Sri Lanka Day Excursions.

DT3 - Sri Lanka Day Tour – 3 Ancient Kingdoms Dambadeniya, Panduwasnuwara & Yapahuwa from Colombo or Negombo

Overview

Dambadeniya, Panduwasnuwara, and Yapahuwa — all of which played significant roles in the island’s rich history:

1. Dambadeniya Kingdom (13th Century AD)

Dambadeniya is a historic town in Sri Lanka that served as the capital in the 13th century. It was established by King Vijayabahu III and later flourished under King Parakramabahu II, becoming a center of Buddhist learning and Sinhalese literature. The site features ancient palace ruins atop Maliga Gala and the Sri Wijayasundararamaya Temple.

• Period: Mid-13th century (c. 1220–1293 AD)

• Capital of: A short-lived capital during the medieval period.

• Famous King: King Parakramabahu II

• Significance:

  • Dambadeniya became the capital after the fall of Polonnaruwa.

  • King Parakramabahu II was a great patron of literature and Buddhism.

  • The Toṭagamuve Vijayabahu Pirivena was established here.

  • Known for literary revival, including works like Kavsilumina. 

2. Panduwasnuwara Kingdom (5th Century BC & later in 12th Century AD)

Panduwasnuwara Kingdom was an ancient capital of Sri Lanka, located in the North Western Province. It is believed to have been a royal seat in the 12th century under King Parakramabahu I, before he unified the country and moved the capital to Polonnaruwa.

The site contains the ruins of a royal palace, monasteries, and a well-preserved circular structure known as the "Chakrawalaya", which is linked to the legend of Princess Unmada Chitra and Prince Panduwasadeva. It’s an important archaeological site reflecting early Sinhalese architecture and Buddhist influence.

• • Period:

  • Traditionally associated with the legendary King Panduwasdeva (5th century BC).

  • Also used as a regional capital during King Parakramabahu I’s reign (12th century AD).

  • Location: North Western Province.

  • Significance:

    • Associated with the early legends of Sri Lankan monarchy.

    • Later became an administrative center during Polonnaruwa period.

    • Archaeological site includes palaces, monasteries, and a moat.

3. Yapahuwa Kingdom (13th Century AD)

Yapahuwa Kingdom was a short-lived medieval capital of Sri Lanka in the 13th century, established by King Bhuvanekabahu I. Located in the North Western Province, it was built around a massive granite rock rising about 90 meters high.

Yapahuwa is best known for its impressive stone stairway and fortress-like architecture. It once safeguarded the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha, making it a significant religious site. Though the capital was later abandoned, the ruins showcase a blend of military, religious, and artistic heritage.

• • Period: Late 13th century (c. 1272–1284 AD)

  • Capital of: A short-lived medieval capital.

  • Famous King: King Bhuvanaikabahu I

  • Significance:

  • Built as a rock fortress, similar to Sigiriya.

  • Temporarily housed the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha.

  • Blends Sinhalese and South Indian architectural styles.

  • The stone stairway is especially renowned for its artistic carvings.

Days Itinerary

• Departure time – 6.00 am

• Departure Point – Colombo or Negombo

• Distance one way 160 kms.

• Total duration of the day trip 13.00 hrs. To 15.00 hrs.

• Drive time one way 4.00 hrs.

• Visit Dambadeniya Ancient kingdom.

• Visit Panduwasnuwara Ancient Kingdom.

• Lunch

• Visit Yapahuwa Ancient Kingdom.

• Depart from Yapahuwa.

• Drop off in Colombo or Negombo. End of the day tour.

Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusions

• Pick up from Colombo or Negombo.

• Driver with private air-conditioned vehicle. 

• 1 Liters of water per person for the tour.

Exclusions

• Any camera or video filming charge at sites.

• Service of professional guide.

• Entrance fees to the sites.

• Lunch or any other meals.

• Any other expense which not stated above in inclusions.

• Insurance cover for any sort medical expenses, accident, injury or death.

Additional Info

• You will receive your confirmation upon receipt of the full payment.

• You must wear appropriate clothes to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites and remove your shoes and hats before entering the premises.

• Hats & comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

• Comfortable clothing is recommended for hot sunny weather.

• A maximum of 8 passengers per booking

• It is advised to carry enough local currency (LKR) to pay at the site entrances and for meals etc., ticket prices as follows.

• Yapahuwa Ancient City LKR 2,000.00 (Approximately) (USD 7.00) per person

• Dambadeniya Museum LKR 200.00 (Approximately) (USD 00.70) per person

• Lunch - Depending on where you have the lunch and what you take.

Cancellation Policy

• 24 hours prior to your departure time you will receive 80% of the total cost.