Yapahuwa, a captivating historical landmark nestled amidst Sri Lanka’s Northwestern Province, offers a unique experience of Sri Lankan historical sites off the usual radar of most tourists. A day trip from Kandy to Yapahuwa features a rich tapestry of history, breathtaking scenery, and architectural marvels set in a beautiful landscape. Yapahuwa is a fascinating stone citadel of the Middle Ages with a thriving cultural connection with China evident in its history. A glimpse of Sri Lanka’s past during the Middle Ages and the transition of Kingdoms southward from Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa.
Sri Lanka’s Yapahuwa citadel, or “Yapawwa,” enjoyed a brief reign as the country’s capital from 1273 to 1284 A.D. Nestled between Anuradhapura and Kurunegala, this complex wasn’t always a royal hub. It began as a military outpost around 1215 AD under General Subhapabbota (Subha). King Bhuvenakabahu I, seeking a secure location, transformed Yapahuwa into a magnificent citadel boasting a rock fortress, royal palace, and Buddhist temple.
Rising almost dramatically out of the plains, the Yapahuwa rock reaches a formidable 90 meters in height. While the northern, eastern, and western faces rise nearly vertically, forming a natural defence system, the southern side offers a gentler slope. Carved steps and terraces were built here, providing only access to the summit. A fortified city wall to the south of the rock provided additional defence.
Located in the Kurunegala District, close to the main railway junction of Maho, Yapahuwa is halfway between Colombo and Anuradhapura. It takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach it from either location.
Yapahuwa is best reached from Kandy around an hour and 30 minutes away. November to January are the best times to visit Yapahuwa due to its cooler temperatures during these months.
Yapahuwa’s name translates to “outstanding hill” or “excellent mountain,” a fitting title for this majestic rock rising from the surrounding plains landscape. Often called Sri Lanka’s “Second Sigiriya”, this rock fortress served as the short-lived capital of Sri Lanka during the late 13th century. Inhabited by monks and hermits for centuries before, Yapahuwa witnessed a surge in importance when King Bhuvanaikabahu I (1271-1283 A.D.) sought a secure location to safeguard the sacred Tooth Relic during a period of invasion and turmoil. This period saw the construction of magnificent structures, transforming Yapahuwa into a royal citadel. After King Bhuvenaikabahu’s death, Yapahuwa fell victim to an invasion, which never recovered. Remarkably, the Pandyans took the Sacred Tooth Relic after the invasion to South India. However, Bhuvenaikabahu’s nephew and successor, Parakramabahu III (1287–1293), regained the Tooth Relic while visiting the Pandyan court in Madurai.
Yapahuwa is a captivating historical site that whispers tales of Sri Lanka’s rich past and connections with its neighbours. The citiadel architecture features the fascinating “Chinese dragon hybrid lion” statues. You’ll find replicas of this motif throughout Sri Lanka, even on prominent buildings like the Independence Monument in Colombo. These intricate figures hint at the cultural exchange Yapahuwa’s kingdom enjoyed with China and other parts of Asia during its reign.
The Yapahuwa stairway boasts two truly monumental lion sculptures, the largest of their kind in ancient Sri Lanka and the very emblem of the site. These majestic figures, depicted in a complex half-kneeling, half-sitting pose, stand out for their unique style. Unlike any other lion sculptures found in Sri Lanka, they resemble their Chinese counterparts, particularly in their wild manes and prominent eyes. This influence is likely due to the increased trade between China and Sri Lanka during the 13th century. While historical maritime trade routes often involved intermediaries, this period saw 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. Though their goal was 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 US $ 5 for Adults. (Prices current as of September 2025)
Capture a slice of Sri Lanka’s Middle Ages at Yapahuwa amidst its enchanting landscape. The ancient rock fortress stands sentinel over the landscape, providing unique photographic memories and magical moments. A blend of intricate stone architecture and panoramic views will leave you with many cherished memories.
