Cultural and Religious Sites
Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura, located in the north west of the island, was the first Sinhalese capital
of Sri Lanka. Established in the 4th century BC, this ancient city is one of many
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the island. Anuradhapura also played a pivotal role
in the nurturing of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and is scattered with many religious monuments.
The kingdom of Anuradhapura was under constant threat of invasion from various Indian
tribes. However this Sinhalese kingdom remained impervious to outside influence.
Therefore Anuradhapura was an exceptionally unique Sri Lankan city and still remains
so today. One of the sacred symbols found in Anuradhapura is Sri Maha Bodhi tree.
This tree is believed to have been planted from a branch of the venerated Bodhgaya
tree, under which Price Siddhartha attained spiritual enlightenment. Brought to
Sri Lanka by Princess Sanghamitta, the tree is also the oldest historically authenticated
tree the world over.
Some of the ancient ruins include numerous monasteries, dagobas (relic chambers),
remnants of lost palaces and archaic bathing tanks (pokunas). Some of the most important
religious and cultural monuments include the Mirisavetiya Dagoba, Ruwanvelisaya
Dagoba, Thuparama Dagoba, Abhayagiriya Dagoba, Samaadhi Statue and the Brazen Palace.
It is evident that Sri Lanka’s magnificent ancient kingdom is a must for any visitor
wishing to explore the country’s rich and colourful history.
Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa- the garden city of ancient Sri Lanka is a testament to the artistry
of its time. Built after the decline of Anuradhapura in the 12th century by king
Parakramabahu I, this kingdom has been painstakingly restored to its original majesty.
Polonnaruwa was also prey to many attacks over the years by Chola invaders from
the south of India. The palpable contrast of the predominantly Buddhist Sri Lankan
Kings and the Chola invaders, who were devoted Brahmins, is evident in the topography
of Polonnaruwa. Ornately decorated Hindu temples sturdily stand side-by-side Buddhist
temples and monasteries, highlighting the power struggle that once prevailed in
this hallowed city.
Polonnaruwa is encircled by the Parakrama Samudra or aptly called the ‘Sea of Parakrama’,
which is a monumental reservoir that will leave any traveler astonished at its sheer
expanse. The reservoir provided shelter from invaders, as well as giving farmers
an ample supply of water for irrigation. Polonnaruwa is the ideal destination for
a traveler wishing to learn about ancient Sri Lankan stone-masonry and architecture.
Sigiriya
This ancient rock fortress is a symbol of a feuding Royal lineage and is often considered
one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic monuments. The UNESCO World Heritage Site that was
built hundreds of years ago displays the skill of Sri Lankan architecture that was
well before its time. The ancient fortress was built by King Kashyapa, who usurped
the throne from his brother and rightful heir, Mogallana. Mogallana sought refuge
in India for a short period of time. As King Kashyapa was certain that his brother
would return to Sri Lanka to seize the throne, he began to build his kingdom on
this rock as it had a defensive advantage. Sigiriya is a complex structure of weaving
gardens, pleasure pools, palaces and buildings constructed to defend the kingdom
from invaders. The ancient frescoes that adorn the surface of the rock are a major
attraction to Sigiriya. These beautiful bare-breasted ladies painted on the walls
are believed to be the King’s daughters. Two huge paws of a lion are the only remnants
of the entrance staircase, which once led people through the mouth of a lion, suggesting
the gigantic proportions of this entrance-way. Sigiriya is often referred to as
the ‘eighth wonder of the World’ and is without a doubt one of Sri Lanka’s most
treasured historical sites. A must visit in your travel itinerary.
Dambulla
Situated in the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka, Dambulla is a mere 72 kilometers
drive north of Kandy city. Dambulla Cave Temple, an ancient Buddist monastery is
the main attraction to this town. Tourists and local devotees have flocked to the
hallowed grounds over the years. The temple is embedded into a large rock which
making it an architectural marvel. Dating back as early as the 3rd century BC, the
caves were once home to a Buddhist monastic establishment. The temple was built
by King Valagamba as a symbol of appreciation as he sought refuge with the monks
during his period of exile. The 18th century paints that adorn the walls of the
temple are glorious and the colourful frescos will have its visitors awe inspired.
A number of the religious statues that can be viewed today date back as far as the
1st century BC. The temple is a testament to the religious expression and artistry
unique to Sri Lanka and therefore a visit to Dambulla must not be missed. Located
near Dambulla is the Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Burial Site, which is an ancient burial
ground dating back over 2000 years. Excavations have found the remnants of human
skeletons and ashes which have implied the presence of post-burial activities.
Temple of the Tooth Relic
The golden roofed temple ( Dalada Maligawa) , located in the This famous temple
( Dalada Maligawa ) located in the heart of Kandy town, is believed to hold the
Sacred Tooth of the Lord Buddha. The precious relic attracts many white-clad pilgrims
bearing lotus flowers as an offertory.
The tooth was considered a symbol of prosperity by the Sinhalese Kings when it was
smuggled into the country in the 4th century A.D. The relic was enshrined in a jewel
encrusted casket and is securely placed within the temple. The temple itself is
a majestic structure; its golden roof, intricate wood carved interior, vibrant painted
walls and glorious shrine are a testament to19th century Sri Lankan artistry.
The Sacred Tooth is paraded through the streets of the town annually at the Kandy
Esala Perahera. Here, the relic is encased in a golden casket and placed on elephant
back in a bold display of pomp and grandeur.
Munneswaram Temple
Considered the oldest Hindu temple in the island, this ancient holy ground is a
place of pilgrimage, with devotees visiting the shrine every year. The origin of
this ancient temple complex is hotly debated even today. The shrine traces back
its roots to the ancient Indian epic of the Ramayana. Legend has it, the brave King
Rama, following the battle waged against daemon-king Ravana, prayed at the very
spot where the temple is situated today. Another myth is that the Munneswaram temple
is homage to the goddess Kali, often associated with sorcery. With the invasion
of the Portuguese and their campaign of forced conversion, the temple with its multihued
statues, was completely destroyed. However the temple was later restored to its
original splendor by King Rajasinghe I and later by generous donations from well
wishers. During the famous Navaratri and Sivarathri festivals, thousands of people
flock to the temple in heed of the vibrant celebrations. Statues of deities are
paraded around the temple complex for all to see.
