The Ancient Cities
Crumbling temples, lost cities and sacred Buddhist sites are the reason to head up country to the cultural heartland of Sri Lanka. It was here on the central plains that ancient Sinhalese dynasties set up their first capitals and supported massive artistic and architectural endeavors. Eventually these kingdoms fell, slowly to be reclaimed by the forest and jungles.
Cristi Popescu/Shutterstock
Dreaming of The Ancient Cities? Protect your trip
Travel with confidence. Protect your trip and your wallet.
We don’t represent World Nomads, we receive a fee from quotes using this link. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
Book your Sri Lanka trip with Lonely Planet Journeys
See Sri Lanka how it's meant to be seen
Accommodations, activities and ground transportation all taken care of, so you can focus on the fun part. Tell us what your dream trip to Sri Lanka looks like, and our local experts will build it from scratch. Or start with one of our itineraries and make it your own.
Top places to visit in The Ancient Cities
Discover the best attractions in The Ancient Cities from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.
in partnership with getyourguide
Book popular activities in The Ancient Cities
Lonely Planet may earn a commission from affiliate links on our site. All recommendations and reviews reflect our own independent opinions.
