Sri Lanka is a tropical nation that entices travelers with its lush landscapes, stunning beaches, and historic wonders. The teardrop-shaped island appears like a southern extension of the Indian peninsula, consisting of never-ending shorelines, central highlands, and plains. The dynamic geography of this shimmering country harbors a variety of adventures featuring a blend of natural beauty and antiquities. The eight exceptional UNESCO world heritage sites in Sri Lanka are noteworthy inspirations behind numerous journeys to this Jewel of the East. If you desire to learn all about these marvelous creations, continue reading to the bottom.
8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka
From ancient cities to massive fortresses and lush green forest reserves, here are the 8 UNESCO world heritage sites in Sri Lanka:
1. Historic City of Polonnaruwa
The historic city of Polonnaruwa served as the second capital of this tropical paradise soon after the destruction of Anuradhapura in 993. It is an archaeological relic site consisting of, in addition to the Brahmanic monuments constructed by the Cholas, the monumental ruins of the marvelous garden city created by Parakramabahu I in the 12th century.
During the ancient era, the city was governed by King Vijayabahu who ensured the minimal wastage of rainwater, contributing to an efficient irrigation system that is still used today to supply paddy fields with water during scarcity. This ancient city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982. The historic royal bath and pool are the main attractions here.
Location: W2W2 94G, Sudarshanarama Puranagama Rd, Polonnaruwa, Sri LankaTimings: 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.Entry fee: INR 500
2. Historic City of Sigiriya
Another UNESCO world heritage site in Sri Lanka, the Historic City of Sigiriya is about 25 km from Dambulla. The catastrophic city belongs to the fifth century and resonates with glorious tales of the past with its extensive grandeur including gardens, reflecting walls, a monastery, and more.
The Lion Rock, a massive granite formation rising 200 m high, adorned with paintings, is the main attraction among tourists, along with the Maidens of the Clouds and the remains of the royal palace. The ancient city predates the archaeological evidence from approximately the third century BC and was designated as a heritage site in 1982.
Location: Central Province, Sri LankaOperating hours: All dayAdmission fee: INR 1800
3. Holy City of Anuradhapura
If you desire to catch a glimpse of the well-preserved remains of the ancient Sinhalese civilization, Anuradhapura, the former capital, is an exemplary city founded by Sanghamitta. This city, which served as the hub of Theravada Buddhism for centuries, has now become one of Sri Lanka’s most popular UNESCO world heritage sites.
The remnants of the city’s marvels rest beside the banks of the Malvathu River, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Due to political unrest in the region in 993, this magnificent capital of Ceylonese politics was abandoned.
Location: Anuradhapura, city, north-central Sri LankaOperating hours: All dayAdmission fee: INR 200
4. Holy City of Kandy
Senkadagalapura, also recognized as the Holy City of Kandy, holds sacred significance for Buddhists and served as the final capital of the Sinhalese monarchy. It is the place where the Dinahala culture thrived for nearly 2,500 years until the British occupied the country in 1815.
Home to the magnificent Temple of the Tooth Relic, this destination welcomes visitors from around the globe throughout the year. This prominent site was deemed a UNESCO world heritage site in 1988. The holy city also hosts an annual procession featuring a midnight parade with hundreds of elephants and thousands of drummers, dancers, and other musicians.
Location: 7JVR G7V, Kandy, Sri LankaOperating hours: 5:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.Admission fee: INR 400
5. Sinharaja Forest Reserve
Sri Lanka houses 22 national parks, of which the Sinharaja Forest Reserve captures the hearts of explorers. This hotspot of biodiversity is a Biosphere Reserve that boasts the most undisturbed rainforests in the country.
Sinharaja, an indigenous term meaning the king of lions, stands as the final viable primary tropical rainforest within the country. The forest reserve provides a habitat for endangered species and is home to 75% of the country’s endemic mammals, as well as 150 genera of birds and 19 varieties of freshwater fish. It is considered one of Sri Lanka’s top UNESCO World Heritage sites, attracting wildlife enthusiasts from both near and far.
Location: Rathnapura District, Sri LankaTimings: 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.Entry fee: INR 720
6. Old Town of Galle and its Fortifications
Located approximately 100 km from Colombo, the Old Town of Galle is a fortified city that was established by the Europeans. The town exudes a relaxed atmosphere, showcasing a blend of European architecture and South Asian traditions. This old-world charm caught the attention of the world in 1988 when it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka.
Although the Bay of Galle has existed since 545 CE, it has retained its significance over the centuries and was the busiest port in Sri Lanka during the 14th century. In the early 16th century, the Portuguese established a trading post here, along with a compact fort featuring ramparts. Later on, the Dutch assumed control of the site and transformed it into a formidable fortress.
Location: Galle, Sri LankaTimings: Throughout the dayEntry fee: INR 300
7. Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple
Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple is a respected pilgrimage and is considered among the most conserved cave temple complexes. Housing five sanctuaries, you can observe remarkable Buddhist mural paintings and sculptures.
The location has remained inhabited since the 3rd century and has developed into popular Buddhist complexes over the previous decades. Being a distinguished UNESCO world heritage site in Sri Lanka, the temple is maintained by the Asgiriya Chapter of Buddhist monks.
Place: Dambulla, Matale District, Sri LankaOperating hours: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.Admission fee: INR 400
8. Central Highlands of Sri Lanka
The Central Highlands of Sri Lanka are renowned for magnificent biodiversity and showcase an abundance of foliage and endemism. The Highlands have recently been included in the list of UNESCO world heritage sites in Sri Lanka. Approximately 34% of the country’s exclusive trees, shrubs, and herbs are located here. The topography presents a variety of orchids, mosses, and many more, along with Montane rainforest trees.
Place: South-central part of the islandOperating hours: Throughout the dayAdmission fee: INR 30 for a day visit and INR 60 for an overnight visit.
Further Reading: 10 Hatton Restaurants You Must Dine At On Your Sri Lanka Vacation
The UNESCO world heritage sites in Sri Lanka symbolize revelations that provide you with a comprehensive understanding of Sri Lanka’s history, culture, beliefs, and sociopolitical development. You can plan to unravel the astonishing facts of these sites by planning your future journey to Sri Lanka with Fred and Fuzzys and enjoy a vacation like never before.
For our editorial guidelines and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Frequently Asked Questions About UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka
How many UNESCO world heritage sites exist in Sri Lanka?
The total count of world heritage sites in Sri Lanka is 8.
What are the top destinations to explore in Sri Lanka?
The following locations are recommended for exploration in Sri Lanka – Dambulla Cave Temple, Yala National Park, Arugam Bay, Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, Galle, Jaffna, Temple Of Tooth, Nuwara Eliya, and more.
How can one reach Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple?
To reach Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple, you have the options of taking a bus, taxi, or cab from Colombo.
Are there any heritage sites near Galle?
Certainly, the Old Town of Galle and its fortification is one of the eight UNESCO world heritage sites in Sri Lanka.
People Also Read:
Heritage Sites in Thailand Heritage Sites in Singapore Heritage Sites in Nepal
