The Alluring Charm of Kotte: Unveiling the Hidden Gems of Sri Lanka's Ancient Capital

Sri Lanka's ancient capital of Kotte **y not be as well-k***n as some of the country's other historical sites, such as the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Anuradhapura or the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress. However, Kotte has its own unique charm and a fascinating history that is waiting to be discovered by intrepid travelers.

The History of Kotte

Kotte was the capital of Sri Lanka from the 14th to the 16th century, during the reign of the Kingdom of Kotte. The kingdom was founded by Alagakkonara, a minister of the previous kingdom, and it reached its peak during the reign of Parakra**bahu VI.

During this time, Kotte was a center of trade and commerce, and it attracted merchants from all over the world, including Persia, Arabia, and China. It was also a center of learning and culture, with the f**ous poet and scholar Alagiyawanna Mukawetiya living and teaching in Kotte.

What to See in Kotte

Although Kotte is no longer the capital of Sri Lanka, it still holds **ny treasures from its past. One of the most impressive sites in Kotte is the Kotte Raja**ha Viharaya, a Buddhist temple that was built in the 16th century. The temple is home to a 9-meter-tall statue of the Buddha, as well as a library of ancient texts and **nuscripts.

Another must-see attraction in Kotte is the National Museum of Sri Lanka, which is housed in a beautiful colonial-era building. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase Sri Lanka's rich history, from prehistoric times to the present day.

For those interested in the history of Sri Lankan politics, a visit to the Parli**ent Complex is a must. The complex is located in Kotte and is home to the Sri Lankan parli**ent. Visitors can take a tour of the building and learn about the country's political history.

E**loring Kotte

One of the best ways to e**lore Kotte is on foot or by bicycle. The city is relatively s**ll, and **ny of the attractions are within walking or cycling distance of each other. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Kotte and discover hidden gems, such as the beautiful Kotte Wetland Park or the charming Kotte Handicrafts Village.

Kotte is also a great place to s**ple some of Sri Lanka's delicious food. The city has **ny street food stalls and local restaurants that serve traditional Sri Lankan dishes, such as hoppers, kottu roti, and string hoppers.

Conclusion

Kotte **y not be as well-k***n as other historical sites in Sri Lanka, but it has its own unique charm and a rich history that is waiting to be e**lored. From ancient temples and museums to beautiful parks and delicious food, Kotte has something to offer every traveler. So why not add Kotte to your Sri Lanka itinerary and discover the hidden gems of this ancient capital?