4 Enchanting Sites That Are Must-Visit in Ancient Cities of Sri Lanka

Summary- Crumbling temples, ruins, exotic history and sacred Buddhist sites are the main attractions that lure visitors. Once an epitome of opulence, these kingdoms fell slowly only to be reclaimed by the jungles. Read on to know what these cities have in store for you.

For more than a century, Sri Lanka has remained a question of fascination. This overgrown landscape has always attracted thousands of visitors and archeologists alike. The many layers of history have slowly been unfurled, only to present a glorious time that the country had seen once.

Almost seem like another lifetime; there are multiple ruins and forts from the bygone eras that still standing to tell the tales of the past era through their refined carvings, monuments and national treasures.  The country is home to plenty of UNESCO World Heritage Sites with the infamous ‘The Cultural Triangle’ the major highlight. If you have applied for Sri Lanka ETA visa then have a look at the places you must visit in the ancient cities:

1.       Abhayagiri Monastery- One of the greatest structures of the ancient times located in Anuradhapura, this colossal Dagoba was the epicenter of the 5000-strong Abhyagiri Monastery, which means ‘Hill of Protection’. Dating back to the 1^ST century BC, the Dagoba stands 100 meter high and its scale is only matched by the pyramids of Giza. The monument underwent several reconstructions and now soars 75 meters above the forest floor. You can find stunning views of the forest from this brick monument.

2.       Quadrangle- Royal Palace ruins are located in the location of Polonnaruwa and the area is called Quadrangle. It is a compact group of ruins erected on a raised up area which is further bounded by a wall. A spectacular display of ancient architecture, it is the most concentrated collection of buildings, one can ever find in the Ancient cities.

3.       Gal Vihara- Located in Polonnaruwa, the site is popular for a collection of gorgeous Buddha images that is perhaps the most extravagant exemplary of Sinhalese rock carving. Part of Prakramabahu I`s northern monastery, what makes these carvings extra-ordinary is that they are all cut from one long slab of granite. The Gal Vihara consists of four separate images with one reclining Buddha and each of them were enshrined within a separate enclosure. If you love history, you must visit here. Apply for SriLanka ETA visa and ensure your visit to this amazing place in Polonnaruwa.

4.       Yapahuwa Rock Fortress- Exhibiting the spectacular ornamental staircase, the best thing about the Yapahuwa Rock Fortress is its finest craftsmanship. These stairs once led to the Temple of the Tooth. The arcades are adorned with gorgeous pierced-stone windows that are further punctuated with intricate details. One of these windows is in the National Museum in Colombo.

Apart from the beaches that make Sri Lanka more famous, there are plenty of ancient sites that are equally stunning and intriguing. Whether you are a history buff or not, the ancient cities of Sri Lanka will never cease to fascinate you. If you haven`t applied for Sri Lanka ETA visa, do it now because the country will surprise you in many ways. To apply for visa, visit sri-lankaeta.com now!