Munneswaram Temple
One of the island’s five ancient Shiva shrines near Chilaw, linked by legend to Ravana and Rama, with colourful gopurams and a lotus pond. Festivals in February and August bring the temple to life.
Dambulla
A hillside of five cave shrines holding painted ceilings and more than 150 Buddha statues in a UNESCO World Heritage site, a natural stop on the road north.
Polonnaruwa
The medieval capital, where the Royal Palace, the Sacred Quadrangle and Gal Vihara’s rock-carved Buddhas stand beside a vast reservoir. Best explored by bicycle.
Anuradhapura
Sri Lanka’s first great capital, founded in the 4th century BC and home to the Sri Maha Bodhi, planted more than 2,300 years ago, and the vast white stupas. Cycle between monasteries and reservoirs at sunset.
Sigiriya
A 5th-century rock fortress rising from the plains, with cliff-side frescoes, mirror wall and sweeping views. Climb at dawn, then wander the water gardens.