YAPAHUWA is a rock fortress turned into the Capital of Sri Lanka in the 13th Century

By King Bhuvanekabahu I (1272 – 1284 A.D.). Unlike Sigiriya, the palace was not built at the summit of the 300-foot rock, but, instead, two semi-circular walls, two moats and a Mud moat, protected the royal palace complex.

The stone staircase, reminiscent of Cambodian style, is among the handsomest on the island. Friezes of jubilant musicians, dancers and drummers decorate the last staircase and the porch above them.

Also see the small Site museum at Yapahuwa, with more than 1300 Chinese coins and pottery, a beautiful stone window-the best available in the country, old paintings in the cave temple, remains of the Tooth Relic Temple and other ruins.