Situated in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, Anuradhapura is an ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its extensive Buddhist heritage and archaeological remains. The city developed around Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree believed to have grown from a sapling brought from India more than 2,000 years ago. The surrounding ancient city contains an impressive collection of dagobas, monasteries, palaces and other monuments set among landscaped gardens and woodland. Many sites remain active places of worship and pilgrimage. Highlights include the enormous Abhayagiri Dagoba, the intricately decorated Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba, surrounded by a frieze of elephants, and Jetavanarama Dagoba, one of the largest ancient brick structures in the world. Visitors can explore the ruins and discover the history of one of Sri Lanka’s most important ancient cities.
Situated approximately 257 km north-east of Colombo, Trincomalee is a major port and resort city on Sri Lanka’s east coast, renowned for one of the world’s finest natural deep-water harbours. Its surrounding coastline is home to the sandy beaches of Nilaveli and Uppuveli, while nearby Pigeon Island National Park offers opportunities for snorkelling, diving and swimming. Whale watching is also a popular activity, particularly during the east coast’s seasonal period for marine wildlife. The city and surrounding Trincomalee District, historically known as Gokanna, are rich in cultural and historical sites, including ancient Buddhist ruins and the clifftop Koneswaram Temple. About 8 km from the city, the seven natural hot springs at Kanniya attract visitors to their warm, mineral-rich waters. Trincomalee combines beaches, marine activities, history and cultural attractions.
Sandwiched between the bustling capital of Colombo and the thriving city of Kandy in Sri Lanka's central highlands, the attractive town of Kegalle serves as the main commercial centre of the Kegalle District and the gateway to the naturally beautiful central hill-country. The town offers panoramic views of the lush rolling hills, which are dotted with an array of unusual temples - many of which have been built around natural caves. Other popular attractions in the area include the exquisite Algama Falls, which feature lovely natural swimming pools; the gorgeous Wewaladeniya Viharaya temple, located in the middle of town; a number of beautiful spice plantations; and the nearby village of Molagoda, which is renowned for its traditional clay-based handcrafts.
