Yapahuwa, a captivating historical landmark in Sri Lanka’s Northwestern Province, offers a unique experience of an often-overlooked cultural site. A day trip from Kandy to Yapahuwa reveals a rich tapestry of history, stunning scenery, and architectural marvels against a picturesque backdrop. This extraordinary stone citadel from the Middle Ages has a significant cultural connection to China. Its history provides insight into Sri Lanka’s past during the Middle Ages and the transition of kingdoms southward from Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa.
Sri Lanka’s Yapahuwa citadel, or “Yapawwa,” held a brief status as the nation’s capital from 1273 to 1284. Located between Anuradhapura and Kurunegala, this complex was not consistently a royal centre. It originated as a military outpost around 1215 under General Subhapabbota (Subha). King Bhuvenakabahu I, in search of a secure location, transformed Yapahuwa into a splendid citadel featuring a rock fortress, royal palace, and Buddhist temple.
Rising dramatically from the plains, the Yapahuwa rock reaches an impressive height of 90 metres. While the northern, eastern, and western faces ascend nearly vertically, forming a natural defence system, the southern side features a gentler slope. Carved steps and terraces were constructed here, providing the only access to the summit. A fortified city wall to the south of the rock offered additional protection.
Situated in the Kurunegala District, near the main railway junction of Maho, Yapahuwa lies halfway between Colombo and Anuradhapura. It takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach from either location.
Yapahuwa is most easily accessed from Kandy, which is about an hour and a half away. Due to the cooler temperatures during this period, November to January are the ideal months to visit.
Yapahuwa’s name translates to “outstanding hill” or “excellent mountain,” which is a fitting description of this majestic rock that rises above the surrounding plains. Often referred to as Sri Lanka’s “Second Sigiriya,” this rock fortress served as the short-lived capital of the country during the late 13th century. Inhabited by monks and hermits for centuries before, Yapahuwa gained significant importance when King Bhuvanaikabahu I (1271-1283 A.D.) sought a secure location to protect the sacred Tooth Relic during a time of invasion and turmoil. This period saw the construction of magnificent structures, transforming Yapahuwa into a royal citadel. Following King Bhuvanaikabahu’s death, Yapahuwa fell victim to an invasion from which it never recovered. The Pandyans transported the Sacred Tooth Relic to South India after the invasion. However, Bhuvanaikabahu’s nephew and successor, Parakramabahu III (128
Yapahuwa is a captivating historical site that recounts Sri Lanka’s rich past and its connections with neighbouring countries. The architecture of the citadel features the intriguing “Chinese dragon hybrid lion” statues. Replicas of this motif can be found across Sri Lanka, including on notable buildings like the Independence Monument in Colombo. These intricate figures reflect the cultural exchanges experienced by Yapahuwa’s kingdom with China and various regions of Asia during its reign.
The Yapahuwa stairway features two truly monumental lion sculptures, the largest in ancient Sri Lanka and an emblem of the site. These majestic figures, depicted in a complex half-kneeling, half-sitting posture, stand out for their distinctive style. Unlike other lion sculptures in Sri Lanka, they resemble their Chinese counterparts, particularly in their wild manes and prominent eyes. This influence likely stems from the increased trade between China and Sri Lanka during the 13th century. While historical maritime trade routes often involved intermediaries, this period witnessed a shift with the rise of the Yuan dynasty. The Yuan emperors, who established Beijing as their capital, sent an expedition to Sri Lanka in 1284, possibly with Marco Polo aboard. Although they aimed to obtain the sacred Tooth Relic, the encounter undoubtedly fostered cultural exchange. Further evidence of this connection lies in the significant number of Chinese coins unearthed at Yapahuwa, a testament to the flourishing trade relations between the Yapahuwa kingdom and the Chinese Empire.
The Yapahuwa Rock
Fortress and Museum Hours: 8 am to 5 pm daily. Tickets are $5 for adults. (Prices current as of September 2025)
Discover a glimpse of Sri Lanka’s Middle Ages at Yapahuwa, surrounded by its captivating landscape. The ancient rock fortress overlooks the scenery, providing unique photographic opportunities and enchanting moments. The blend of intricate stone architecture and sweeping vistas will leave you with cherished memories.
