Sigiriya Rock Fortress...
Sigiriya or Sinhagiri
(Lion Rock Sinhala: සීගිරිය, Tamil: சிகிரியா,
This ancient rock fortress located in the northern Matale District in the Central Province, Sri Lanka.
The name refers to a site of historical and archaeological significance that is dominated by a massive column of rock nearly 200 meters (660 ft) high.
According to ancient Sri Lankan chronicle this site was selected by King Kashyapa (477 – 495 AD) for his new capital. He built his palace on the top of this rock and decorated its sides with colorful frescoes.
The capital and the royal palace was abandoned after the king's death. It was used as a Buddhist monastery until the 14th century. Sigiriya today is a UNESCO listed World Heritage Site. It is one of the best preserved examples of ancient urban planning..
Golden Temple of Dambulla..
Dambulla (දඹුල්ල :Sinhala, தம்புள்ளை Tampuḷḷai, Tamil:)
Situated in the north of Matale District, Central Province of Sri Lanka
The largest and best preserved cave temple complex of Sri Lanka, is a World Heritage Site situated 148 km(92 mi) east of Colombo , 72 km (45 mi) north of Kandy and 43 km (27 mi) north of Matale.
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 five caves, which contain statues and paintings. These paintings and statues are related to Gautama Buddha and his life. There are a total of 153 Buddha statues, three statues of Sri Lankan kings and four statues of Gods and Goddesses.The murals cover an area of 2,100 square metres (23,000 sq ft). Depictions on the walls of the caves include the temptation by the demon Mara, and Buddha's first sermon.
