by admin-unique | May 30, 2019 | Sri Lankan Cultural Sites
Unquestionably the cultural capital of the southern coast of Sri Lanka, Galle Fort is a World Heritage Site steeped in history dating back to the 16th century that is a must see when visiting the island.
The fort at Galle was first constructed by the Portuguese in 1588 and was then extensively fortified by the Dutch in the 17th century. Its colourful history portrays the major role Galle played in Sri Lanka’s past, being the main port on the island and as extension the main trading post for international merchants.
Today, Galle is the largest remaining fortress in the whole of Asia that was built by Europeans. Thanks to continuous reconstruction and restoration work by the Archaeological Department of Sri Lanka Galle Fort remains a magnificent example of European architecture fused with South Asian traditions and maintains its polished appearance.
by admin-unique | May 30, 2019 | Sri Lankan Cultural Sites
The stunning Temple of the Tooth in the ancient capital Kandy is a magnet for pilgrims and tourists alike. It is the most visited temple in the whole of Sri Lanka and is the only temple in the world with a tooth relic of Buddha himself.
Believed to house the tooth of the Buddha which was taken from him on his funeral pyre, the relic is of great importance to the many pilgrims who come to visit the shrine and has played a big role in the politics of the region with it being believed that those who hold the relic holds the governance.
When visiting Sri Lanka it is advised you take some time to sightsee in Kandy which is the ancient capital of the country, and take a Temple of the Tooth tour. The temple complex is one of the main reasons Kandy was awarded with World Heritage status.
by admin-unique | May 29, 2019 | Blog, Family Holidays, Family Holidays in Sri Lanka, Family Holidays to Sri Lanka, Family Tours in Sri Lanka, Family Tours to Sri Lanka, Sri Lankan Cultural Sites
A World Heritage site and treasure trove of historic relics, the ancient City of Polonnaruwa is among the best planned archaeological sites in Sri Lanka and is not to be missed during your Sri Lankan tour.
Polonnaruwa was declared the first city by King Vijayabahu in the 11th century, replacing Anuradhapurawhich had been left abandoned to the invading armies from India. The city reached its golden age during the reign of King Parakramabahu during the 12th century and much of the grandeur and awe-inspiring monuments erected during this time are still present to this day.
by admin-unique | May 28, 2019 | Sri Lankan Cultural Sites
Granted World Heritage status in 1991, taking a Dambulla cave temple tour is a highlight of any Sri Lanka trip with it being the largest and best conserved cave temple in Sri Lanka and renowned worldwide.
Soaring over 500 feet above the neighbouring lands, the main complex is comprised of five separate caves containing magnificent and vividly coloured statues and paintings of Buddha and past kings.
by admin-unique | May 28, 2019 | Sri Lankan Cultural Sites
Sri Lanka is renowned for her ancient ruins and point of culture, and a day spent sightseeing in Anuradhapura city is a great way to immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s history.
First established in the fourth century BC, the city of Anuradhapura is one the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, is among one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world and today is famous for its historic ruins, archaeological wonders and other points of interest.
Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, Anuradhapura contains a rich collection of ancient ruins and the remains of many monastic buildings – including the Brazen Palace which dates back to the second century BC.
by admin-unique | May 28, 2019 | Sri Lankan Cultural Sites
Being the most popular historic site in Sri Lanka, a tour of Sigiriya Rock Fortress is highly recommended. The ancient rock fortress is an imposing column of 650 feet tall rock which dominates the surrounding landscape.
Given its unique characteristics it is little wonder King Kasyapa selected the rock in the fifth century BC for the location of his new capital. The king built a palace on top of the rock and had the rock face ornamented with vivid frescoes which remain to this day.
Roughly half way up on your Sigiriya rock tour is the famous Lion Rock, a gateway fashioned in the form of a giant lion. Only the lion’s enormous paws remain intact to this day but their scale given some sense to the intimidating stature of the original gate which greeted visitors in centuries past!
Surrounding the rock fortress are the famous water and boulder gardens – believed to be among the most ancient landscaped gardens in the world and a magnet for visitors given their beauty and historic significance. Here is a great place to stop and relax before and after your tour up the rock fortress, taking in the beautiful kept garden flora and wildlife.
Recent Comments