The Archaeology of Polonnaruwa: A Journey Through Sri Lanka’s Medieval Capital-by Kalani-eLanka Polonnaruwa, a city steeped in history and archaeological significance, served as the second capital of Sri Lanka after the fall of Anuradhapura in 993 AD. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, is renowned for its well-preserved ruins of ancient structures and monuments that reflect the grandeur and architectural prowess of the medieval Sinhalese civilization. Polonnaruwa’s rise to prominence began in the 10th century AD, during the reign of the Chola dynasty. However, it was under King Vijayabahu I (1055-1110 AD) that Polonnaruwa became the capital of the Sinhalese kingdom, following the liberation from Chola rule. The city reached its zenith under King Parakramabahu I (1153-1186 AD), whose reign marked a period of extensive construction and development. 1. Royal Palace Complex The Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu I is one of ...
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World’s End: The Stunning Abyss of Nuwara Eliya-by Kalani-eLanka The heart of Sri Lanka’s central highlands, World’s End is a breathtaking sheer cliff located within the Horton Plains National Park in Nuwara Eliya. This dramatic drop, which plunges nearly 880 meters (2,887 feet), offers one of the most spectacular views in Sri Lanka, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Reaching World’s End is an adventure in itself. The trek begins at the Horton Plains entrance, where visitors embark on a 9.5 km (6 miles) loop trail. The path winds through lush grasslands, cloud forests, and scenic landscapes. The hike is moderate in difficulty, taking around 3-4 hours to complete. Along the way, hikers can spot diverse wildlife, including sambar deer, purple-faced langurs, and various bird species endemic to the region. The best time to visit World’s End is in the early morning, ideally before 10:00 AM. ...
Yapahuwa: Unveiling the Ancient Majesty of Sri Lanka’s Forgotten Capital – By Bhanuka – eLanka Sri Lanka, a country adorned with historical gems, boasts an illustrious past that echoes through its ancient sites. One such treasure is Yapahuwa, a majestic rock fortress situated in the North Western Province. In this article, we embark on a journey to explore the rich history and unique features that make Yapahuwa a cultural and architectural marvel. 1. Historical Significance: Yapahuwa served as the capital of Sri Lanka for a brief but pivotal period in its history. Established in the 13th century by King Buwanekabahu I, it became the seat of political power and a symbol of strength during a time of political upheaval. 2. Architectural Marvel: The rock fortress of Yapahuwa stands proudly on a massive granite rock, showcasing the architectural prowess of the ancient Sri Lankan builders. The site features a stunning array ...
“Lion City” – ‘Isle at the end of the peninsula’ – By Arundathie Abeysinghe – Part IV Image Source : 7continents1passport. Sentosa Island Globally renowned Sentosa Island is Asia’s leading leisure destination and Singapore’s premier island resort getaway, a vibrant island resort for business and leisure. Located within 15 minutes from the central business and shopping districts, the island resort is situated off Singapore’s southern coast, connected to the city by road, cable car, pedestrian boardwalk as well as monorail. 500-hectare island resort is home to an exciting array of themed attractions including golden sandy beaches, resort accommodations, world-renowned golf courses, lush rainforests, a deep-water yachting marina and luxurious residences. Sentosa is also home to Singapore’s first integrated resort, Resorts World Sentosa that operates Southeast Asia’s first Universal Studios theme park. Situated on the eastern end of Sentosa Island is Sentosa Cove, an exclusive waterfront residential enclave bustling with more than ...
Galle Fort: A Timeless Journey into Sri Lanka’s Rich History and Coastal Charms – by Bhanuka – eLanka Nestled on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, Galle Fort stands as a living testament to the island’s rich history and vibrant culture. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its cobblestone streets, Dutch colonial architecture, and captivating coastal views, offers travelers a unique blend of historical grandeur and seaside tranquility. Join us as we embark on a journey to explore Galle Fort, uncover its centuries-old stories, and savor the beauty of its coastal setting. A Glimpse into History: Galle Fort’s origins date back to the 16th century when it was established by the Portuguese and later fortified by the Dutch. Discover the historical significance of this well-preserved fortress and the stories it holds within its walls. Colonial Architecture: The Dutch influence is visible in the architecture of Galle Fort. Wander through the ...
A remote village located in Knuckles Mountain Range of Sri Lanka ‘ Meemure ‘ – By Malsha – eLanka Meemure is a remote village located in the Knuckles Mountain Range of Sri Lanka. It is known for its natural beauty, traditional lifestyle, and cultural heritage. Meemure is situated in the Kandy District, approximately 180 kilometers away from Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka. Due to its isolated location, Meemure has retained its traditional way of life, and it provides a glimpse into the rural and indigenous lifestyle of Sri Lanka. The village is surrounded by lush green mountains, waterfalls, rivers, and forests, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. To reach Meemure, visitors usually have to travel through rough terrain, which adds to the adventurous nature of the journey. The village is accessible by a four-wheel-drive vehicle or by trekking through the scenic landscapes. It’s ...
Popular tourist destination located in Galle District Sri Lanka ‘ Bentota ‘ – By Malsha – eLanka Kande Vihara Temple benthota Bentota is a popular tourist destination located in the southwestern coastal region of Sri Lanka. It is a coastal town situated in the Galle District of the Southern Province. Bentota is known for its stunning beaches, water sports activities, and scenic beauty. The main attraction of Bentota is its pristine golden sandy beach, which stretches for several kilometers along the coastline. The beach offers opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation. The calm waters of the Bentota River, which flows into the sea, also provide options for various water sports such as jet skiing, windsurfing, snorkeling, and boat rides. One of the key attractions in Bentota is the Bentota River safari. Travelers can take a boat ride along the river, passing through mangrove forests, and explore the rich biodiversity of ...
A tropical rainforest located in Sri Lanka ‘ Sinharaja Rainforest ‘ – By Malsha – eLanka Sinharaja Rainforest is a tropical rainforest located in southwestern Sri Lanka. It is one of the country’s most important natural landmarks and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The name “Sinharaja” translates to “Lion Kingdom” in Sinhalese, indicating its historical significance and its role as a protected habitat for wildlife. Here are some key features and facts about Sinharaja Rainforest: Biodiversity: Sinharaja Rainforest is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity. It is home to a wide array of flora and fauna, including many endemic species found only in Sri Lanka. The forest is a haven for numerous birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Flora: The rainforest is characterized by its dense vegetation, with towering trees reaching heights of over 40 meters (130 feet). It boasts over 240 species of trees, many of ...
A UNESCO World Heritage Site “ Galle Fort ” – By Malsha – eLanka Galle Fort is a historic fortified city located in the southern coast of Sri Lanka, in the city of Galle. It was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, later fortified by the Dutch during the 17th century, and it remains one of the best examples of a fortified city built by European colonial powers in South and Southeast Asia. Today, Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination, known for its picturesque cobblestone streets, colonial-era buildings, museums, art galleries, boutique shops, and restaurants. It is also home to the famous Galle International Cricket Stadium, which is one of the oldest cricket grounds in the world. History of Galle Fort The history of Galle Fort dates back to the early 16th century when the Portuguese arrived in Sri Lanka. ...
The ‘Lion Fortress’ of Sri Lanka was swallowed by the jungle Source : thearchaeologist Built in the fifth century, Sri Lanka’s Sigiriya fortress attracted the attention of British archaeologists in the 1800s, who were amazed by its leonine rock art and beautiful frescoes. Perched on a slab of rock that juts dramatically over the forests of central Sri Lanka, Sigiriya is as imposing a sight now as it must have been when it was first built by a fierce king in the fifth century A.D. Meaning “lion’s rock,” Sigiriya (designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1982) is accessed by way of passageways cut into the rock face between a monumental pair of lion paws. The fortress was later swallowed by the forest, and only familiar to local villagers. Outsiders used knowledge of its past, preserved in Buddhist texts, to search for the ancient site. British historians rediscovered its astonishing buildings ...
