Sri Lanka, a gem of the Indian Ocean, is a land steeped in history and culture. Among its many treasures, the Cultural Triangle stands out as a testament to the island’s rich heritage. This region, encompassing the ancient cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy, is a must-visit for any traveler interested in exploring Sri Lanka’s historical and religious sites. Each city within the triangle offers a unique glimpse into the past, with well-preserved ruins, sacred temples, and stunning landscapes that tell the story of a civilization that thrived over 2,000 years ago.

Anuradhapura: The Sacred City

Our journey through the Cultural Triangle begins in Anuradhapura, the first capital of Sri Lanka and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Established around the 4th century BCE, Anuradhapura served as the heart of early Sri Lankan civilization for over a millennium. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its well-preserved ruins and significant religious sites.

One of the most important landmarks in Anuradhapura is the Sri Maha Bodhi tree, a sacred fig tree believed to have grown from a cutting of the original Bodhi tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. Planted in 288 BCE, it is the oldest living tree in the world with a known planting date and continues to be a place of pilgrimage for Buddhists around the globe.

The city is also home to several impressive stupas, or dagobas, which are monumental structures built to house relics. The Ruwanwelisaya, also known as the Great Stupa, is one of the most famous. Built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BCE, it stands as a symbol of Buddhist devotion and Sri Lankan ingenuity. Another notable stupa is the Jetavanaramaya, which was once the tallest structure in the world after the pyramids of Egypt and remains one of the largest brick structures ever built.

Anuradhapura’s vast array of ruins, including palaces, monasteries, and intricate carvings, offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s grandeur during its peak. The Abhayagiri Monastery, once one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in the world, is particularly noteworthy for its stunning moonstones and intricate stone carvings that depict scenes from ancient Buddhist texts.

Polonnaruwa: The Ancient Kingdom

Continuing our journey, we arrive at Polonnaruwa, the second capital of ancient Sri Lanka. After the fall of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa emerged as the new seat of power in the 11th century and flourished under the reign of King Parakramabahu I. Today, Polonnaruwa is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved ruins that offer a window into the country’s medieval period.

The Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu I is one of the most striking structures in Polonnaruwa. Once a massive seven-story building with a thousand rooms, the palace now stands in ruins, but the grandeur of its design is still evident. Nearby, the Council Chamber with its beautifully carved stone pillars gives insight into the administrative prowess of the ancient kings.

Polonnaruwa is also home to some of the most exquisite examples of ancient Sinhalese sculpture. The Gal Vihara, a group of four Buddha statues carved from a single granite rock, is perhaps the most famous. These statues, depicting the Buddha in various postures (seated, standing, and reclining), are considered masterpieces of Buddhist art and are revered by both locals and visitors.

Another must-see site is the Rankoth Vehera, a large stupa that closely resembles the Ruwanwelisaya in Anuradhapura. It is surrounded by smaller stupas and other structures that make up a complex where monks once lived and practiced.

Polonnaruwa’s Parakrama Samudra is a vast man-made reservoir built by King Parakramabahu I, reflecting the advanced irrigation systems of the time. The king’s famous words, “Not even a drop of water should flow into the ocean without serving the people,” highlight the importance of water management in sustaining the kingdom’s prosperity.

Kandy: The Last Royal Capital

The final point in the Cultural Triangle is Kandy, the last capital of the ancient kings of Sri Lanka and the spiritual heart of the country. Nestled in the central highlands, Kandy is surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, offering a picturesque setting for its many historical and religious sites.

At the center of Kandy’s cultural significance is the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which houses the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. The relic is the most revered object in Sri Lanka, and the temple is a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The annual Esala Perahera festival, held in Kandy, is one of the oldest and most elaborate Buddhist festivals in the world, featuring a grand procession with decorated elephants, traditional dancers, and musicians.

The Royal Palace of Kandy, located adjacent to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, was the residence of the last king of Sri Lanka, King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe. Although much of the original palace has been lost to history, the remaining structures and the National Museum of Kandy housed within the palace grounds offer a glimpse into the opulence of the Kandyan Kingdom.

Kandy’s beautiful Kandy Lake, also known as the Sea of Milk, adds to the city’s serene atmosphere. Built by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe in 1807, the lake is a central feature of the city and offers a peaceful spot for a leisurely walk.

Beyond the historical sites, Kandy is also a gateway to the Knuckles Mountain Range and the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary, offering opportunities for nature lovers to explore the island’s diverse flora and fauna.

Tips for Travelers

To fully experience the Cultural Triangle, it’s recommended to spend at least a week exploring the region. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is most favorable for outdoor exploration.

While in the Cultural Triangle, hiring a knowledgeable guide can greatly enhance your understanding of the historical and religious significance of each site. Many of the ruins are spread out, so renting a bicycle or taking a tuk-tuk tour can be a convenient way to get around.

For accommodations, the region offers a range of options, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels, many of which are located close to the major sites.

Conclusion

Exploring the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka is like stepping back in time to an era of ancient kings, sacred temples, and remarkable feats of engineering. Whether you’re a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or simply a traveler looking to experience the rich culture of Sri Lanka, this region offers something for everyone. As you wander through the ancient ruins, stand in awe of the majestic stupas, and witness the devotion of the pilgrims, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring legacy of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage.