Use the links above to see more photos.

Sri Lanka has a long and convoluted history. The city of Anuradhapura became its first capital in 380 BC and remained so for a thousand years. In the 10th century the rulers moved south to the more easily defensible town of Polunnawura. A few centuries later it moved again to the town of Kandy and from there into the hands of the British. In December we visited these ancient capitals.

The ruins of Anuradhapura are scattered over a few square kilometers and as you drive, bicycle, or tuk-tuk through you'll find the remains of dagobas (stupas), palaces, libraries, monasteries, gardens, pools and more. You need a few days to see it all but the entry fee, valid for one day only, is steep - so most people cram it into one day.

The 75 meter tall Abhayagiri Dagoba, pictured here, dates back to the 1st century BC and is said to house a golden bull which contains relics of the Buddha.

Click here to see a few more pix of this World Heritage Site.