DRAG

Yapahuwa: The Forgotten Citadel of Lions, Legends, and Sacred Thrones

Rising dramatically from the plains of Sri Lanka’s North Western Province, Yapahuwa is a destination that defies expectations. Once the island’s royal capital and guardian of the Sacred Tooth Relic, this 13th-century rock fortress is a masterpiece of medieval architecture, spiritual devotion, and military ingenuity. With its iconic lion staircase, panoramic views, and echoes of ancient diplomacy, Yapahuwa is not just a historical site—it’s a story carved in stone.

The Name and Its Origins

The name Yapahuwa is believed to be a linguistic evolution of the original term “Yapawwa”, which itself may have derived from the ancient name “Subhapabbata”—meaning “the beautiful rock” in Pali. This name appears in early Buddhist texts such as the Bodhivamsa, and archaeological inscriptions suggest the site was once a monastic retreat long before it became a royal citadel.

In the 13th century, the site was fortified by King Bhuvanekabahu I, who moved the capital from Polonnaruwa to Yapahuwa in 1272 AD to protect the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha from South Indian invasions. The name Yapahuwa thus became synonymous with both spiritual sanctity and royal sovereignty.

Population & Demographics

Yapahuwa lies within the Yapahuwa Polling Division of the Kurunegala District, covering an area of 849.44 km². As of the 2012 census, the division had a population of approximately 156,502 residents, with a population density of 184 people per km².

The demographic composition is predominantly Sinhalese Buddhist, with smaller communities of Sri Lankan Moors (Muslims) and Sri Lankan Tamils, reflecting the region’s historical role as a cultural crossroads. The population is largely rural, with strong ties to agriculture, religious life, and heritage preservation.

Main Occupations & Local Economy

Yapahuwa’s economy is rooted in agriculture, tourism, and artisanal crafts:

  • Agriculture: The surrounding plains are fertile and support the cultivation of rice, coconuts, vegetables, and fruits. Traditional irrigation systems, some dating back to the Anuradhapura period, still nourish the land.
  • Tourism: As a UNESCO-nominated heritage site, Yapahuwa attracts both domestic pilgrims and international travelers. Locals are engaged in guiding, hospitality, handicrafts, and conservation work.
  • Handicrafts & Cottage Industries: Coir rope making, wood carving, and clay pottery are practiced in nearby villages, often sold at local markets and temple fairs.
  • Public Service & Education: As part of the Kurunegala District, Yapahuwa benefits from regional investments in schools, health centers, and infrastructure.

Signature Stays: Where to Sleep in Style

While Yapahuwa remains a quiet destination, a growing number of boutique hotels and eco-resorts offer comfort, charm, and cultural immersion:

Top Tourist Attractions

Yapahuwa is a treasure trove of archaeological and spiritual marvels. Highlights include:

  • Yapahuwa Rock Fortress: A 90-meter-high granite outcrop crowned with the ruins of a royal palace and Buddhist monastery. The fortress was modeled after Sigiriya but served a more defensive purpose.

  • The Ornamental Staircase: Perhaps the most iconic feature of Yapahuwa, this grand stone stairway is flanked by intricately carved lion sculptures, dancers, and musicians. The Yapahuwa Lion is so iconic it once adorned the Sri Lankan Rs. 10 note.

  • Temple of the Tooth Relic Site: Though the relic was later moved to Kandy, the original shrine at Yapahuwa remains a site of deep reverence.

  • Cave Temples & Brahmi Inscriptions: Several caves at the base of the rock contain Buddha statues, murals, and inscriptions dating back to the 1st century AD, revealing the site’s earlier monastic use.

  • Yapahuwa Archaeological Museum: Located at the base of the rock, the museum houses Chinese coins, celadon pottery, stone carvings, and relics that highlight Yapahuwa’s diplomatic ties with the Yuan Dynasty.

  • Panoramic Summit Views: A climb to the top rewards visitors with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, dotted with paddy fields, lakes, and distant hills.