The Cultural Triangle is the dry heart of Sri Lanka, where the island's ancient kingdoms built their capitals, temples and great reservoirs. Five of its sites are on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Most visitors spend three to five nights here, often in one base.
The ancient cities
Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura was the first great capital, with huge stupas and the sacred Bodhi tree, one of the most revered sites in Sri Lankan Buddhism.
Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa, the later medieval capital, is compact and easy to explore by bicycle, with the Vatadage and the carved Buddhas of Gal Vihara.
Sigiriya and Dambulla
Sigiriya, the rock fortress of King Kashyapa, is climbed by about 1,200 steps. Dambulla has cave temples full of painted ceilings and statues.
Wildlife
Minneriya and Kaudulla host the elephant gathering in the dry season, usually peaking from August to October. Habarana, at the centre, is the most convenient base for safaris.
Kandy
Kandy, the last royal capital, is often counted as the triangle's southern point. See our hill-country pages for more.
Planning tips
- Start early: sites are hot and exposed by late morning.
- Cover shoulders and knees and remove shoes and hats at temples.
- Entrance fees for foreign visitors are paid at each site.
See also things to do around Habarana.
A sample plan
With three nights in Habarana or Sigiriya: day one, Sigiriya at opening time and Dambulla's caves in the afternoon; day two, Polonnaruwa and an afternoon elephant safari; day three, Anuradhapura. Add a fourth night if you want time to rest by the pool.
Where to stay
Most visitors choose one base for the whole region. See our hotels in Habarana.