Sri Lanka’s history is shaped by a series of powerful kingdoms that ruled the island for over two thousand years. The Anuradhapura Kingdom was the first capital, famous for Buddhism, massive stupas, and irrigation systems.
It was followed by the Polonnaruwa Kingdom, known for unity, prosperity, and advanced architecture. Later, smaller kingdoms like Dambadeniya, Yapahuwa, Kurunegala, and Gampola emerged, helping preserve Sinhala culture during times of invasion.
The Kotte Kingdom became a strong political and cultural center before European influence began. Finally, the Kandy Kingdom stood as the last independent state, protecting Sri Lankan traditions until British rule began in 1815.
Anuradhapura Kingdom (377 BC – 1017 AD)
The first and longest-lasting kingdom, known for introducing Buddhism, building massive stupas, and creating advanced irrigation systems. Kings like Dutugemunu and Devanampiyatissa made Anuradhapura a center of religion, culture, and power for over a millennium.
Polonnaruwa Kingdom (1056 – 1236 AD):
After the fall of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa became the capital. Great kings like Parakramabahu I developed strong irrigation networks and built beautiful temples and statues. The period marked unity, prosperity, and architectural brilliance before invasions weakened the kingdom.
Dambadeniya Kingdom (1220 – 1345 AD):
Dambadeniya rose as a safe inland capital after South Indian invasions. Kings like Parakramabahu II revived literature, Buddhism, and local governance. The kingdom helped preserve Sinhala culture during difficult times of foreign threats.
Yapahuwa Kingdom (1272 – 1284 AD)
A short-lived capital built on a rock fortress for protection against invasions. Yapahuwa is famous for its grand stone staircase and unique architecture that shows both Sinhala and South Indian influences.
Kurunegala Kingdom (1293 – 1341 AD):
Kurunegala became the next royal center, continuing efforts to stabilize the country. Kings improved trade and governance while defending against South Indian invasions. It was an important transitional period in Sri Lankan history.
Gampola Kingdom (1341 – 1412 AD):
Located near Kandy, Gampola’s rulers supported Buddhism and built beautiful temples like Lankatilaka and Gadaladeniya. The period was marked by art, religion, and shifting political centers as power moved to the central hills.
Kotte Kingdom (1412 – 1597 AD):
Kotte became a powerful and wealthy kingdom under King Parakramabahu VI. It was a golden age of literature, trade, and art. Later, the arrival of the Portuguese weakened the kingdom, leading to its decline.
Kandy Kingdom (1469 – 1815 AD):
The last independent kingdom of Sri Lanka, Kandy preserved Sinhalese culture and Buddhism during colonial times. It resisted Portuguese and Dutch invasions for centuries until it finally fell to the British in 1815, ending the royal era of Sri Lanka.