Yapahuwa Rock FortressCulture & Heritage
Yapahuwa Rock Fortress
Climb an ornamental stairway to a 13th-century fortress.
North Western Province
Yapahuwa
A 13th-century rock fortress with a spectacular stairway.
Best time: December to AprilStay: 1-2 hours (stop on the way to Anuradhapura)
About Yapahuwa
Yapahuwa was an ancient fortress and capital of Sri Lanka in the 13th century. It was built on a 300 ft rock and surrounded by moats and ramparts, a defensive design that still impresses today.
The ornamental stairway is the main attraction, a beautifully carved flight of steps rising up the rock. The climb rewards you with wide views over the surrounding countryside.
Highlights
Ornamental stairway
Rock fortress with moats and ramparts
Panoramic views from the top
A quiet, uncrowded site
Things to Do
- Climb the ornamental stairway
- Explore the ruins on the rock
- Photograph the surrounding plains
Travel Tips
Visit in the morning to avoid the midday heat
Wear sturdy shoes for the steps
Yapahuwa in Pictures
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Experiences
Things to Do in Yapahuwa
Tours
Package 01
Packages That Visit Yapahuwa
Package 0111-Day Ancient Cities & Hill Country Tour
Highlights
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Yapahuwa, Anuradhapura, Mihintale, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Sinharaja / Udawalawe and a Bentara river cruise.
Includes
Standard BB accommodation (10 nights), air-conditioned vehicle transport, entrance fees.