Welcome to the Ancient Garden of Eden

 

Civilizations have existed in Sri Lanka, even duing the times of the Neanderthals. Archeological digs have confirmed that the Balangoda Man has lived in Sri Lanka more than 30,000 years ago.

Sri Lanka has been civilized even during the times of Lord Buddha, Lord Jesus Christ and many other special historical times.

The Kingdom of Tambapanni,  was the first Sinhala kingdom in ancient Sri Lanka. It existed between 543 BC, with the first Sinhalese king of modern day Sri Lanka to 505 BC. Tambapanni only had one king, Vijaya, a prince who was banished from North India to Sri Lanka.

Before the landing of Vijaya both Greek and Indian literature of the period made references to the island and considered it as a kind of fairyland, occupied by Yakshas or non human beings. According to a story of the Jataka, which calls the island Tambapanni, and mentions Nagadipa and Kalyani, states the island inhabited by Yakkhinis or she demons.

The Kingdom of Tambapanni was founded by Vijaya of Sri Lanka, the first Sinhalese King, and 700 of his followers after landing in Sri Lanka in a district near modern day Mannar, which is believed to be the district of Chilaw,after leaving Suppāraka. It is recorded the Vijaya made his landing on the day of Buddha’s death.

Legend has it that when Vijaya landed on the shores of the island he kissed the sand, called it ‘Thambapanni’ and planted a flag depicting a lion in the ground. The famous ‘Sanchi’ ruins of India depict the events of Prince Vijaya’a landing.

The Kingdom of Upatissa Nuwara (sometimes referred to as Vijitapura) was the second Sinhala kingdom in ancient Sri Lanka. It was established with the death of Vijaya by his prime minister Upatissa who became regent while Vijay’s heir to the throne and nephew Panduvasdeva came to the kingdom from North India.

The Anuradhapura Kingdom named for its capital city, was the first established kingdom in ancient Sri Lanka. Founded by King Pandukabhaya in 377 BC, the kingdom’s authority extended throughout the country, although several independent areas emerged from time to time, which grew more numerous towards the end of the kingdom. Nonetheless, the king of Anuradhapura was seen as the supreme ruler of the country throughout the Anuradhapura period.

Invasions from South India were a constant threat throughout the Anuradhapura period. Rulers such as Duttugamunu, Valagamba, and Dhatusena are noted for defeating the South Indians and regaining control of the kingdom. Other rulers who are notable for military achievements include Gajabahu I, who launched an invasion against the invaders, and Sena II, who sent his armies to assist a Pandyan prince.

Here follows my expedition at the Cultural triangle of the ancient world.