Ancient cities in Sri Lanka

Ancient Cities

of Sri Lanka

Explore Sri Lanka’s sacred ancient capitals, UNESCO heritage sites, Buddhist monuments and royal kingdoms.

Sri Lanka Ancient City Guide

Explore each ancient city with history, places to visit, highlights, travel details and inquiry options.

Anuradhapura

Sri Lanka’s first ancient capital and a sacred city of history.

Anuradhapura is a major city located in the north central plain of Sri Lanka. It was Sri Lanka’s first capital and became one of the most important historical and religious cities of the island.

Best for Sacred temples, Buddhist history, ancient stupas and cultural photography
Recommended stay 1 - 2 Nights
Places to visit
Abhayagiri DagabaRuwanveliseya DagobaThe Samadhi BuddhaSri Maha BodhiMihintaleAukana Buddha

Visit Sri Maha Bodhi, one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka.

Explore massive ancient stupas and Buddhist monuments.

Discover Anuradhapura’s royal and religious history.

Combine the visit with Mihintale and Aukana Buddha.

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Polonnaruwa

Sri Lanka’s medieval capital with ancient temples and cultural ruins.

Polonnaruwa was Sri Lanka’s medieval capital during the 11th and 12th centuries. The city is known for its ancient shrines, parks, gardens, Buddhist art and architecture.

Best for Ancient ruins, Buddhist art, cycling routes and heritage photography
Recommended stay 1 Night
Places to visit
Gal VihareParakrama SamudhayaRoyal Palace RuinsVatadageLankatilaka Image HouseRankoth Vehera

Explore Gal Vihare and its impressive Buddha statues.

Visit ancient ruins from Sri Lanka’s medieval kingdom.

Enjoy a relaxed heritage route by vehicle or bicycle.

Combine Polonnaruwa with Sigiriya and Minneriya National Park.

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Sigiriya

UNESCO World Heritage Site and Sri Lanka’s famous rock fortress.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress was built by King Kasyapa in the 5th century A.D. It was a royal citadel with water gardens, frescoes, ancient architecture and a palace on the summit of the rock.

Best for UNESCO heritage, climbing, ancient gardens, views and photography
Recommended stay 1 - 2 Nights
Places to visit
Sigiriya Rock FortressNalanda GedigeGolden TemplePidurangala RockDambulla Cave TempleMinneriya National Park

Climb the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

See ancient water gardens, frescoes and royal ruins.

Enjoy panoramic views from the summit.

Combine Sigiriya with Dambulla, Polonnaruwa and Minneriya.

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