Cultural Places to visit in Sri Lanka – Indulge yourself in the island’s rich history

Sri Lanka is an island of cultural harmony and has impressive, legendary heritage sites that keep the history buff in you alive and kicking.

Polonnaruwa

Of all the cultural places to visit in Sri Lanka, tours of the majestic ruins in Polonnaruwa are the most sought after. The architecture and buildings from civilisations long gone are still standing high in this city, which was once the capital of Sri Lanka.

Kandy

In a tailor-made Sri Lanka tour from us at Walkers Tours, your next item on the menu will be the highly sacred, holy Buddhist centre of the island, Kandy. Located among the mountains, this city has people visiting from all over the world for pilgrimage and tourist purposes, and whichever it is, this city won’t cease to amaze you.

Galle Fort

Most tours in Sri Lanka that focus on culture and history of the island will definitely have this one on their list, Galle Fort. Built by the Portuguese back in the 16^th century, this city is never asleep. Tourists visit this part of the island throughout the year, and not just for its history either. The seascape in Galle Fort is one of the best in Sri Lanka, and that is saying something when in an island.

Dambulla

Do old temples and heritage sites give you the chills? The oldest of all, this temple has seen 22 centuries so far and stands proudly in its golden glory. The Golden Temple of Dambulla is a sight for the sore eyes, with its 152 statues and murals along the walls. Located under a rocky mountain, this Buddhist temple is the oldest and best taken care of heritage sites in Sri Lanka.

Anuradhapura

A majestic holy region hidden among lush green trees and lakes, the temples and ruins of Anuradhapura are, by far, the most prominent locations that played a large role in the history of Sri Lanka. Built to be the capital of the island, this city was put to sleep after an invasion in 993. The ruins and temples among the forests are open to public again, and it is something that any history buff shouldn’t miss.

Sigiriya

If you like overlooking misty mountains and being awestruck by the sheer intelligence of building a city on a rock, Sigiriya is the place for you. A nearly vertical climb up a wall of a mountain takes you through giant lion paws and into the city. Built by King Kasyapa for the sole purpose of being the capital during his reign, this city had no expense spared, with its water moats, shrines and delicate carvings.