North Central Province Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide to North Central Province in Sri Lanka. Find tips on where to go, what to see, and how to get around this region.


Introduction to North Central Province

North Central Province is located in the heart of Sri Lanka and is home to some of the country’s most significant cultural and historical sites. It is the birthplace of Sinhalese civilization and was the center of the ancient kingdoms of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. Visitors to North Central Province will find stunning ancient temples, impressive dagobas, and fascinating museums.

List of Places to Visit in North Central Province

North Central Province has a lot to offer visitors, from ancient temples and historical sites to scenic views and outdoor adventures. Here is a list of some of the must-visit attractions in the region:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Anuradhapura - The ancient city of Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital of Sri Lanka. Visitors can explore the ruins of ancient temples, palaces and stupas and there is also a museum here.
  • Polonnaruwa - Another ancient city in the region that was also once the capital of Sri Lanka between the 11th and 13th centuries. Here you will find well-preserved ruins of temples, palaces, and religious monuments.
  • Archaeological Museum, Anuradhapura - A museum that showcases artifacts and relics from the ancient kingdom of Anuradhapura.
  • Lankatilaka Temple, Polonnaruwa - A beautiful ancient temple with stunning architecture and fascinating frescoes.

Natural Attractions of North Central Province: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Minneriya National Park - Home to Sri Lanka’s largest gathering of wild elephants, visitors can go on safaris to see these majestic creatures up close.
  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress - A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. Climb to the top of this ancient fortress for breathtaking views.
  • Ritigala Forest Monastery - A peaceful and serene jungle-clad area with ancient ruins of a Buddhist monastery.
  • Kaudulla National Park - Another national park where visitors can see elephants and other wildlife on safari.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North Central Province

North Central Province is a great place for hiking or biking enthusiasts who love to spend time in nature. Some of the best routes to explore include:

  • Kala Wewa Cycling Trail - A beautiful 30km route that takes you along the Kala Wewa reservoir and through scenic countryside.
  • Abhayagiri Dagoba Circuit - A peaceful hiking trail that takes you through lush forests and past ancient ruins of temples and dagobas.
  • Ritigala Nature Trail - A 6km hike that takes you through the beautiful Ritigala Forest Reserve to see the ancient ruins of a Buddhist monastery.
  • Sigiriya - Climb to the top of this ancient fortress for a challenging hike that rewards you with stunning views.

Best Things to Do in North Central Province: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours to choose from in North Central Province. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Hot Air Balloon Ride - Take a hot air balloon ride over the ancient city of Anuradhapura for an unforgettable experience.
  • Elephant Safari - Go on a safari in Minneriya or Kaudulla National Parks to see elephants and other wildlife up close.
  • Cultural Tour - Take a tour of the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa to learn about the region’s history and culture.
  • Cycling Tour - Explore the beautiful countryside of North Central Province on a guided cycling tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for North Central Province

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to North Central Province:

  • Day 1 - Visit Anuradhapura and explore ancient temples and dagobas.
  • Day 2 - Take a day trip to Wilpattu National Park for a wildlife safari.
  • Day 3 - Visit Mihintale, a mountain peak thought to be the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
  • Day 4 - Explore Polonnaruwa, another ancient city full of ruins, temples, and dagobas.
  • Day 5 - Go on a hot air balloon ride over Anuradhapura for stunning aerial views.
  • Day 6 - Visit Sigiriya and climb to the top of the ancient rock fortress.
  • Day 7 - Relax and enjoy the beautiful beaches in the nearby coastal town of Trincomalee.

Food and Drink Scene of North Central Province

North Central Province is known for its delicious local cuisine and refreshing drinks. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kottu Roti - A dish made with shredded roti bread, vegetables, and your choice of meat or seafood.
  • Polos Curry - A savory curry made with young jackfruit.
  • String Hoppers - Steamed rice noodles served with coconut sambal and curry.
  • Hoppers - Crispy, bowl-shaped pancakes made with rice flour and coconut milk.

Local Beverages

  • King Coconut Water - A refreshing drink made from the juice of young coconuts.
  • Ginger Beer - A spicy, non-alcoholic drink made with fresh ginger.
  • Ceylon Tea - One of the world’s best-known and loved teas, grown in the nearby hills of Sri Lanka.

Where to Stay in North Central Province: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

North Central Province offers plenty of affordable and comfortable accommodations for visitors. Here are some suggestions:

  • Water Garden Sigiriya - A luxury hotel with stunning views of Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
  • Hotel Green Grass - A budget-friendly hotel with spacious rooms and a beautiful garden.
  • Regalia Resort and Spa - A luxurious resort with a large pool and spa facilities.
  • Lake Lodge - A beautiful eco-lodge with stunning views of Kandalama Lake.

What to Buy in North Central Province: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

While you’re in North Central Province, be sure to pick up some souvenirs or local products to bring home with you. Here are some suggestions:

  • Handicrafts - Look for unique handcrafted items like wooden carvings or pottery.
  • Spices - Sri Lanka is known for its spices, so why not bring home some cinnamon or cardamom?
  • Tea - Buy some local tea to bring home and enjoy long after your trip to North Central Province is over.
  • Handloom Products - The region is known for its handloom industry, so consider buying a beautiful piece of fabric or clothing.

Local Culture and Customs of North Central Province

Sri Lanka is a predominantly Buddhist country, and visitors to North Central Province should be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites and remove your shoes before entering. It is also customary to remove any headwear, hats or caps while inside the places of religious worship.

Best Time to Visit North Central Province

The best time to visit North Central Province is from May to September, during the dry season when there is little to no rainfall. The temperatures during these months are also more moderate, making it ideal for exploring the region.

Do’s and Don’ts of North Central Province

Do:

  • Learn a few Sinhala phrases before visiting - locals will appreciate it!
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Visit cultural and historical sites with a licensed guide.

Don’t:

  • Dress immodestly when visiting temples or religious sites.
  • Litter or damage the environment in any way.
  • Engage in unethical practices like elephant riding or animal shows.

Safety and Health

Safety in North Central Province

North Central Province is generally a safe place for visitors. However, it’s always wise to take precautions like not carrying too much cash or valuable items with you and using caution when drinking alcohol.

Health in North Central Province

Visitors to North Central Province should make sure they are up to date on routine vaccinations like measles and mumps. They should also take precautions against mosquito bites as the region is known to have cases of mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever.

Getting to North Central Province: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near North Central Province

The nearest airport to North Central Province is the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, which is around 160km away. From there, visitors can take a taxi or bus to North Central Province.

Bus Stations Near North Central Province

There are several bus stations in the region, including Anuradhapura New Bus Station and Polonnaruwa Bus Station. Buses run regularly to and from major cities in Sri Lanka and are an affordable option for travelers on a budget.

Other Options

Another option for getting to North Central Province is by train. The main railway station in the region is Anuradhapura Railway Station, which links to other major cities like Colombo and Kandy.

How to Get Around in North Central Province

There are several transportation options for getting around North Central Province, including taxis, tuk-tuks, and buses. Many hotels and guesthouses also offer bike rentals which are a great way to explore the countryside at your leisure.

Where to Go Next from North Central Province: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some suggestions for nearby destinations and excursions to take after exploring North Central Province:

  • Trincomalee - A beautiful coastal town famous for its beaches and coral reefs.
  • Dambulla - Home to the famous Dambulla Cave Temple, which features stunning murals and statues.
  • Kandy - A historic city and the former capital of Sri Lanka, located in the central highlands.
  • Ella - A small town in the hill country with stunning views and plenty of hiking trails.

Conclusion

North Central Province is a region full of history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring ancient temples and ruins to going on wildlife safaris and outdoor adventures, visitors to this region are sure to have an unforgettable experience. So start planning your trip to North Central Province today!



    Anuradhapura
    Minneriya National Park
    Polonnaruwa