Cultural Triangle Travel Guide

Introduction

Each side of the Cultural Triangle is roughly 80 miles in length, and within this perimeter is a huge area filled with a treasure trove of prehistoric, ancient, medieval and pre-colonial archaeological sites, of which the centrally-located Sigiriya and Dambulla are among the most popular. Kandy, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya and Dambulla are all UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The three points of the Cultural Triangle are the obvious places to base yourself for excursions within the cities or out of town. Kandy is the largest of the cities, and the capital of the hill country. The range of accommodations, restaurants, traditional performing arts and events is wider here, and there are more transportation options.

While the main draw cards of the Cultural Triangle and the UNSECO World Heritage Sites, there are plenty of other activities for visitors to the region. The shopping is first class, with lots of traditional markets and stalls complementing more modern shops and malls. Handicrafts, clothing, batik work, jewellery and gemstones are all good buys, but beware of phoney merchandise.

There are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation in the region. Trekking and mountain biking are very popular, and the Cultural Triangle is a perfect venue with its rolling hills, high mountains and spectacular valleys. Elephant safaris are also popular, while the national parks in the area are havens for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.