The Cultural Triangle
Overview
There is a lot more to Sri Lanka than just beaches and tea plantations, the island has a history going back a few millennia.
In the Northcentral province, where the cities in which ancient kings resided, are now quieter small towns and villages. The old city Anuradhapura(m) in the north, Polonnaruwa to the Southeast, and Dambulla to the south form the three corners of the “Cultural Triangle”.
Dambulla is just under 3 hours driving distance from Bandaranaike International Airport, it is however recommended to take a break for the night if you arrive after 4.00 pm before driving long distances.
The driving time from Dambulla to Anuradhapura is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, from Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa is about 2 hours, and from Polonnaruwa to Dambulla is about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Within the triangle lies Sigiriya, the ancient rock fort, together with these three ancient cities, make up four of the eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the island.
If you have an interest in history, then do your interest justice and spend at least three days in the Cultural Triangle – a day for each city and you will not be disappointed. In addition to the heritage sites, there are other ancient sites, there is Minneria Reservoir close by, a reservoir that was built during the reign of the ancient kings and safaris are available to the reservoir where a large herd of elephants can be seen during the season. There are some fabulous resorts to stay within the Triangle and visiting the Triangle can fit easily into a choice of different itineraries on the island.
