Sri Lanka is home to an ancient and complex civilization with a recorded history extending back over two millennia. This civilization accomplished great feats, from the construction of ancient cities to irrigation systems that are still in use today. The sheer depth of Sri Lanka's cultural heritage is recognized by UNESCO, which declared six archaeological World Heritage sites in the country. From enormous dome-shaped relics of Buddhist temples to the ruins of ancient cities and statues in Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, to the towering stairways leading to the Golden Dambulla Temple, and the sensual frescoes of heavenly maidens adorning the regal rock-fortress carved into the mountain of Sigiriya, yours truly have been fortunate enough to marvel at all of these, and also many other sites ensconced within a small area known as Sri Lanka's cultural triangle.
I find it quite strange that a fair percentage of travelers who have voiced their opinions in various travel forums, didn't find the sacred city of Anuradhapura worthy enough for their time spent, and some of them have also suggested to visit Polonnaruwa instead. Analyzing their reviews make me wonder if they were trying to find Seychelles in Sri Lanka! Among all rural to urban places I have explored in Sri Lanka, if I have to pick a single destination that can quench the historical, cultural and spiritual thirst of a sensible traveler, my indubitable recommendation would be Anuradhapura. In this blog I'll give you unbiased glimpses of this sacred city, so that you can decide for yourself whether Anuradhapura should find a place in your Sri Lankan backpacking itinerary.
I find it quite strange that a fair percentage of travelers who have voiced their opinions in various travel forums, didn't find the sacred city of Anuradhapura worthy enough for their time spent, and some of them have also suggested to visit Polonnaruwa instead. Analyzing their reviews make me wonder if they were trying to find Seychelles in Sri Lanka! Among all rural to urban places I have explored in Sri Lanka, if I have to pick a single destination that can quench the historical, cultural and spiritual thirst of a sensible traveler, my indubitable recommendation would be Anuradhapura. In this blog I'll give you unbiased glimpses of this sacred city, so that you can decide for yourself whether Anuradhapura should find a place in your Sri Lankan backpacking itinerary.