The island nation of Sri Lanka is a haven of adventure and countless examples of unimaginable beauty that continues to attract both locals and foreigners throughout the year who yearn for a tropical holiday with a difference. Beyond scintillating coastlines and luxury 5 star hotel chains, the country possesses a rich assortment of World Heritage Sites that have been recognised by UNESCO for its deep-rooted cultural ties and influences in the overall makeup of the country’s history.
Regarded as one of Asia’s greatest civilisations, Anuradhapura is a city that showcases traces of an ancient culture together with ruins of Buddhist temples, stupas and man-made tanks. Located in the North Central Province and within close proximity to the famed Malvathu Oya, the city is one of Sri Lanka’s most revered places of Buddhists and often serves as a pilgrimage site for devotees. Visit the enchanting Ruwanwelisaya built by King Dutugemunu as part of a tour to the area. The ancient capital of Polonnaruwa, which was once the victim of many South Indian invasions is yet another World Heritage Site and famous archaeological centre in Sri Lanka. If you’re in the area, why not head over to the Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu the Great and marvel at one of the centres of ancient Sri Lankan governance.
Sigiriya serves as a rock fortress on which King Kasyapa constructed his palace in the 4th century A.D. The area comprises ancient moats and manicured gardens while being at centre of traditional local art. Take a trip with the entire family and call at the mirror wall which proudly depicts the famed frescoes of Sigiriya. This engineering masterpiece was unveiled as a World Heritage Site in the year 1982. The cave temple in Dambulla, also referred to as the ‘Golden Temple of Dambulla,’ is known to be the best preserved cave temple complex in the country. It houses a large number of caves out of which five denote statues of Hindu gods, Lord Buddha and paintings of the Buddha himself. A cradle of the Buddhist faith is undoubtedly the Sri Dalada Maligawa found in Kandy that was once the country’s capital from 1592 to 1815. The Maligawa which houses the sacred relic of Lord Buddha is one of the most sought after of destinations in the country which continues to be venerated by Buddhists the world over.
If you’re looking to schedule a visit to any of the country’s World Heritage Sites, talk to Travel Sri Lanka who will offer you tailor-made Sri Lanka holidays. Discover the pageantry of the emerald isle by taking advantage of such Sri Lanka tours.
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday. Google+
