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The North Central Province of Sri Lanka (Sinhala: උතුරු මැද පළාත Uturumæda Paḷāta, Tamil: வட மத்திய மாகாணம் Wada Maththiya Mākāṇam) is home to some of the most significant cultural landmarks in the country. Consisting of two districts, travelers can expect to be captivated by its timeless beauty and deep cultural significance.
Top Destinations in North Central Province
Anuradhapura District
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Anuradhapura Ancient City: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and the first capital of ancient Sri Lanka. It is home to numerous stupas, monastic complexes, and the sacred Bodhi Tree, which is said to have grown from a sapling of the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment.
- Ruwanwelisaya Stupa: One of the most revered Buddhist monuments in Sri Lanka, the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa is an iconic structure within the Anuradhapura complex. It was built by King Dutugemunu and is known for its massive, white dome.
- Mihintale: Considered the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, Mihintale is a mountain peak with a series of ancient religious monuments. Pilgrims and tourists alike visit Mihintale to explore its temples, stupas, and breathtaking views.
Polonnaruwa District
- Polonnaruwa Ancient City: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Polonnaruwa Ancient City is renowned for its well-preserved ruins of palaces, temples, and statues. The city served as the second capital of Sri Lanka after the fall of Anuradhapura and is a testament to the island’s medieval glory.
- Gal Vihara: This rock temple is famous for its four large Buddha statues carved out of a single granite rock. The statues at Gal Vihara are considered masterpieces of Sri Lankan rock carving and are an essential stop in Polonnaruwa.
- Parakrama Samudraya: An enormous man-made reservoir built by King Parakramabahu I, the Parakrama Samudraya is an engineering marvel of the ancient world. The reservoir is still used today and is a symbol of the advanced hydraulic civilization of ancient Sri Lanka.
