Yapahuwa Rock Fortress
From 1273 until 1284, the country’s kingdom was ruled from the 92m high Fortress of Yapahuwa. It is made up of three parts: a rock fortress, a royal palace, and a Buddhist temple. The Yapahuwa complex’s main attraction is its intricate stone slab stairway that rises steeply up to the palace, as well as the outstanding stone carvings and sculptures of the Yapahuwa Lion.
According to the most recent archaeological findings in Yapahuwa, the kingdom maintained strong diplomatic contacts with China. Several Chinese potteries were discovered during the early excavations.
Archaeological excavations at the site, as well as inscriptions on the adjacent stone caves, prove that human activity began 5000 years ago.
The murals in the caves are from the 13th and 18th centuries are still can be seen.
Additional information
Nearby Attractions
The most popular nearby attraction
- Dambulla Cave Temple (71km)
Accommodation
Accommodation (within 10km)
- Star Classified hotels- No
- International Chain Hotels- No
- Boutique Hotels- No
- Resorts- No
- Ayurvedic Hotels- No
- Inns/Guest Houses- Yes
- Hostels- No
- Homestays- No
- Eco Hotels- No
* You might still find preferred accommodation in nearby cities.
Distance
Distance from (estimate)
- CMB Airport- 113km (travel time: 3hrs)
- Colombo City- 145km (travel time: 3hrs 40min)
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress- 89km (travel time: 2hrs 20min)
- Anuradhapura Ancient City- 75km (travel time: 1hrs 40min)
- Polonnaruwa Ancient City- 126km (travel time: 3hrs 10min)
- Kandy City- 89km (travel time: 2hrs 40min)
- Galle Dutch Fort- 246km (travel time: 5hrs)
* The time and distance are only given to give you an idea. There are stopovers between the two locations. The cities listed above are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Sri Lanka.
Best Time
Season
- November to April