Polonnaruwa Sri Lanka, North Central Province

With a rich architectural heritage and a past teeming with historical significance, Polonnaruwa, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka, is a perfect destination for those wishing to explore some breathtaking sights. On the backdrop of lush green hills, palm trees, and endless blue skies, the scenery of Polonnaruwa adds dramatic contrast to the centuries-old ruins that will take your breath away.

Discover hundreds of ancient ruins dating back to the early 12th century when Polonnaruwa was a bustling metropolis and a central hub for both religion and commerce for northern Sri Lanka. This heritage site is so well preserved that it’s easy to picture what the city would have looked like 800 years ago. And now that it’s protected by UNESCO, you can be sure that it will stay in pristine condition.

Polonnaruwa’s new town serves as the perfect base to explore the ancient grounds of the old city as well as peruse the surrounding National Parks filled with elephants. You can find a large selection of comfortable accommodations in town, and you can either hire a tuk-tuk or rent bikes in order to get around. Visit monasteries with impressive buddha statues, intricate temples, and wood-carving factories before taking in the beautiful landscapes in and around Polonnaruwa.

Once you're done exploring the architectural phenomenon of the area, then strap on some boots and head for a hike on one of the many scenic trails in and around Polonnaruwa. And when you get back, don’t forget to taste some of the delicious local cuisines in one of the restaurants in the new town.