10 Ancient Sites to Visit in Sri Lanka trip: Architectural Wonders You Must See

Most of the ancient construction, including the below mentioned 10 incredible ancient sites to visit in Sri Lanka trip, are concentrated in the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka. The cultural triangle of Sri Lanka includes many cultural and historical sites such as Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla and Kandy. Many of the ancient constructions of Sri Lanka still remain secret for most people around the world, and only a few places have been excavated. Popular archaeologists, engineers, and scientists investigated some of these historical sites. These investigators have come up with various ideas and opinions about these historical constructions. Below mentioned ancient sites to visit in Sri Lanka and many other ancient constructions in the cultural triangle have been turned into ruins over many 1000 years.

Table of Contents

• 10 Ancient Sites to Visit in Sri Lanka trip
• Why Ancient Sites to Visit in Sri Lanka Trip Are a Big Deal
• Where Can We See Ancient Sites in Sri Lanka
• No 1. Lovamahapaya
• No 2. Yodha Ela or Giant canal
• 3. Nalanda Gedige
• 4. Jetawnarama Stupa
• 5. Ancient hospital of Mihintale
• 6. Parakram Samudra or Parakrama Sea
• 7. Sigiriya Rock Fortress
• 8. Ruwanwelisaya Stupa: The Gem-Studded Wonder
• 9. Thuparamaya: The First Stupa
• 10. Abhayagiri Vihara: The Colossal Monastery
• Planning Your Visit to Sri Lanka’s Ancient Wonders
• Frequently Asked Questions

10 Ancient Sites to Visit in Sri Lanka trip

Sri Lanka is a tiny island in the Indian Ocean. Despite its small size, the island has a very special geographical location. Sri Lanka is considered as one of the places on Earth with the least gravity. In the early days of Sinhalese civilization, the people of Sri Lanka had been able to accomplish many highly advanced and complicated as well as gigantic constructions such as Sigiriya rock fortress, and Jetawanarama Dagoba.

Why Ancient Sites to Visit in Sri Lanka Trip Are a Big Deal

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why these ancient constructions are so special:

1. Advanced Engineering: Many of these structures were built using techniques that were way ahead of their time.
2. Massive Scale: Some of these constructions were among the largest man-made structures in the ancient world.
3. Longevity: Many of these wonders have stood for over a thousand years – talk about built to last!
4. Cultural Significance: These structures played crucial roles in the religious and social life of ancient Sri Lanka.
5. Aesthetic Beauty: Beyond their technical brilliance, many of these wonders are simply breathtaking to behold.

Where Can We See Ancient Sites in Sri Lanka

If you are wondering where to see ancient sites in Sri Lanka, the best bet for you is venturing into the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka. Most of the ancient construction of Sri Lanka is concentrated in the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka. The cultural triangle of Sri Lanka includes many cultural and historical sites such as Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla and Kandy. Many of the ancient constructions of Sri Lanka still remain secret for most people around the world, and only a few places have been excavated. Popular archaeologists, engineers, and scientists investigated some of these historical sites. These investigators have come up with various ideas and opinions about these historical constructions. Most of the ancient constructions in the cultural triangle have been turned into ruins over many 1000 years.

At present Sri Lanka is technically and scientifically far behind in comparison to most other countries in the world. But in the past technologically Sri Lanka was very advanced compared to most other countries in the world.

If you are travelling to Sri Lanka and would like to explore some of the awe-inspiring constructions achieved by the ancient people of Sri Lanka, your bet best is a trip to Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle. The cultural triangle of Sri Lanka is tucked away about 200km from the city of Colombo and it harbours 1000 ancient Dagobas, temples, palaces, gardens, and many other constructions. In this article, we discuss 6 awe-inspiring constructions in ancient Sri Lanka.

No 1. Lovamahapaya

Location: Anuradhapura Built: 2nd century BCE

Imagine a nine-story building with 1,000 rooms, all built over 2,000 years ago.

What Makes It Special:

• It was once covered in copper sheets, hence the name “Brazen Palace.”
• The building showcased advanced multi-story construction techniques.
• Its 1,600 stone columns are a testament to ancient Sri Lankan architecture.

Interesting Tidbit: The building was struck by lightning and rebuilt several times in history.

Lovamahapaya is one of the ,most popular ancient sites in Sri Lanka and it attracts a large number of travellers everyday. Lovamahapaya is included in most Sri Lanka cultural tours and it is one of the 10 Ancient Sites to Visit in Sri Lanka trip. Visiting Lovamahapaya is onwe of the main activity in the Anuradhapura city tour. Lovamahapaya was a 9 storied building and its foundations were built using 1600 gigantic granite columns. It was built by King Dutugemunu, who ruled the country from 161 BC to 137 BC.

The Entire building was resting on these 1600 granite columns. One side of the building was 400 ft (120 m) in length. According to the historical information it was reconstructed several times due to the destructions caused by invasion and a fire. Even though the original building was 9 stories the later it was reduced a few stories as it was re-constructed. He Lovamahapaya was constructed in the ancient city of Anuradhapura. Visitors to the ancient city can witness the 1600 columns of the building and it is the last remaining part of this imposing construction. It is said the roof of the building was constructed using bronze; hence it was called “Lovahapaya”. It is said the Portuguese destroyed the metal roof in the early 15s.

No 2. Yodha Ela or Giant canal

Location: From Kalawewa to Anuradhapura Built: 5th century CE

Last but definitely not least, we have an ancient canal that puts modern waterways to shame!

Why It’s Amazing:

• It runs for 87 kilometers with a gradient of just 15 centimeters per kilometer.
• This precision was achieved without modern surveying equipment.
• It’s still functioning today, providing water for agriculture.

Mind-Blowing Fact: The canal’s gradient is so precise that water flows both ways during different seasons!

“Yoda Ela” or Giant Canal also called “Jaya Ganga”, is a canal it is 87 km (54 mi) long. Only one side of the canal has a bank and it carries water from to Tissa Wewa reservoir from the Kala Wewa reservoir in Anuradhapura. This ancient canal is built with a very low gradient and its gradient is about 10 centimetres per kilometre or 6 inches per mile. The modern engineers were surprised to see an ancient canal of this size with such a very low gradient. Yoda Ela was constructed during the reign of King Dhathusena, who ruled the country in 458 AD. It has a gradient of the order of 0.32 m (1.0 ft) drop along 1.61 km (1.00 mi). Even with modern-day survey equipment, it would be difficult to achieve such accuracy. The Kalawewa reservoir is located at a bit lower altitude compared to the Tissa were, however, this ingenious construction has been able to carry water from a lower elevated area to a higher elevated point.

3. Nalanda Gedige

Nalanda Gedige is a popular ancient sites in Sri Lanka related to Buddhism. The temple is located in Matale in the central province of Sri Lanka. The temple had been built at the geographical centre of the island. The temple shows the characteristics of Hindu architecture and it is a Dravidian-styled building. The temple had been constructed between the 8th and 10th century AD. Despite its Hindu characteristics, this temple had been used as a Buddhist temple. A stone inscription that was written between 9 to 10th centuries AD, discovered at the site revealed that the temple was serving as a Buddhist monastery. The inscription was written in Sinhalese language and it also contains the rules and regulations pertaining to the temple

The ancient temple is built using granite stones and it is consisting of an entrance hall, a short passage to a bare cello, and an ambulatory around the holy centre. A few Hindu god figures had also been found in the temple.

Scientist has discovered that about 5000 years ago when the sea level was much lower than today, the location of Nalanda Gedige was the centre of gravity of Sri Lanka. Scientist has discovered that when a fire is ignited in the temple it spread faster compared to any other place in Sri Lanka. Some people opine that Nalanda Gedige was constructed by King Ravana and he built it to attract universal energy.  

4. Jetawnarama Stupa

Location: Anuradhapura Built: 3rd century CE

Imagine a brick structure as tall as a 40-story modern building. Now imagine it was built over 1,700 years ago. That’s Jetavanaramaya for you!

Why It’s Amazing:

• At the time of its completion, it was the third-tallest structure in the world, after the Great Pyramids of Giza.
• It’s made of approximately 93 million baked bricks. That’s a lot of bricks!
• The precision of its construction allowed it to stand for centuries without modern materials like cement.

Fun Fact: The stupa is said to house a part of a sash or belt worn by the Buddha.

The Jetavanarama stupa or better known as Jetavanaramaya Dagoba is part of an ancient Buddhist monastery. The Stupa functioned as a reliquary monument. The Stupa can still be seen in the ancient Jetawanarama monastery complex the UNESCO world heritage city of Anuradhapura. Originally it was 400 ft (122 meters) tall and it was the tallest Buddhist construction in the world. Jetawanarama was built during the reign of King Mahasen (273–301). Jetawanaram stupa was the 3rd tallest structure in the world during that time. Jetawanarama temple complex decayed over many thousands of years after abandonment by Sinhalese kings due to foreign invasions. Today it stands at 71 metres (233 ft).

5. Ancient hospital of Mihintale

The ruins of the ancient hospital of Mihintale can be seen at the foot of Mihintale Mountain. The ancient medicinal bath made of granite can still be seen at the site. These medicinal baths or stone canoes had been used to treat patients and patients were immersed in medicinal oil during the treatment. The Mihintale ancient temple is considered one of the oldest temples in the world and it was an Ayurveda hospital.  The hospital was equipped with separate living quarters for the patients.

6. Parakram Samudra or Parakrama Sea

Location: Polonnaruwa Built: 12th century CE

Who said ancient wonders have to be temples? This massive man-made lake is a testament to Sri Lanka’s advanced irrigation systems.

Why It’s Impressive:

• At 2,500 hectares, it’s one of the largest ancient man-made lakes in the world.
• Its complex sluice and canal system showcases advanced hydraulic engineering.
• It’s still in use today, over 800 years after its construction!

Fun Fact: The lake is actually three interconnected reservoirs.

“Do not let even a drop of rainwater in this country go to the sea without use” is a popular quote on the island it was first spelt by King Parakramabahu, who made the island the granary of South Asia in the 12th century AD. According to historical information, rice was exported to other countries during the reign of King Parakramabahu. King Parakramabahu constructed many lakes and reservoirs to collect rainwater in the dry zone and Parakaram Samudra is one of the biggest reservoirs he built to collect rainwater.

 Parakrama Samudra is located in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. The reservoir was constructed by King Parakramabahu and he ruled the country from 1153 to 1186. The reservoir is consisting of 5 parts they are thopa wewa, dumbutulu wewa, erabadu wewa, bhu wewa and, kalahagala tanks these 5 separate water reservoirs were connected by narrow channels.

Topa Wewa is located towards the northernmost point of the complex and it was built around 386 AD. In the middle of the complex is the Eramudu Wewa or Eramudu reservoir. Dumbutula Wewa, is located towards the southernmost tip of the complex. The middle section and southernmost part of the complex were constructed under the leadership of King Parakramabahu.

7. Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Location: Matale District Built: 5th century CE

A palace on top of a 200-meter-high rock? Now that’s what I call a room with a view!

What Makes It Special:

• The water gardens at the base use an intricate hydraulic system to function.
• The famous Sigiriya frescoes showcase advanced painting techniques.
• The Mirror Wall’s graffiti provides insights into ancient Sinhala.

Don’t Miss: The massive lion paws at the entrance to the final ascent.

Certainly! I’ll provide a more detailed 150-word paragraph about Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress, often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” is a testament to ancient Sri Lankan ingenuity and artistry. Rising dramatically 200 meters above the surrounding plains, this 5th-century fortress-palace complex was built by King Kasyapa as an unassailable stronghold and pleasure palace.

The site’s most striking feature is the massive column of rock, which visitors climb via a series of vertiginous staircases. Along the way, you’ll encounter the world-famous Sigiriya frescoes, colorful paintings of celestial maidens that have survived for over 1,500 years. At the halfway point, the enormous Lion’s Paw greets climbers, remnants of a once-colossal lion statue. The summit reveals ruins of the ancient palace and breathtaking panoramic views. Perhaps most impressive are the symmetrical water gardens at the base, showcasing complex hydraulic engineering that still functions today. Sigiriya isn’t just a fortress; it’s a masterpiece of urban planning, engineering, and artistic achievement.

8. Ruwanwelisaya Stupa: The Gem-Studded Wonder

Location: Anuradhapura Built: 2nd century BCE

This massive white dome isn’t just a pretty face – it’s an engineering marvel that has stood for over 2,000 years!

What’s Cool About It:

• Perfect hemispherical shape achieved without modern tools.
• Innovative use of materials like crystalline limestone for the dome.
• Intricate carvings and gemstone decorations.

Insider Tip: Visit during a full moon poya day to see it at its most magical.

Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, also known as the Great Stupa, stands as a monumental testament to ancient Sri Lankan architecture and Buddhist devotion. Commissioned by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BCE, this massive white dome dominates the skyline of Anuradhapura, the ancient capital. Rising to a height of 103 meters (338 feet), the stupa’s perfect hemispherical shape was an incredible feat of engineering for its time.

This structure is said to contain relics of the Buddha, making it one of the most sacred sites for Buddhists worldwide. Its surface, covered in gleaming white plaster made from lime, crushed pearls, and clay, reflects sunlight brilliantly. The stupa is surrounded by an elaborate elephant wall, featuring 344 stone elephants, symbolically bearing the weight of the structure. Ruwanwelisaya’s construction involved innovative techniques, including the use of giant bamboo centring to achieve its perfect shape. Today, it remains an active place of worship, drawing thousands of pilgrims and tourists alike, especially during full moon poya days.

9. Thuparamaya: The First Stupa

Location: Anuradhapura Built: 3rd century BCE

Small but mighty, Thuparamaya holds the honor of being the first stupa built in Sri Lanka.

Why It’s Cool:

• It’s said to contain the right collarbone of the Buddha.
• The surrounding stone pillars showcase an ancient architectural style.
• Its bell shape became the model for many future stupas in Sri Lanka.

Don’t Miss: The intricately carved moonstone at the entrance.

Certainly! I’ll provide a more detailed 150-word paragraph about Thuparamaya.

Thuparamaya, nestled in the sacred city of Anuradhapura, holds the distinguished honor of being the first dagoba (stupa) built in Sri Lanka, marking the formal introduction of Buddhism to the island. Constructed in the 3rd century BCE during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa, this ancient monument is said to enshrine the right collarbone relic of the Buddha.

The stupa’s unique ‘bubblehead’ shape, different from the later hemispherical designs, adds to its architectural significance. Surrounding the central dome are several concentric rows of intricately carved stone pillars, believed to have once supported a circular roof. These pillars, with their ornate capitals, showcase the advanced stone craftsmanship of ancient Sri Lanka. Despite numerous renovations over the centuries, Thuparamaya retains its original charm and spiritual aura. The site also features a beautifully carved moonstone at its entrance, a characteristic element of Sinhalese architecture. As a cornerstone of Sri Lankan Buddhist history, Thuparamaya continues to be an important pilgrimage site and a testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage.

10. Abhayagiri Vihara: The Colossal Monastery

Location: Anuradhapura Built: 1st century BCE

This isn’t just a single building – it’s an entire monastic complex that once housed thousands of monks!

What’s Impressive:

• At its peak, it covered an area of 200 hectares.
• The main stupa was once over 100 meters tall.
• It showcases a mix of Sri Lankan, Indian, and Mahayana Buddhist architecture.

Fun Fact: The complex included advanced hot water bathing pools for the monks.

Abhayagiri Vihara, founded in the 1st century BCE, stands as a colossal testament to the grandeur of ancient Sri Lankan monastic architecture. Located in the sacred city of Anuradhapura, this vast complex once covered an area of 200 hectares, housing thousands of monks and serving as a center of Buddhist learning and culture. The centerpiece of the complex, the Abhayagiri Dagoba, originally soared to a height of 100 meters, rivaling the pyramids of Egypt.

The monastery was renowned for its eclectic approach, embracing various schools of Buddhist thought, which made it a melting pot of ideas and innovations. Archaeological excavations have revealed advanced urban planning, including sophisticated drainage systems and hot water baths. The site also boasts intricately carved moonstones, guard stones, and a unique 27-meter high Buddha statue carved from living rock. Despite being largely in ruins today, Abhayagiri Vihara continues to evoke awe with its sheer scale and historical significance, offering visitors a glimpse into the zenith of ancient Sri Lankan civilization.

Planning Your Visit to Sri Lanka’s Ancient Wonders

Now that we’ve piqued your interest, here are some tips for exploring these marvels:

1. Best Time to Visit: The dry season (December to March) is ideal for exploring ancient sites.
2. Getting Around: Consider hiring a driver or joining a tour to easily access these sites.
3. Dress Code: Remember to dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
4. Guides: Local guides can provide fascinating insights into the history and engineering of these wonders.
5. Photography: Bring a good camera – you’ll want to capture these incredible structures!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How old are these ancient wonders? A: Most of these structures were built between the 3rd century BCE and the 12th century CE, making them over 800 to 2,300 years old!

Q: Are these sites well-preserved? A: Many have undergone restoration work, but you can still see original elements in most sites.

Q: Can I climb Sigiriya Rock? A: Yes, visitors can climb to the top of Sigiriya. It’s a steep climb but well worth the effort for the views and historical significance.