Cultural Triangle 2025 & 2026 

The Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka is an expansive region that encompasses the cultural heartland of the island, boasting a wealth of historical sites, ancient ruins, and architectural marvels that span millennia. At its core lie the ancient cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Sigiriya, each bearing testament to Sri Lanka's rich heritage and illustrious past. 

 

Beyond these ancient cities, the Cultural Triangle is dotted with lesser-known but equally fascinating archaeological sites, including the mysterious ruins of Ritigala, the cave temples of Dambulla, and the majestic rock carvings of Buduruwagala. Each site offers a unique window into Sri Lanka's diverse cultural heritage, from its ancient Buddhist roots to its medieval splendour. 

 

Whether exploring ancient cities, admiring sacred relics, or unravelling the mysteries of ancient civilizations, the Cultural Triangle promises a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of Sri Lanka's cultural heritage, leaving visitors awestruck by the depth and diversity of the island's history. 

This ancient rock fortress rises abruptly from the lush landscape and reaches over 200 metres in height. Crowning this massive outcrop are the ruins of an ancient civilisation, which are considered one of the best-preserved examples of ancient urban planning and have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can walk through the lily-dotted moats, lush gardens and cave shrines, through the grand lion-paw entrance, and climb the series of steep staircases passing beautiful murals painted on the sheer rock walls, and enjoy exploring the ruins and soaking up spectacular views of the surrounds. 

Situated in the Central Province's Matale District, of Sri Lanka, Dambulla is a large town famous for its 2000-year-old rock cave temple known as ‘Dambulla Cave temple’ (or ‘Golden Temple of Dambulla’). This UNESCO World Heritage Site is said to be the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka, encompassing numerous caves filled with a collection of religious statues and colourful murals. 

Anuradhapura is an impressive major city set on the banks of the Malvathu River and is an important heritage area, recognised by UNESCO. The city developed around the sacred, third-century tree of enlightenment, Sri Maha Bodhi, said to be the oldest tree on earth, looked after for 2000 years. A massive collection of ancient ruins encompasses monasteries, palaces, and other monuments, and is surrounded by beautiful green jungle. Numerous sites are still used for religious ceremonies today. 

Located between Habarana and Polonnaruwa, the 8,890 hectares of Minneriya National Park features the ancient Minneriya Tank. Constructed in an evergreen forest where sambar deer, leopards, and elephants roam, this tank was built in 3rd century AD by King Mahasena. During the dry season (June to September), this is an incredible place to observe the elephants and flocks of birds, such as cormorants and painted storks.