Venture into North Central Sri Lanka, where ancient ruins, sacred temples, and rich history blend seamlessly with stunning landscapes. From the majestic Sigiriya rock fortress to the serene temples of Anuradhapura, immerse yourself in a journey through time in this captivating region.
Anuradhapura Sacred City – Anuradhapura is a historic city in Sri Lanka and one of the island’s ancient capitals. It holds immense significance as a center of Buddhism and Sri Lankan civilization. Anuradhapura was established around the 4th century BCE and served as the capital for over a millennium, until it was abandoned in the 11th century CE following invasions from South India. The city is renowned for its well-preserved archaeological sites, ancient stupas, monasteries, and reservoirs, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Among the most notable attractions in Anuradhapura are: Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, Ruwanmali Maha Seya, Jethawanaramaya, Isurumuniya, Thuparamaya & etc
Exploring Anuradhapura offers visitors a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and religious heritage, with its ancient monuments providing insights into the country’s glorious past as a center of Buddhist civilization.
Polonnaruwa Sacred City – Polonnaruwa is another ancient city in Sri Lanka, located in the North Central Province. It served as the second capital of the Sinhalese kingdom after the destruction of Anuradhapura around the 11th century CE. Polonnaruwa flourished as a vibrant urban center under the rule of King Parakramabahu I and subsequent monarchs.
The city is renowned for its well-preserved archaeological sites, including impressive ruins of palaces, temples, monasteries, and massive tanks (reservoirs) that were part of an advanced irrigation system. Polonnaruwa was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 for its cultural significance.
Key attractions in the Polonnaruwa Sacred City include: Royal Palace of King Prakramabahu 1, Gal Viharaya, Polonnaruwa Watadageya & etc.
Exploring the Polonnaruwa Sacred City offers visitors a fascinating journey through Sri Lanka’s rich history and cultural heritage, with its ancient ruins providing a glimpse into the grandeur of the island’s medieval past.
Wilpattu National Park – Wilpattu National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s oldest and largest national parks, located in the Northwest coast lowland dry zone of the island. Covering an area of approximately 1,317 square kilometers, it is renowned for its diverse wildlife and pristine wilderness, including dense forests, scrublands, grasslands, and freshwater lakes known as “villus.”
The park is named after the “Willus” or natural lakes that dot its landscape, providing essential watering holes for the park’s inhabitants during the dry season. Wilpattu is characterized by its unique ecosystem, which supports a wide variety of flora and fauna, including Sri Lankan elephants, leopards, sloth bears, water buffaloes, spotted deer, and numerous bird species.
Visiting Wilpattu National Park offers a unique opportunity to experience the wonders of Sri Lanka’s wilderness and observe its diverse wildlife in their natural habitat. As a protected area, the park plays a crucial role in conservation efforts, preserving its rich biodiversity for future generations to enjoy.
