Attractions
UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Sri Lanka
The World Heritage List compiled by UNESCO of places that are considered part of the world’s heritage which should be protected, includes eight remarkable attractions in Sri Lanka. These are the ruins of the ancient kingdom of Anuradhapura, which flourished from the 5th century BC until the 10th century; the ruins of the successor kingdom, Polonnaruwa (9th to 14th century) and the incredible Sigiriya Rock, which became a fortress in the 5th century.
The entire city of Kandy (the seat of kings from the 16th to the 19th century) with its revered temple is a World Heritage site as is the Dambulla caves and temple dating from the 1st century BC. Galle Fort begun by the Portuguese in 1588, is number 200 on UNESCO’s list. There are two natural landmarks on the list: the Sinharaja Forest Reserve and the Central Highlands (Peak Wilderness, Horton Plains, and the Knuckles Conservation Forest.)
Sacred Kingdom of Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura was the first capital of Sri Lanka (5th century BC – 9th century AD), the centre of the island’s Buddhist civilization
Ancient City of Polonnaruwa
This medieval city rose to fame as the capital (10th – 12th century AD) after the decline of Anuradhapura
Ancient City of Sigiriya
This spectacular Rock Fortress is one of Sri Lanka’s major attractions. The most impressive facets of the unique complex are the Water Gardens.
