Places to See and Stay: The Cultural Triangle - Sri Lanka

Add to Travel PlannerSigiriya Rock Fortress, Sri Lanka

Once known as the ‘Land of Kings’, the Cultural Triangle is an extraordinary region. North from Kandy the area includes the ancient capitals of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, the cave temples at Dambulla and the mighty rock fortress of Sigiriya. Often overlooked amidst the cultural treasures is the area’s natural wealth, with wild elephant in abundance. For any visitor with an interest in history or Buddhism (the island’s major religion) it is well worth basing yourself here for at least three nights to explore the area. There are plenty of good hotels and all have swimming pools, at their cooling best after a day’s exploring.

 

In this region

Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
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Anuradhapura

Although Anuradhapura dates from the 4th century BC, Sri Lanka’s first Buddhist capital is not merely an ancient relic and remains a devout holy city centred round the...

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Dambulla Cave Temple
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Dambulla

The earliest cave temples at Dambulla are thought to date back to the first century BC but successive kings added to them over the years to form the present complex of...

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Giritale

A small rural village set on the banks of the Giritale Reservoir that was built in the 7th century. Although the village itself has not much to offer the discerning...

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Wild Indian elephant
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Minneriya Sanctuary

Minneriya is a wonderful place to see elephants in the wild. Set around a 3rd century reservoir, Minneriya is a haven for wild elephants and a jeep safari here will bring...

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Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
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Polonnaruwa

The second Buddhist capital after Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa is more accessible and better preserved than its predecessor. The numerous sites are grouped in clusters...

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Wall frescos, Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
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Sigiriya

Sri Lanka’s most recognisable landmark, Sigiriya Rock looms 200 metres above the plains, an ideal position for a fortress. However, when the usurper King Kasyapa built...

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