In the footsteps of the Sinhalese kings
The journey through Sri Lanka's past begins at the most spectacular entry points. Two monumental lion paws mark the threshold of the ancient city of Sigiriya. Those who dare to venture through these claws must then take a passageway carved into the wall and climb over 1,000 steps to reach the top of the rock. At the peak, the panoramic view is simply breathtaking. The greenery of the jungle, the blue of the lakes and the white of the clouds all blend together on this impressive living canvas. All that remains of the country's former high-perched capital are a few palace walls and gardens irrigated by an ingenious system. This was gradually abandoned by the rulers and replaced by another historic city.

Between the 11th and 12th centuries, Polonnaruwa was the beating heart of the country. On this land spanning more than 100 hectares, there are rows of statues, temples and palaces, all bearing witness of the prosperous past of the city. Visitors can see Rankot Vihara, the fourth largest dagoba on the island, with a dome standing proud at 50 metres. A little further on, worshippers and monks crowd in front of the sculpted Buddhas of the Gal Vihara temple. While the frescoes of the Vatadage are surprisingly well preserved and have lost nothing of their sheer beauty.

You can then head further south to discover the last capital of the kings. Kandy is a sacred city because it houses a relic of Buddha. Pilgrims from across the whole world flock here to attend the daily prayers. The seven chests containing the tooth of the enlightenment deity are only visible during these moments of worship. But you don't have to be a believer to appreciate the solemnity and elegance of the place. An unmissable visit which you will leave filled with the scent of the hundreds of flowers left as offerings by the faithful. 

The old town of Galle, a witness to the colonial past 

Another monumental door, but this time for a different era. As you pass through the enclosure surrounding the city of Galle, the story of 16th and 17th century Sri Lanka unfolds. When the Portuguese settled here, the first defensive walls were constructed. A few years later, the Dutch transformed the small protected city into a real bastion that they hoped would be impregnable.

Still today, the city remains a remarkable example of a fortified citadel. In its narrow streets, the architectural styles reflect the past of the place. Asian and European influences intermingle, making Galle so charming. Sheltered by the city walls, enjoy a pleasant stroll whilst you discover the cafés, art galleries and colonial buildings. And, with a bit of luck, you may even catch a glimpse of the locals enjoying a game imported by the English - cricket. And as night begins to fall in, the lighthouse is the place to be. Framed by palm trees, the building is even more charming at sunset. 

A history marked by Buddhism

Inseparable from Sri Lanka, Buddha and his followers have shaped the island's landscape. This religious and philosophical belief originated in India and was introduced in the 3rd century BC. It has since become the leading form of religion in the country. While statues, dagobas and temples are ubiquitous throughout the country, two sites stand out for their historical and cultural importance.

Just to the north of Kandy, the city that houses the famous relic, lies the largest cave temple complex. Almost as old as the arrival of Buddhism, the cave temple of Rangiri Dambulla is still a place of pilgrimage today. Eight dozen caves with painted walls house no fewer than 157 Buddha statues. A unique place, with a serene atmosphere. In this dimly lit setting, the subtle lighting brings out the gold of the walls and gives the walls the appearance of sumptuous hangings.

In contrast to this subdued setting, the site of Anuradhapura is bathed in light. This sacred city, which was the capital of Ceylon for 1300 years, was built around a fig tree cutting. Having arrived from India, a Buddhist woman brought a branch from the "tree of enlightenment": the one under which Buddha attained enlightenment. Today, the branch itself has grown into a majestic plant. It occupies the central place of this large wooded park where monastery ruins, dagobas and other sculptures are all nestled. At night falls in, the flickers of candle light and incense sticks add even more enchantment to these sacred places.