Cultural Triangle
Situated in the North Central Province, the Cultural Triangle uncovers the island’s ancient cultural heritage dating back to the 3rd century BC. It is in this region that the country’s forefathers…the great kings of Sri Lanka, gave rise to the island’s civilization and nurtured a sophisticated vision of development. They constructed vast reservoirs that harvested rain water to irrigate paddy fields; built ancient cities and Buddhist monasteries; gigantic stupas that enshrines sacred relics; rock sculptures, cave temples adorned with beautiful murals, and rock fortresses. These Archeological sites provide an insight into Sri Lanka’s intriguing history and are all well preserved as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The North Central region has extensive areas of untouched wilderness which are protected National Parks providing thriving habitats for many species of animals including large herds of elephants.
Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura was Sri Lanka’s first capital dating back to the 3rd century BC and was ruled by many kings for a period of about 1,500 years. This glorious ancient city was nurtured as a monastic city and centered around the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, which is a sapling of the original Bo tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment in Buddha Gaya in India. This sacred Bo sapling was brought to Sri Lanka in 3rd century B.C. and is venerated by Buddhist from across the island. Ruins of monasteries, hospitals, palaces, and gigantic stupas remain and provides a glimpse into this glorious ancient city.
Polonnaruwa
The island’s capital shifted to Polonnaruwa towards the 11th century A.D. The architect behind this ancient kingdom was King Parakramabahu who developed this region edged by the vast Parakrama Samudraya reservoir for rain water harvesting and irrigation of paddy fields in the area. The irrigation systems and the engineering behind this vast reservoir which is still in use, continues to baffle today’s experts. The ancient Polonnaruwa kingdom is well laid out and consists of the ruins of the royal palace which is believed to have bee seven stories high; royal baths, audience halls, image houses, stupas, and much more. The Gal Viharaya with three colossal rock sculptures of Lord Buddha carved out of a single granite slab, is breathtaking. Take time to immerse in the tranquility and serenity of the sacred Gal Viharaya. Polonnaruwa’s Archeological Museum presents an excellent insight into this ancient kingdom and its sophisticated architectural and engineering achievements, and should be visited prior to exploring the ancient sites.
Just half an hour away from Polonnaruwa is the Minneriya National Park where large herds of elephants gather at the Minneriya tank within the park, especially during the dry season from around July to September. Sambar, spotted deer, wild buffalo and many species of birds can also be seen in Minneriya.
Sigiriya
The Sigiriya Rock Fortress is one of the most dramatic and magnificent heritage sites in the region. Built by King Kasyapa in the 5th century AD, the Sigiriya rock rises 150 metres and is surrounded by wilderness. At the base are landscaped gardens and irrigation systems surrounded by a moat. Winding steps lead to ruins of galleries, audience halls, and beautiful frescoes etched into the walls. The ruins of the palace sit at the peak looking out to surrounding views of the region. Exploring the Sigiriya Rock Fortress is an incredible experience . Best to attempt the steep climb to the peak early in the morning to avoid the sun. Don’t miss the Sigiriya Archeological Museum at the base of the rock fortress which gives a glimpse into this entire heritage site as it was in 5th century AD.
Dambulla
The ancient cave temples of the Dambulla rock date back to over 2,000 years. For centuries the caves provided shelter for forest dwelling Buddhist monks. King Valagamba, who was also taking refuge here protected by the monks, later developed the caves into a series of temples for the monks. There are a series of five caves consisting of over 150 Buddha statues and extensive Buddhist murals that are well preserved. The climb up to the cave temples is not a difficult one, and best done during early morning to avoid the sun.
Location
The Cultural Triangle is centrally located and easily accessed from all parts of the island. Anuradhapura can be reached via the West coast or via Habarana. Polonnaruwa is two hours north east of Dambulla. Kandy is two hours south of Dambulla.
- Take in the serenity of Anuradhapura’s brilliant white stupas from across the Tisa Wewa Lake.
- Gaze in awe at the serene rock sculptures of Lord Buddha at the ancient Gal Vihara in Polonnaruwa.
- Discover the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
- Explore the ancient cave temples of Dambulla.
- Go on an adventurous jeep safari into Minnerirya National Park where large herds of elephants roam free.

Accommodation in the Cultural Triangle
There are many accommodation options in the main cities of the Cultural Triangle including guesthouses, eco-retreats, and hotels.
Uga Ulagalla,
Anuradhapura
An eco-friendly, luxurious boutique hotel located just half an hour away from the sacred city of Anuradhapura. Set on a 58 acre land with paddy fields, lush gardens and wilderness that attracts over 120 species of birds, Uga Ulagalla is immersed in nature.


Arachchi Heritage,
Anuradhapura
A welcoming 3 bedroom villa set on the banks of the serene Tisawewa lake with breathtaking views of Anuradhapura’s ancient stupas. The villa is contemporary in design with minimalist and modern interiors. Arachchi Heritage offers spacious and comfortable rooms; homemade authentic rice and curries and western cuisine; a personalised service and a tranquil setting that is just 15 minutes away from the sacred city of Anuradhapura.
Amaara Forest,
Sigiriya
An eco-friendly hotel located in the village of Avudangawa and just 15 minutes away from the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Set on 22 acres of which 12 acres are untouched wilderness, this 44 bedroom hotel is ideal for nature lovers.


Roo Mansala,
Sigiriya
An eco-friendly 6 bedroom boutique hotel situated just minutes away from the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Pidurangala rock…an ancient forest monastery from the same period. This is as close as you can get to staying near these awe inspiring ancient heritage sites, and tread on soil where King Kassapa and his retinues achieved magnificent feats that continue to baffle architects and engineers of today.
Arika Villas,
Dambulla
An eco-friendly holiday retreat in Dambulla situated at the edge of an estuary where a serene stream meets a drifting river. This tranquil setting, surrounded by wilderness, allows guests to relax and unwind amidst peaceful surroundings.
