised for its advanced hydraulic engineering and unique frescoes. The symmetrical water gardens at the base reflect early landscape design techniques. The rock face features the famous frescoes and the Mirror Wall, which contains ancient graffiti. The summit holds the remains of a palace that showcase high level engineering for the period.