Anuradhapura, is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, famous for its well-preserved ruins of ancient Lankan civilization. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the 4th century BC, it was the capital of Sri Lanka until the beginning of the 11th century AD. During this period it remained one of the most stable and durable centres of political power and urban life in South Asia. The ancient city, considered sacred to the Buddhist world, is today surrounded by monasteries covering an area of over 16 sq miles (40 km).
Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms, was declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I. Today the ancient city of Polonnaruwa remains one of the best planned archaeological relic sites in the country, standing testimony to the discipline and greatness of the Kingdom's first rulers. The ancient city of Polonnaruwa is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sigiriya (Lion's rock) is an ancient rock fortress and palace ruin surrounded by the remains of an extensive network of gardens, reservoirs, and other structures. It is also renowned for its ancient paintings. The Sigiriya fortress was built during the reign of King Kassapa I (AD 477 - 495) and is one of the World Heritage Sites of Sri Lanka.
Dambulla is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. The rock towers 160 m over the surrounding plains. There are more than 80 documented caves in the surrounding area. Major attractions are spread over 5 caves, which contain statues and paintings. These paintings and statues are related to Lord Buddha and his life. There are total of 153 Buddha statues, 3 statues of Sri Lankan kings and 4 statues of gods and goddesses.
Kandy was the last capital of the ancient kings' era of Sri Lanka. The city lies in the midst of hills in the centre of Sri Lanka. Kandy is one of the most scenic cities in Sri Lanka; it is both an administrative and religious city. Kandy is the home of The Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), one of the most venerable places for the Buddhist community of Sri Lanka and all around the world. It was declared by the UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.