Central Province

Historical sites in Central Province

Sri Lanka's Historic Treasures

Discover the archaeological heart of Sri Lanka, spanning from prehistoric settlements to the final royal kingdom. This collection features the iconic 5th-century Sigiriya rock fortress, the megalithic burial grounds of Ibbankatuwa, and the medieval Royal Palace of Kandy. The list highlights diverse historical layers, including the 30,000-year-old Beli-Lena caves, secluded forest monasteries like Menikdena and Kalu Diya Pokuna, and specialized museums dedicated to Buddhist heritage and the island's royal history.

Sri Lanka's Historic Treasures — Map

Venkasub / CC BY-SA 3.0

A

Sigiriya

Sigiriya or Sinhagiri is an ancient rock fortress located in the northern Matale District near the town of Dambulla in the Central Province…

Simona Pecková / CC-BY-SA

B

Pidurangala

A massive rock formation adjacent to Sigiriya that served as a Buddhist monastery. It contains a reclining Buddha statue and provided a retreat for monks during the 5th-century reign of King Kasyapa.

Michael Gunther / CC BY-SA 4.0

C

Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs

The Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs is an ancient burial site located near Ibbankatuwa Wewa in Galewela DS, Sri Lanka.

Ji-Elle / CC BY-SA 3.0

D

Pidurangala Vihara

Pidurangala Vihara is an ancient Buddhist temple situated in Pidurangala village of Matale District, Sri Lanka.

Anuradha Dullewe Wijeyeratne,168 / 7,… / CC BY-SA 4.0

E

Raja

Raja was a Sri Lankan tusker elephant belonging to the Sri Dalada Maligawa, Kandy.

Balou46 / CC BY-SA 3.0

F

International Buddhist Museum

International Buddhist Museum is the world's first International Buddhist Museum.

G

National Museum of Kandy

The National Museum of Kandy in Kandy, Sri Lanka is located next to the Temple of the Tooth in part of the former Royal Palace of Kandy.

Ji-Elle / CC BY-SA 3.0

H

Royal Palace Complex of Kandy

The Royal Palace of Kandy, situated in Kandy, Sri Lanka, is a historical complex that served as the official residence for the monarchs of…

I

Sigiriya Museum

An archaeological museum showcasing artifacts found at the Sigiriya site. Exhibits include a detailed model of the rock fortress, ancient hydraulic systems, and 5th-century frescoes.

J

Beli-Lena Caves

A significant prehistoric cave site where archaeologists discovered the skeletal remains of 'Balangoda Man,' providing evidence of human habitation in Sri Lanka dating back 30,000 years.

K

Menikdena Archeological Reserve

A monastic complex dating from the 8th to 10th centuries. The reserve contains the ruins of a stupa, an image house, and stone pillars that once supported residential quarters for monks.

L

Kalu diya pokuna

The ruins of a 10th-century forest monastery centered around a dark pond. The site features stone structures, caves with drip-ledges for monks, and ancient inscriptions.

Other Lists

Central Province Essentials Hidden Statues & Monuments Natural Wonders Sacred Sites of Kandy