7 Most Famous Historical Monuments in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a unique island. This island is a hub of diverse subcontinents culture and traditional treasures. Sri Lanka is an iconic island and attracts many tourists worldwide. The tourists have a great opportunity to enjoy the scenic view and explore the forts filled with rich culture and ancient artwork.

Therefore, you can also do trekking, sightseeing and a lot more. If you want to know more about the most visited place in Sri Lanka, then stay tuned till the end of the article.

List of the 7 Most Popular Historical Monuments in Sri Lanka:

1. Quadrangle, Polonnaruwa

Tourists enjoy the rich collection of fine ancient buildings in Sri Lanka. Quadrangle is situated in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. The crafts on the wall of the popular buildings were done by the finest artworks of ancient times.

The detailed tradition depicted on the walls makes this place unique. The statue of Lord Buddha carved on the wall and surrounded by the ruins beautifies the place. The best part of the palaces is the pillars on which you will find the paintings of older times.

• Location: Polonnaruwa, North Central Province.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
• Key Highlights: Vatadage (circular relic house), Thuparama (Buddhist image house), and Lankathilaka (giant Buddha statue).
• Entry Fee: Included in the Polonnaruwa Archaeological Site ticket.
• Facilities: Restrooms and small shops are available near the site entrance.
• Tips: Hire a local guide for insightful historical context. Wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring plenty of water and sun protection. Bikes are available for rent to explore the wider area.

2. Nine Arch Bridge, Ella

Each one of us wants to have a train ride which covers the distance between the forests among the rolling hills, green valley, and lust tea plantation. Hence, the Nine Arch Bridge, situated in Ella will cover all your fantasies. This journey of this huge bridge will start from the Kandy and end at Ella.

You will not believe that this huge bridge was built in the early 20^th century. Nine Arch Bridge is also an excellent example of amazing engineering work. You will get to see the most adventurous and amazing views of the forest from this train.

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• Location: Demodara, between Ella and Demodara railway stations.
• Best Time to Visit: Morning for better lighting and fewer crowds.
• Key Highlights: Colonial-era architecture, and stunning views of the surrounding tea plantations.
• Entry Fee: Free to visit.
• Facilities: Few cafes and shops nearby.
• Tips: Check train schedules to capture the iconic image of a train crossing the bridge. Accessible via a short hike from Ella town. Consider taking a tuk-tuk for easy access to the viewpoint.

3. Galle Fort and Old Town, Galle

The forts present in the Galle describe Portuguese, Dutch, and British architecture. In earlier times, the Dutch reformed the whole church and gave the touch of Dutch art culture to it. They have also reformed some more buildings including the lighthouse.

The taste of Portuguese, Dutch, and British architecture in the older buildings of Sri Lanka attracts tourists from all over the world. These forts are surrounded by beautiful cafes to hang out.

• Location: Galle, Southern Province.
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with cooler evenings being ideal for walks.
• Key Highlights: Dutch Reformed Church, Galle Lighthouse, National Maritime Museum.
• Entry Fee: Free entry; some museums may have a small fee.
• Facilities: Numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops within the fort.
• Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes, and explore the fort’s narrow streets lined with cafes, boutiques, and art galleries. Stay at one of the boutique hotels within the fort for a unique experience.

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4. Cave Temples, Dambulla

You will be amazed after listening that this place has been a worship site since the 1^st century BC. Although UNESCO has also rated this site as a World Heritage site. The government of Sri Lanka has put much effort into preserving the monastery and maintaining the rich heritage of the cave monastery.

Devotees from all across the world come here to visit the famous 150 statues of Lord Buddha. However, the tourists are surprised when they come to know that these 150 statues took five centuries to get made completely.

• Location: Dambulla, Central Province.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon.
• Key Highlights: Five caves with ancient Buddhist murals and statues.
• Entry Fee: Approx. LKR 1500 (subject to change).
• Facilities: Restrooms and small shops at the base.
• Tips: Respect the dress code (cover shoulders and knees). The hike to the caves offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Consider visiting the nearby Sigiriya Rock Fortress for a combined cultural experience.

5. Abhayagiri Dagoba, Anuradhapura

If you want to explore the TerracotaDomed, then you have to find a way through the forest. Tourist enjoys the first view of the Abhayagiri Dagoba when they emerge from the forests. This place is also famous by the name of Pyramid of Gizza. The height of the AbhayagiriDagoba is 100 meters.

Although this Abhayagiri Dagoba was made in the earlier 1^st century. The beauty and the fine architecture of the Abhayagiri Dagoba are amazing. The peace and the mysterious story around the Abhayagiri Dagoba attract many tourists around it.

• Location: Anuradhapura, North Central Province.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon.
• Key Highlights: One of the largest stupas, an ancient monastic complex.
• Entry Fee: Included in the Anuradhapura Archaeological Site ticket.
• Facilities: Restrooms and small shops near the main attractions.
• Tips: Consider renting a bicycle or hiring a tuk-tuk to explore the vast archaeological site efficiently. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.

Read also: Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring Sri Lanka

6. Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Sigiriya

Sigiriya is full of rich culture and tradition. However, this place was built in 495 AD. The huge palaces made up of ancient rocks are the center of attraction for tourists. It is being said that these forts were made under the rule of Kind Kasyapa.

The emerald forest however surrounds these forts. Meanwhile, you can also explore the scenic beauty of the large part of Sigiriya from the viewpoint of some famous rocks Pidurangala Rock, and some more rocks situated on the opposite side of the Pidurangala Rock.

• Location: Sigiriya, Central Province.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds and heat.
• Key Highlights: Frescoes, Mirror Wall, Lion’s Gate, and panoramic views from the top.
• Entry Fee: Approx. USD 30 for foreigners.
• Facilities: Restrooms, cafes, and shops at the base.
• Tips: The climb can be strenuous; wear comfortable shoes and carry water. Be cautious of wasp nests along the trail. Consider hiring a guide for historical insights.

7. Gal Vihara Buddha Figures, Polonnaruwa

While Sri Lanka is full of ancient artwork, but Gal Vihara Buddha Figures situated in the Polonnaruwa are unique from all the other ancient crafts. Gal Vihara Buddha Figures consist of four figures made up of pure granite slab. These statues are carved on the rock by the famous art workers of ancient times.

The statues are of 7-meter-long in height while the posture of Lord Buddha is spread over an area of 14 meters. There are some religious stories attached to the place. This shrine attracts devotees from all around the world.

• Location: Polonnaruwa, North Central Province.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon.
• Key Highlights: Four large Buddha statues carved into a single granite rock face.
• Entry Fee: Included in the Polonnaruwa Archaeological Site ticket.
• Facilities: Restrooms and small shops nearby.
• Tips: Respect the sanctity of the site; remove shoes before entering. A guide can provide valuable historical insights. Combine this visit with other attractions in Polonnaruwa for a comprehensive tour.

Conclusion

Sri Lanka is an island of diverse cultures and rich heritage. Sri Lanka has everything for you no matter what your choice is.  It has pilgrims for the devotees, it has scenic beauty for nature lovers, it has trekking for the ones who love adventures, also has forts museums for the ones who want to explore. You will find very interesting and mysterious stories attached to the place. We hope you have found the useful information from the article written above.