Thaproban Sri Lanka


Cultural Heritage





Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage is a rich tapestry of ancient cities, sacred temples, and historic traditions, reflecting over 2,500 years of civilization and Buddhist influence.



8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites





Sri Lanka is home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcasing its rich cultural and natural heritage, including ancient cities, sacred temples, colonial forts, and biodiverse rainforests.



01. Anuradhapura



Anuradhapura, first settled during the Iron Age, later evolved into one of the world's earliest planned cities. It boasted palaces, sacred sites, monasteries, cemeteries, and advanced water tanks, forming one of the most sophisticated irrigation systems of its time.





Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s first capital, was once the greatest monastic city of the ancient world, home to over 100 kings and thousands of monks. Founded in the 4th century BC, it became the capital two centuries later and remained a royal stronghold until its abandonment in 1073.


Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Anuradhapura boasts ancient monasteries, stupas like Thuparamaya and Ruwanwelisaya, and the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi. Its sophisticated irrigation systems and grand ruins stand as a testament to its rich history.



Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi



Ruwanweli Maha Seya



Samadhi Buddha Statue



Mihintale



Abhayagiri Dagoba



Avukana Buddha Statue



02. Polonnaruwa



Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s second-oldest kingdom, became the island’s capital after Anuradhapura's destruction in 993 AD.





Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s second ancient capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved ruins, including palaces, temples, pools, and civic structures. It became the royal capital in 1073 after King Vijayabahu I reclaimed it from South Indian Chola invaders. Under King Parakramabahu I, Polonnaruwa thrived before declining in the late 13th century. Today, its impressive ruins, including the stunning Gal Vihara Buddha statues, offer a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s medieval grandeur.



Rankoth Vehera



Medirigiriya Vatadage



Lankathilaka Pilima Geya



The ancient structure of Vatadage



Archaeological Museum



King Parakrambahu's Palace



03. Kandy



Kandy is home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), one of the holiest Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world.





Kandy, Sri Lanka’s hill-country capital, is surrounded by the Mahaweli River and lush mountains, offering a cool climate and scenic beauty. It was the last kingdom to fall to the British in 1815. The Temple of the Tooth Relic, a sacred Buddhist site, houses Lord Buddha’s relic. Kandy is also home to the Buddhist chapters of Mallwatte and Asgiriya. The annual Kandy Perahera, a vibrant procession, celebrates its rich cultural heritage. Kandy became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988.



The Temple of the Tooth



Kandy Perahera



Kandy City at Night



Kandyan Cultural Show



Gadaladeniya Temple



Gadaladeniya Temple



04. Sigiriya



Perched on Lion Rock, it is an engineering masterpiece and a prime example of ancient urban planning in Sri Lanka.





Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and often called the 8th Wonder of the World, is a breathtaking rock fortress rising 650 feet above the ground. Built by King Kasyapa in the 5th century, it features elaborate gardens, frescoes, and a palace atop the rock. Highlights include the Mirror Wall, ancient frescoes, and impressive hydraulic systems that elevated water to the summit. Sigiriya’s dramatic history and stunning architecture make it one of the world’s most remarkable historical sites.



Lion's paw, the entrance



World famous Frescos



Mysterious Irrigation System



Ritigala Forest Monastery



Pidurangala Rock



Water Ponds atop Sigiriya



05. Dambulla



The Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple, consisting of five sanctuaries, is the largest and best-preserved cave-temple complex in Sri Lanka.





Located in the heart of Sri Lanka, Dambulla was once the cultural and spiritual center of an ancient kingdom. Today, it is home to some of the country’s most significant ruins and national parks. The Dambulla Cave Temple, built in the 1st century BC, features colorful frescoes and over 2,000-year-old depictions of Buddha’s life and previous births. The temple houses the largest collection of Buddha statues, including a 14-meter-long reclining Buddha carved into the rock.



14-meter-long reclining Buddha



Exterior of the Cave Temple



Frescoes on the Stone Roof



Largest Pink Quartz Mountain



Golden Buddha Statue



Interior of the Cave Temple



06. Galle



In 1505, Portuguese sailors led by Don Lorenzo de Almeida arrived in Sri Lanka and constructed the first fortification in Galle, perched on a cliff overlooking the sea. Originally called the Swart Bastion (Black Fort) in 1520, it was later expanded and strengthened by the Dutch in 1667.





Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was first built by the Portuguese and later expanded by the Dutch and British. Covering nearly four square kilometers, it is protected by 12 bastions and ramparts. Key landmarks include the Dutch Reformed Church, All Saints Church, and the Amangalla Hotel. The Dutch also introduced an innovative tide-based sewage system. Today, narrow roads with colonial-era houses and shops remain, many now converted into boutique hotels and villas, preserving their historic architecture.



Unawatuna & Roomassala



Galle Fort Lighthouse



An aerial view of Galle Fort



Stilt Fishing at Koggala Beach



Unawatuna Jungle Beach



Old building at Galle Rampart



07. Central Highlands



The Central Highlands of Sri Lanka are home to the island's remaining rainforests, which provide a habitat for many threatened plant and animal species.





Sri Lanka's highlands, located in the south-central region, include the Peak Wilderness, Horton Plains National Park, and Knuckles Conservation Forest. Rising up to 2,500 meters above sea level, these montane forests are home to diverse flora and fauna, including endangered species like the Sri Lankan leopard and the western-purple-faced langur. This area is a biodiversity hotspot, with many unique species thriving in its protected environment.


This mountainous region, featuring expansive grass plains, consists of three protected areas:

  • Peak Wilderness Sanctuary, home to Adam's Peak
  • Horton Plains National Park
  • Knuckles Mountain Range

Adam's Peak, the highest point at 2,243m, is believed to hold Lord Buddha's footprint, making it a key pilgrimage site for Buddhists. In July 2010, the Central Highlands, including Horton Plains, Peak Wilderness Sanctuary, and Knuckles Mountain Range, were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.



Chimney Pond - Horton Plains



Knuckles Mountain Range



Adam's Peak



Leopard in Horton Plains



Montane Grassland - Riverston



Mini World's End - Riverston



08. Sinharaja Rain Forest



The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) recognizes Sinharaja as Sri Lanka's last large primary lowland tropical rainforest.





Sinharaja, Sri Lanka’s last virgin rainforest, offers a unique and immersive experience. Trekking through this lush, mysterious jungle is like stepping into a world of vibrant colors and sounds—waterfalls, streams, rustling leaves, and chirping wildlife. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989. Located in the southwest, 40 km from Galle, Sinharaja spans mountains and ridges, and is rich in biodiversity, housing 73 endemic species of flora and fauna, making it a globally recognized biodiversity hotspot.



The Fascinating Biodiversity



Mammals in Sinharaja



Tropical Pitcher Plant



Endemic Spur Fowl



Brahmana Ella



Grizzled Giant Squirrel



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