Sri Lanka is a small island nation located in the Indian Ocean, and it is a treasure trove of history and culture. From ancient cities and temples to colonial forts and palaces, there are countless historical sites to explore in Sri Lanka. Here are the top 10 best historical places to visit in Sri Lanka:
- Sigiriya:
This ancient fortress is located in the central province of Matale, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Sri Lanka. The fortress was built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century AD, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. Anuradhapura:
This ancient city was the capital of Sri Lanka from the 4th century BC to the 11th century AD, and it is home to many important historical sites, including the Ruwanwelisaya, the Jetavanarama, and the Abhayagiriya.
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3. Polonnaruwa:
This ancient city was the capital of Sri Lanka from the 11th century AD to the 13th century AD, and it is home to many important historical sites, including the Parakrama Samudra, the Gal Vihara, and the Lankatilaka.
4. Kandy:
This city is located in the central province of Kandy, and it is home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most sacred Buddhist shrines in the world. The city is also home to many other important historical sites, including the Royal Palace of Kandy and the Udawattakele Forest Reserve.
5. Galle:
This coastal city is located in the southern province of Galle, and it is home to the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fort was built by the Dutch in the 17th century, and it is one of the best-preserved colonial fortifications in Asia.
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6. Dambulla:
This ancient cave temple is located in the central province of Matale, and it is home to many important historical sites, including the Dambulla Cave Temple, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and the Pidurangala Rock Temple.
7. Yapahuwa:
This ancient city is located in the northwestern province of Kurunegala, and it is home to the Yapahuwa Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fortress was built by King Buwanekabahu I in the 13th century AD, and it is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in Sri Lanka.
8. Ella:
This small town is located in the central part of the island and is known for its picturesque setting, surrounded by mountains and tea plantations. The town is home to the Nine Arches Bridge, a famous railway bridge that spans a deep gorge.
9. Trincomalee:
This coastal city is located in the northeastern province of Trincomalee, and it is home to many important historical sites, including the Koneswaram Temple, the Fort Frederick, and the Nilaveli Beach.
10. Jaffna:
This city is located in the northern province of Jaffna, and it is home to many important historical sites, including the Jaffna Fort, the Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, and the Jaffna Library.
These are the top 10 best historical places to visit in Sri Lanka. Each place has its own unique history and culture, and they are all worth visiting for anyone interested in the history and culture of Sri Lanka.