Yapahuwa: 13th Century Sky Citadel & Monumental Ornamental Stairway

Rising dramatically 90 meters above the surrounding scrub plains of Wayamba, Yapahuwa was chosen in the 13th century (1272–1284 CE) by King Buvanekabahu I as the royal capital and impregnable stronghold of Sri Lanka, housing the Sacred Tooth Relic to protect it from Dravidian invaders. Often hailed by historians as Sri Lanka's 'second Sigiriya', Yapahuwa is celebrated for its breathtaking **monumental stone ornamental stairway**—one of the grandest architectural achievements in ancient South Asia. Flanked by ornate balustrades, mythical Makara heads, musicians, graceful female dancers, and two world-famous stone lions displaying distinct Chinese artistic influence, the steep flight of stone stairs ascends towards the royal Tooth Relic terrace. Unlike crowded tourist sites, Yapahuwa retains an authentic, tranquil atmosphere. From the summit plateau, travelers enjoy stunning 360-degree vistas across lush coconut groves, ancient irrigation tanks, and distant rocky peaks. Conveniently located on the route between Colombo/Kurunegala and Anuradhapura or Wilpattu, it represents an essential hidden cultural treasure.