Cultural Triangle in Sri Lanka

A history that is strewn with ancient legend, age old statues of undefined age dot the north central plains of Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is synonymous with Buddhism and the north central plains are dotted with many Buddhist temples, sculptures, stupas and many ancient monasteries, some are over two thousand years old. An ancient civilization thrived, first in the ancient capital of Anuradhapura for over a thousand years then due to invasions from South India capital was moved to Polonnaruwa, under the guidance and influence of Buddhism. Many monolithic rock formations that dot the north central plains have been transformed into places of worship by the expert ancient sculptors, inspired by Buddhist way of life.

Gone are the days of glory, today most of these monoliths stand silent and deserted emitting the glory of times of yore, today life around them moves at a slow pace through the heat of the day and the air is still except for sound of insects and occasional sound of a bird or a monkey. Ideal time to visit these monuments are in the morning or evening when the sun dawns upon them to lighting up these ancient wonders, a word of caution while photographing Buddhist temples and status, are never to pose with them or turn your back to them.

Recommended Cultural Tour Locations

Kalpitiya (Wilpattu)

1 Night

Are you a wild life lover then this is the best destination for you watch the animals in there natural habitat go on a safari enjoy the ultimate natural experience.

Sigiriya

2 Nights

Sigiriya was built by the fifth-century king Kashyapa I, who ruled the native Sinhalese dynasty, the Moriya. The imposing fortress was the capital of the Sinhalese kingdom until Kashyapa was defeated in A.D. 495.

Kitulgala

1 Night

Kitulgala is most famed for being the hub of exciting water sport activities; from white water rafting to abseiling and exploring waterfalls. Kitulgala is located approximately 83km from the Colombo International Airport and makes for a great stopover as you head out to explore the mountainous regions of Sri Lanka.

Bundala

1 Night

The Bundala Biosphere Reserve is located on the southeast coast of Sri Lanka. The core area, which is also a national park, includes four brackish water lagoons. The lagoons are fringed by narrow strips of marshland and are surrounded by slightly undulating terrain covered predominantly with lowland dry scrub forests.

Yala

1 Night

Yala is in the lowest peneplain of Sri Lanka, which extends from Trincomalee to Hambantota. Topographically the area is a flat and mildly undulating plain that runs to the coast with elevation is 30 metres (98 ft) close to the coast while rising in the interior to 100–125 metres (330–410 ft).

Colombo

1 Night

Colombo is the capital city of Sri Lanka, and the country's largest city in terms of population. Located on the west coast, it is a beautiful city surrounded by white sand beaches and an impressive harbourfront. Colombo is characterised by a series of canals, with the picturesque 160-acre Beira Lake at its centre.