1273 – 1284 CE
Yapahuwa Rock Fortress
Sri Lanka's sacred tooth-relic rock citadel
Overview
Rising abruptly from the plains of Kurunegala, the Yapahuwa Rock Fortress is an awe-inspiring archaeological site that served as the capital of Sri Lanka during the late 13th century. Modeled after Sigiriya, this granite fortress is reached by climbing three sequential ornate stone stairways. The topmost staircase is an engineering masterpiece of ancient Sri Lankan stonework, decorated with elaborate stone carvings of musicians, dwarfs, dancers, and the iconic Yapahuwa lions.
History
In 1273, following the fall of Polonnaruwa, King Buwanekabahu I established Yapahuwa as his fortified capital. He sheltered the Sacred Tooth Relic of Gautama Buddha here. In 1284, South Indian Pandyan forces captured it and carried off the relic, leading to the capital's decline.
On the grounds
The stone-carved Yapahuwa lion
Sacred Tooth Relic cave shrines
Outer defensive ramparts & moats
Before you climb
- ◆ Climb the staircase in early morning to avoid peak tropical heat
- ◆ Modest attire is required at the top cave temple - cover knees and shoulders
- ◆ Avoid carrying loose plastics to protect the resident monkeys
A suggested visit
07:30 - Enter the gates and cross the ancient double moats
08:10 - Marvel at the lion carvings on the ornamental staircase
09:00 - Hike to the summit for a 360° view of the plains
11:00 - Visit the archaeological museum at the base
