Sri Lanka Culture

The island of Sri Lanka has no fewer than seven cultural UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  Undoubtedly the most visually impressive among them is Sigiriya.  The ruins of a fifth-century royal citadel, complete with swimming pool, top this this lone giant rock surrounded by jungle.  At nearby Dambulla, a shorter climb rewards you with the sight of a hundreds of golden Buddha statues set in richly frescoed caves.  Kandy 50km south is home to the revered Temple of the Tooth, and the beautifully carved ruins of the medieval capital, Polonnaruwa, where there is an important triology of giant Buddhas. Other highlights further afield include Galle and the religiously significant Anuradhapura and Mihintale, where sights include a tree said to have originated from one under which Buddha received enlightenment.