An ancient Sinhalese legend recounts that when Adam and Eve were expelled from the Garden of Eden, God wanted to ease their trauma, guiding them to Sri Lanka, a setting reminiscent of their former paradise. This connection is echoed in the name itself, Sri Lanka, meaning "the resplendent island." Even in modern times, travelers to this pastoral gem often feel transported to a state of bliss

According to Sinhalese tradition, the mountain where Noah's Ark came to rest after the great flood is none other than Adam's Peak, nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka. Here, amidst towering peaks, lush jungles, bustling towns, and a rich tapestry of Buddhist heritage sites, visitors can immerse themselves in the island's diverse cultural and natural wonders, made more accessible now by direct flights offered by Arkia Airlines

Drawing a line on the map between the historic cities of Kandy, Anuradhapura, and Polonnaruwa delineates what is known as the "Cultural Triangle." This region boasts an abundance of temples and ancient Buddhist and Hindu sites, unmatched in other parts of Sri Lanka. It serves as an ideal locale to delve into the intricacies of Buddhism and the vibrant tapestry of Sri Lankan culture

Within the Cultural Triangle, several destinations stand out

Kandy

Regarded as the holy city of Buddhists worldwide, Kandy holds a significance akin to Jerusalem for Jews

Founded in the mid-14th century, Kandy served as the capital of its kingdom for nearly four centuries. Even amidst colonial invasions by the Portuguese and Dutch along the coast, the mountainous heartland of the island remained unconquered until the British finally subdued it after three centuries, dubbing the island Ceylon

Nestled on the banks of Lake Kandy lies the revered Sacred Tooth Relic, enshrined within the Temple of the Tooth. This sacred site holds paramount importance for Buddhists globally, symbolizing not only spiritual reverence but also national sovereignty for Sri Lankans. Over the centuries, both Buddhist and Hindu monarchs sought control over Kandy and its precious relic, making it a target of conquest and conflict. Even in recent times, the Muslim terrorist organization 'Tamil Tigers' attempted to seize the relic, not for its sanctity, but as a means to assert control over Sri Lanka. The temple compound has been the site of terrorist attacks, resulting in tragic loss of life

According to legend, after Buddha's passing in the sixth century BCE, two of his teeth survived cremation and were enshrined in a temple in India. Centuries later, fearing destruction, the relic was smuggled to Kandy. Two temples were erected to safeguard the relic, which remains housed within the Sugandha Kutiya ("Holy Ark") to this day. While only Buddhists are permitted to view the tooth relic directly, visitors of all faiths are welcome to explore the temple grounds

At the temple entrance, vendors offer fragrant lotus and jasmine flowers, symbolic offerings for temple rituals

Upon entering the main hall, adorned with vibrant paintings and intricate detailing depicting ceremonial processions, visitors are transported to a bygone era of royal splendor

The upper floor houses a balcony from which kings once addressed their subjects, now a serene vantage point overlooking the temple grounds

Ascending to the first floor, visitors encounter an enclosed area adorned with a colorful curtain reminiscent of those 'Parochets' in our synagogues. Behind it lies a treasure trove of gifts from dignitaries worldwide, a testament to the temple's enduring significance on the global stage

On the second floor, visitors encounter a parallel hall adorned with a similarly adorned curtain, covering an ark housing the revered tooth relic within a golden casket. Positioned before it, a sizable table awaits offerings of lotus flowers tendered by devotees

Along the rear wall, devout worshippers assume a reverent posture, palms pressed firmly to their chests as they offer fervent prayers. The air is suffused with the rich aroma of incense, its fragrance emanating from myriad sticks ignited by the faithful

Thrice daily, the "Tewana" prayer ceremony unfolds within the hallowed halls of the Tooth Temple, a spectacle that draws numerous believers. During this solemn rite, worshippers process before the sacred relic, bowing deeply, uttering heartfelt invocations, and ultimately proceeding outward. Accompanying them, musicians stand ready with wind instruments and drums, their rhythmic melodies infusing the ceremony with a sense of sacred grandeur. Try to get there on time to watch it

Adjacent to the main edifice of the Tooth Temple, a new prayer hall, inaugurated in 1982, offers respite from congestion. Within its confines, an array of Buddha statues, gifted from distant countries, stand in silent reverence

Notable among the temple's features is the entrance gate adorned with David's Stars, a decorative motif devoid of any substantive connection to Judaism or Israel

Within the temple courtyard, incense altars adorn the landscape, while further beyond stands the "Royal Audience Hall," a structure characterized by its open design supported by numerous wooden columns, serving as a venue for royal court proceedings and parliamentary deliberations

Upon departing the temple, visitors encounter the royal women's bathing pavilion nestled along the lake's shoreline. Constructed atop the water, the pavilion's lower level is submerged, while its upper floor serves as dressing rooms. From the city's vantage point, this iconic structure commands attention, standing as a prominent landmark along the lakeshore

Elsewhere in Kandy, the Royal Botanical Gardens sprawl across nearly 150 acres, boasting a diverse array of flora comprising over 4,000 distinct species. Near the entrance, visitors are greeted by vibrant tropical blooms, a fragrant rose garden, and an orchid greenhouse

Venturing deeper into the garden, one traverses a verdant forest adorned with an assortment of majestic trees, some boasting expansive trunks, while others soar to towering heights. Notably, an oak tree rises over ten stories tall, casting its majestic shadow over the surrounding landscape

Shaded by lush foliage, the garden offers a respite from the heat, while avian residents nestled amidst the branches serenade visitors with their melodious chirping. As one meanders through the verdant expanse, it's easy to appreciate why locals ascribe a sense of Edenic allure to this botanical oasis in Kandy

Sigiriya

One of Sri Lanka's most iconic landmarks is Sigiriya, aptly named "Lion Rock" for its imposing presence reminiscent of our own Masada mountain. Rising dramatically from the surrounding landscape, this sheer rock surface ascends 200 meters above ground level, telling a tale akin to the biblical saga of David and Absalom

In the year 477, Prince Kashyapa orchestrated a regicide, slaying his father, the king, in a bid to claim the throne of the Anuradhapura kingdom. Foreseeing resistance from his siblings and loyalists of the former king, he constructed his palace atop this towering rock formation as a fortress against potential adversaries. His fears proved well-founded, as his elder brother, the legitimate Crown Prince, sought refuge in India, amassing an army over the span of 18 years to reclaim his birthright

Upon ascending to the throne, the Kashyifa newly crowned king relocated the capital to the western foothills of Sigiriya. Surrounding the base of the hill, he erected formidable walls flanking a wide moat teeming with crocodiles. Within these fortified walls lay the "Water Garden," a verdant oasis adorned with lush foliage and tranquil ponds, each hosting a palatial abode. The approach to the hill traverses meticulously landscaped gardens reminiscent of the opulent design found at France's Versailles Palace, interspersed with ancient reservoirs and architectural remnants

As the ascent commences towards the summit, visitors encounter a daunting staircase comprising 1,400 uneven steps. While the absence of an elevator or cable car may seem puzzling, "Help Boys" stationed along the route offer invaluable assistance to those grappling with the arduous climb. The "boy" who assisted me looked about 60 years old, and he told me that this profession is a family tradition, and his mother and sister also work in the profession

Approximately midway up the ascent lies the "Lion Terrace," evoking memories of the northern terrace of Masada. Named for a colossal lion sculpture that once adorned the hillside, the terraced area affords panoramic vistas of the lush jungle below. Although only the lion's paws remain, the sight remains awe-inspiring, motivating many to persevere on their journey to the summit

At the pinnacle, remnants of palace walls and reservoirs evoke bygone grandeur, while tiered gardens reminiscent of Machu Picchu beckon exploration

After relishing the breathtaking views and exploring the historical remnants, visitors commence their descent, retracing their steps along the same path they ascended, past a cave adorned with ancient frescoes depicting women, a sight not suited for children

Sigiriya's allure lies not only in its historical significance but also in the physical and metaphorical ascent it offers to all who dare to scale its heights, promising unparalleled vistas and a profound connection to Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage

Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura stands as a testament to Sri Lanka's rich archaeological and historical legacy, drawing enthusiasts from around the globe to explore its troves of ancient ruins dating back to 900 BCE

The journey through Anuradhapura commences with a visit to a little museum delving into the city's regal lineage, setting the stage for an immersive exploration of captivating structures

Among the highlights is the Pothgul Vihara library complex, showcasing the remnants of a circular structure once brimming with palm leaf manuscripts, a testament to a bygone era where knowledge was meticulously transcribed by hand

Adjoining reading rooms and monk quarters, marked by weathered columns, offer glimpses into the scholarly pursuits of ancient Buddhist monks

Adjacent to the library complex stands the majestic palace of King Parakkrama Samudra, an awe-inspiring edifice reminiscent of a towering pyramid, boasting a thousand chambers and bearing scars of a past inferno inflicted by the king's adversaries

Further afield lies the remnants of the parliament and supreme court, a three-tiered structure adorned with stone benches and pillars that once echoed with the deliberations of governance and justice

Elsewhere, the ruins of the "Tooth House" temple beckon visitors with its enigmatic allure, housing various Buddha statues within its weathered walls

Anuradhapura's architectural tapestry extends beyond its political and religious edifices, encompassing ornate stupas such as the Kambodian-style square Stupa and the colossal Rankoth Vehera, a towering testament to ancient craftsmanship and devotion

With a plethora of structures to explore, a day in Anuradhapura offers but a glimpse into its storied past, leaving visitors enthralled and yearning for more

Dambulla

Located near Sigiriya, the town of Dambulla is home to remarkable temples and heritage sites, with the Cave Temples, also known as the Golden Rock Cave Temple, standing out as the most fascinating and significant among them. Perched atop a 160-meter hill formed by volcanic activity, these temples comprise numerous caves, some of which were excavated as early as the 2nd century BCE, primarily serving as abodes for monks. Five of these caves have been converted into temples, boasting a combined area of 2,100 square meters and featuring a shared façade adorned in radiant white

Throughout history, kings have felt compelled to contribute to these temples, resulting in the installation of 153 Buddha statues of various sizes and colors. The largest cave, known as the first cave, houses a magnificent 15-meter-long reclining Buddha statue

Each cave's ceilings are adorned with exquisite paintings, meticulously preserved for over two millennia through a special technique. Artists painted these murals on wet plaster, allowing the paint to merge seamlessly with the plaster as it dried, becoming an integral part of the ceiling cover

Before entering the temples, visitors are required to remove their shoes and hats, a practice that can prove challenging during midday hours when the rock surfaces become scorching and rugged, posing a hazard to tender-footed individuals—perhaps best suited for Bedouins accustomed to such terrain

Near Dambulla lies the Golden Temple, where a towering 30-meter-tall Buddha statue, entirely coated in gold, stands as a breathtaking testament to beauty and spiritual devotion—an attraction well worth experiencing

Thivanka Image Temple

After journeying from Anuradhapura, it's well worth making a stop at an intriguing structure in the nearby Polonnaruwa. Built in 1153 by King Parakramabahu, the Thivanka Image Temple boasts outer walls adorned with captivating stone decorations and protrusions, some of which extend directly from the wall itself. While the temple may appear modest from the inside, its exterior exudes magnificence. While most tourists tend to view it from the parking lot side, I recommend taking a stroll to the other side of the building, where the intricate decorations are clearer and more precise

Ella

Nestled in the heart of the mountains in central Sri Lanka, the picturesque region known as the Hill Country is home to the charming town of Ella. Renowned for its cool and refreshing mountain air, Ella attracts visitors with its stunning green mountain scenery, reminiscent more of Switzerland than of Sri Lanka

Facing westward from the town, a deep and lush valley stretches out below. Numerous hiking trails crisscross the landscape, offering adventurers a chance to explore Ella's rugged terrain. Among these trails, climbing the cliffs of Ella Rock stands out as a challenging yet rewarding experience. Rising 1,350 meters high on the right side of the valley, Ella Rock offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. However, this ascent should only be attempted with the guidance of a professional guide. The descent from the summit to the base of the cliff is equally enchanting, traversing streams, bridges, and railway tracks

On the left side of the valley, ridges of three mountains with saddles between them create a dramatic backdrop, while on the right, Little Adam's Peak stands at 1,140 meters high. The trek to Little Adam's Peak is a popular choice due to its moderate ascent, offering visitors a chance to soak in panoramic views of the area

When exploring the trails around Ella, it's advisable to wear high-top, closed shoes to avoid encounters with leeches inhabiting the water along many parts of the trail

Ella's favorable weather and breathtaking scenery have long attracted artists and writers seeking inspiration for their creative endeavors. For those with time to spare, staying in Ella for at least a week is highly recommended

Trails branching off from Ella's main road lead into the surrounding forest, with one path leading to Chabad House, a notable landmark in the area

The mountain slopes in the vicinity are steep and cloaked in various shades of green from the lush vegetation. Waterfalls cascade down the slopes, with Ravana Waterfall standing out as the largest and most beautiful among them. Conveniently located about 6 km south of the town, the waterfall is best viewed from a sharp bend in the descending road

The mountains surrounding Ella are adorned with vast tea plantations, stretching over hundreds of hectares. The cool climate, abundant rainfall, and ample sunlight create ideal conditions for growing the finest tea

Ceylon tea, proudly hailed as "Sri Lanka's eternal gift to the world," owes its legacy to Jewish brothers Morris, Gabriel, and Solomon de Worms from the Rothschild family. Their contribution to the tea industry, commemorated by their estate outside Ella, remains a testament to their lasting impact on Sri Lanka's rich tea heritage

Nuwara Eliya

Nestled amidst hills nearly two thousand meters high, Nuwara Eliya is a picturesque British hill resort town that draws Israeli tourists seeking its cool and inviting climate, as well as the scenic tea plantations that envelop it. Affectionately known as the "City of Lights," its nighttime charm may elude some, as it appeared rather deserted to me during my visit

Traveling to Nuwara Eliya by train is highly recommended, offering a unique experience in itself. The railway traverses breathtaking landscapes, winding through towering mountains, deep valleys, vibrant flower fields, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. Indeed, it brings to mind the verse from Psalms 104: "They go up by the mountains; they go down by the valleys unto the place which thou hast founded for them."         i

One of the city's main attractions is its picturesque post office, constructed by the British using distinctive red bricks. Still operational today, it retains its charm from a century ago when tourists would send postcards to their home countries—a tradition considered essential for visitors to the Sri Lankan hills. Missing out on sending a postcard from the Nuwara Eliya post office would leave your trip incomplete

At the heart of the city lies Victoria Park, offering a serene oasis amidst urban life. Gregory Lake, situated in the city center, provides opportunities for water sports, leisurely boat rides, and exhilarating jet skiing

Venturing beyond Nuwara Eliya, visitors can explore the expansive tea estates, where tea factories and visitor centers offer insight into the tea-making process. Witnessing the various types of leaves used for green and black tea, as well as observing the cutting and drying techniques, proves to be a fascinating experience. Some factories even allow visitors to join tea pickers in the fields, offering a hands-on opportunity to harvest tea leaves under the guidance of skilled workers. Concluding the tour, guests are treated to a tasting session, savoring the flavors of freshly brewed tea straight from the source

Note: The tourist sites recommended here are arranged according to their importance in my opinion, not according to a logical itinerary. I suggest you choose the sites that interest you, mark them on a map, and then decide on the route. It's worth knowing that the Sri Lankan tourism company ANDREW can provide a driver-guide for each route, as well as accommodations in hotels along the route, at prices even cheaper than Booking.com

The author was a guest of Arkia Airlines and Andrew travel company