We are not exaggerating when we say that everywhere you look in Sri Lanka is a sight to behold. The country is lively, colorful, interesting and makes for wonderful memories, no matter where in the island you are. The rich history of Sri Lanka is only part of this appeal, but it is one that deserves endless admiration and praise. The Sinhala monarch and the dynasties ruled the beautiful nation for many centuries before finally coming to an end in 1815 with the fall of the Kingdom of Kandy, but the ancient ruins of the once gloriously formidable kingdoms still stand strong emanating a sense of timeless pride.
Here are some of the main kingdoms that you should visit to enlighten yourself on the history and culture of Sri Lanka. It will help you gain a better understanding of the country’s present, as well as enrich you with more knowledge, keener perspective and greater self growth. The fact that these are amazing places to explore and take photos of is just an added bonus!
The Kingdom of Thambapanni:
The very first of Sri Lankan kingdoms, Thambapanni set the country out for a brilliant start. It may come as a shock, but this is also the same area that is presently known as Mannar, in general. It existed between 543 BC and 437 BC. The Kingdom was founded by Prince Vijaya and the rest of his Aryan followers, upon coming to Sri Lanka from India. The name “Tambapaṇṇi” is derived from Tāmraparṇī or Tāmravarṇī (in Sanskrit), meaning the color of copper or bronze. Legend has it that when Vijaya landed in the country, he touched the ground and claimed it was bronze, thus giving the unique name. This was the beginning of the country’s civilization, and you can bask in the beauty of it when you visit Mannar, as you explore quaint villages, tranquil beaches, historic remnants and mesmerizing avifauna.
The Kingdom of Anuradhapura:
Inarguably, the most famous of the ancient kingdoms, Anuradhapura was the first official and established dynasty of Sri Lanka, and was founded by King Pandukhabaya in 377BC. Heavily influenced by Buddhist values, Anuradhapura was a strong kingdom of which the power was extended to, throughout the whole nation. The ruler of the kingdom was generally accepted to be more supreme than anyone else. The reign in Anuradhapura led Sri Lanka to become more developed and technologically advanced as the kings built unbelievable irrigation systems, impressive architecture, breathtaking religious sites, as well as close-knit self-sufficient communities. Just entering the ancient city of Anuradhapura after all these centuries, feels strangely like stepping back in time, as you get surrounded by dagobas, lakes, statues, sculptures and historic artifacts. The city was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1982.
The Kingdom of Polonnaruwa:
After ruling the country for over 1400 years, the reign at Anuradhapura came to an end in 1017AD, paving way for Polonnaruwa’s time to thrive and shine. The city is situated on the left bank of River Mahaweli. Archeological evidence and accounts in chronicles suggests that the city is as old as Anuradhapura, which becomes more apparent when you see it for yourself (as you should!) The architecture, the religious values, the cultural beliefs and ethics are quite similar to that of Anuradhapura, even in the modern day society. Among the best tourist attractions of Polonnaruwa are the Parakrama Samudraya, Gal Vihayara, Vatadage, Kiri Vihara and Nissankalatha Mandapaya. It joined the World Heritage Sites list in 1982 as well.
The Kingdom of Dambadeniya:
The Kingdom of Dambadeniya was a medieval kingdom of which the rulers reigned from 1220–1345. It was a change in the centre of power in Sri Lanka, as the kingdom shifted from the North Central Province to Wayamba (North Western). It was selected as the capital of the kingdom of Sri Lanka by King Vijayabahu III, who built fortifications, sturdy walls, gates and a rather impressive palace, at the summit of the Dambadeniya rock. The city was made secure by a moat, a marsh and ramparts around the royal palace. This was the period in which the Sinhala literature thrived, and expanded into much more than scriptures and paintings. The cultural aspect of the country grew leaps and bounds thanks to King Parakramabahu II, who contributed immensely to the arts. For those who want to explore hidden ruins, discover fascinating architecture and marvel at how far we’ve come, Dambadeniya presents great opportunities.
Kingdom of Gampola:
Largely unheard of by many who visit Sri Lanka, overlooked by most is the ancient kingdom of Gampola. It was made the capital of the country by King Buwanekabahu IV, who ruled for four years in the mid fourteenth century. Although, you probably wouldn’t target Gampola as the main destination of your trip, it should be on your list if you’re visiting Kandy. The longest sleeping Buddha statue in South Asia is located in the Saliyalapura Temple, Gampola.
Kingdom of Kotte:
A kingdom right in the vicinity of dear old familiar Colombo? That’s right. At its height, the kingdom of Kotte was one of the strongest the country had known, and flourished in the 15th century. In 1419, King Parkramabahu VI succeeded in subjugating the Jaffna Kingdom and ruled over a united island, becoming the last native ruler of the Sinhala dynasty. The best part about exploring this kingdom might be that you get to compare the urbanization of modern day’s Colombo city to the historic remnants of the Kotte Kingdom. Take a few hours of your city walks to visit the Baddagana Wherakada Ruins, Alakesvara Palace Compound and the The Kabok Tunnel.
The Kingdom of Sitawaka:
Sitawaka is what is presently known as Avissawella and is located in south-central Sri Lanka. It emerged from the division of the Kingdom of Kotte following the Spoiling of Vijayabahu in 1521. Over the course of the next seventy years it came to dominate much of the island, fierce resistance to the Portuguese, who had arrived on the island in 1505. Despite its military successes, Sitawaka remained unstable, and disintegrated soon after the death of its last king Rajasimha I in 1593, making Kandy the next in line to rule the country. Unlike most other kingdoms, Seetawaka doesn’t present you with many archeologically or historically important sites or ruins, but offers a lot of fun as it has a great botanic garden as well as a water leisure park.
Kingdom of Kandy:
The third of the corners of the cultural triangle (along with Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa), Kandy is a favorite among the locals and the tourists. It is a land where the time stays still, and the world slows down. The charming, regal and gorgeous town was the last of the Sinhala dynasties before the British took over in 1815, and definitely losing power in 1817. It was an independent monarchy, that had the advantage of being located in the highlands, safe and secure from potential threats, enemies and danger. Even to this day, Kandy remains one of the most scenic areas of the country, owing to the lush vegetation, bright flowers, a town centered around a lake, the famous Dalaga Maligaya and a unique subculture of its own.
Photos sourced from Amila Tennakoon, Dhananjaya Chathuranga
