Yapahuwa tour
Yapahuwa is an ancient rock fortress in Sri Lanka, located in the North Western Province, about 145 kilometers northeast of Colombo. It was briefly the capital of the country in the 13th century during the reign of King Bhuvanekabahu 1. The site is renowned for its stunning rock stairway, which leads up to the fortress and was originally adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.
The citadel is built on a 90-meter-high rock and features a blend of military and religious architecture, with remains of a palace, a Buddhist temple, and a stupa. Yapahuwa is particularly famous for the ornamental stairway leading to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, which housed the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha before it was moved to Kandy.
The site offers a glimpse into the island’s medieval history and showcases the architectural and artistic achievements of the time. It is a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts exploring Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
An excursion to Yapahuwa from Habarana is a wonderful way to explore one of Sri Lanka’s lesser-known historical sites
Here’s a guide to help you plan your trip:
Distance: Approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles).
Travel Time: About 2 hours by car.
By Car: The most convenient way is to hire a private car or taxi. The journey will take you through scenic countryside, offering glimpses of rural Sri Lankan life.
- Morning Departure: Leave Habarana early in the morning to make the most of your day.
- Arrival at Yapahuwa: Upon arrival, start your visit with the impressive stone stairway leading to the ancient fortress.
Rock Fortress: Climb the iconic stairway to explore the fortress ruins, palace remains, and ancient stupa.
Archaeological Museum: Visit the small museum near the entrance, which houses artifacts discovered at the site.
Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the top of the rock.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: The climb can be steep and uneven, so good footwear is essential.
Bring Water and Snacks: There are limited facilities at the site, so it’s wise to bring your own refreshments.
Sun Protection: The area can get quite sunny and hot, so wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. – *Guided Tour:* Consider hiring a guide to learn more about the history and significance of the site.
After exploring Yapahuwa, you can head back towards Habarana and stop at a local restaurant for lunch.
Plan to leave Yapahuwa by mid-afternoon to reach Habarana by early evening, ensuring you have enough daylight for a safe journey back.
One person : SLRs 30000
Two people : SLRs 40,000
Three people : SLRs 55000
For each additional person: +SLRs 10,000
In addition to the above, an admission ticket fee is required.
