Cultural Triangle Travel Guide
Sri Lanka’s natural wonders are world-famous, from the prisitne beaches fringing the coastline to the awesome wildlife that inhabits its shores. Delve into the country’s fascinating history and rich cultural heritage, however, and you’ll find even more to explore!
From the influence of Buddhism to the history of Sri Lanka’s most ancient civilisations, the country’s past is diverse and fascinating. So, if historic and religious sites spark your interest, make sure you take a tour of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle!
Located in central Sri Lanka, this region is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites. It’s a fascinating place to immerse yourself in the country’s history, and the best place in Sri Lanka to learn more!
The Cultural Triangle encompasses the ancient cities of Anuradhapura, Kandy, Sigiriya, Dambulla and Polonnaruwa, but what are the most interesting things to see in each?
Who should visit the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka?
If historic temples and ancient ruins are right up your street, you’ll have a blast exploring Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. Wildlife lovers won’t be disappointed, either; the area also covers the Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks where you can spot elephants, birds and perhaps even a leopard!
- Solo travellers
- Groups
- Families
- Couples
- Wildlife lovers
When should you visit the Cultural Triangle?
For the best weather:
The temperature around the Cultural Triangle remains consistently high throughout the year, ranging from 24 – 28 C (75 – 82 F). Rainfall in the region increases significantly in November and December, however, which may put a dampener on your adventure. Arrive in May, June, July, August or September for the driest, sunniest weather!
To beat the crowds:
The Cultural Triangle contains many important historical and religious sites. As such, it receives large numbers of local and international visitors throughout the year. July and August are particualrly busy, as many people time their trip to coincide with the holidays. Visit in May, June or September for slightly smaller crowds. If you’d rather see fewer people than blazing sunshine, go during the rainy season months of October, November, February or March.
To see the animals:
If you plan to go on safari during your trip to the cultural triangle, visit during the dry season months of July, August and September. At this time of year vast numbers of elephants congregate around the Minneriya reservoir to drink, eat and socialize – an incredible sight for anyone lucky enough to witness it!
For the coolest events:
Kandy Esala Perahera
When?
Where? Kandy
The spectacular Esala Perhera festival is held over 10 days in July and August to honour the Sacred Tooth Relic, and is a must-see if you happen to be in Kandy during this time! The celebrations are vibrant and energetic with processions of dancers, musicians, acrobats and even elephants! Marvel at the technicolour costumes and awe-inspiring performances, while soaking up the incredible atmosphere of the festival. Esala Perahera is one of the biggest events in the Sri Lankan calendar, so make sure you don’t miss out!
Things to see and do in the Cultural Triangle
Visit the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa
Travel back in time during your tour of the Cultural Triangle with a trip to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s first ancient capital. Founded in the year 380 BC, Anuradhapura is renowned as one of the world’s oldest inhabited cities. Today, the site is strewn with the remains of great palaces, monasteries and monuments from this once-mighty kingdom. Perhaps the most impressive of these are the trio of dagobas, a wonder of ancient construction second in scale only to the pyramids of Egypt. Travel to the very heart of Anuradhapura and you’ll find the sacred Bo Tree, the site of Buddha’s enlightenment and one of the most spiritually important places in Sri Lanka.
This vast, ancient civilization is the perfect place to kick off your exploration of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. Stay here for a few days to make sure you have time to see everything!
Slightly more recent is the city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s second-oldest kingdom. Polonnaruwa was declared the capital of Sri Lanka in 1070 during the reign of King Vijayabahu, and remains one of the best-planned archaeological cities in the country. The remains of this medieval city are extensive and include palaces, monasteries, temples, statues and bathhouses. The ruins are remarkably well preserved, giving a true sense of how this once-bustling metropolis would have looked in its heyday. Wander beneath the ancient walls of the Central Citadel and marvel at the colossal Buddha statues as you soak in the history of Polonnaruwa!
Check out the cave temples of Dambulla
Dambulla is famous for housing the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. The Dambulla Cave Temple is a network comprising of 80 documented caves, five of which contain the main attractions of Dambulla.
These include ancient paintings and statues of Lord Buddha, as well as extensive murals covering an area of 2100 square meters. Cave 1 contains the reclining Buddha, a magnificent, 15 m long statue with traces of the original lavish paintwork.
Most impressive, however, is cave 2, which houses over 150 life-size images and sculptures of Buddha within its richly-painted walls.
Soak up some culture in the sacred city of Kandy
The ancient city of Kandy is the second largest in Sri Lanka and is renowned as the country’s cultural capital. Kandy’s key attraction is The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, arguably Sri Lanka’s most important religious site. This UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to the 18th century and houses a shrine containing the Sacred Tooth of Buddha himself. This remarkable artefact is a must-see in the Cultural Triangle, and Kandy has much more besides! Spend a few days exploring the varied attractions of Kandy, from the Botanical Garden to the dance and drum performances.
Seek out the wildlife of the Kaudulla and Minneriya National Parks
If you’re ready to take a break from ruins, plan a safari through the Kaudulla or Minneriya National Park. Both are located within the Cultural Triangle, so planning a visit between cities is easy! These vast swathes of greenery are home to some spectacular wildlife species. The luckiest of visitors may even encounter rare species, such as the leopard or sloth bear.
If birdlife is what excites you take a trip to Kaudulla National Park, which is home to 160 avian species. For larger fauna visit the Minneriya National Park during the dry-season months of July, August or September. At this time of year, elephants gather in their hundreds to drink from the reservoir in the center of the park, for an unmissable spectacle you’ll never forget!
Explore the ancient Sigiriya Rock Fortress
One of Sri Lanka’s most famous historical sites in the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, an ancient palace built atop the awe-inspiring Lion Rock. This colossal column of rock is actually a naturally formed magma plug and stands an impressive 200 m high.
Hike to the top to view the sprawling ruins from the summit, which include ancient ponds, pavillions and gardens. Originally the home of King Kashyapa and his harem, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress has presided over the town since the 5th century. This magnificent fortress is a wonder of ancient architecture and was built on a grand scale. Today, however, only 20% of the original structures remain.
Wander through the temple complex of Mt. Mihintale
The temple complex of Mihintale is regarded as the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and is a site of great religious significance. The mountaintop site of Mihintale sits atop 1850 steps and is home to dozens of ancient religious artefacts. Many of the shrines, stupas and dwellings of Mihintale have been around since the 2nd century. The oldest of these is the Kantaka Chetiya dagoba, an ancient stupa that originally stood 30 m high.
The unique carvings and architecture of the monasteries, aqueducts and monuments of Mihintale are a sight not to be missed. Take a day-trip to this fascinating holy site to learn more about the religion and spirituality of Sri Lanka!
Off the beaten track…
Pay a visit to the Aukana Buddha
Make sure you don’t miss Sri Lanka’s most perfectly preserved statue, the remarkable Aukana Buddha. This 12 m sculpture is located in Aukana Village and dates all the way back to the 8th century. Carved entirely from one colossal piece of stone, the Buddha is best viewed at sunrise when the face is illuminated by the first light of dawn.
The Aukana Buddha is an awesome tribute to the ancient cultural heritage of Sri Lanka, though it’s less visited than other sites in the area. Schedule in a trip on your way from Anuradhapura to Dambulla!
Where to stay in the Cultural Triangle
Sigiriya
The home of the world-famous Sigiriya Rock fortress is also within 20 km of Minneriya National Park. Staying here is, therefore, a great option for anyone hoping to take a safari while touring the Cultural Triangle, especially if you visit during the annual elephant gathering!
Habarana
If location is your top priority, consider staying in Habarana while you’re in the Cultural Triangle. This is right in the middle of all the major attractions (Dambulla, Sigiriya, Minneriya National Park, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa), so it’s the ideal jumping off point!
Anuradhapura
To truly immerse yourself in the history of Sri Lanka, look for a hotel in Anuradhapura. This gives you unbeatable access to Sri Lanka’s most ancient city – perfect for exploring!