This little book does not profess to contain anything strikingly original: its aim is to introduce the traveller and the antiquarian (and the two are frequently synonymous) to rarely trodden and most fascinating ground, to the beautiful remains of an architecture and a civilization of 2, 000 years ago, the greater part of which are easily accessible: and to make a humble attempt at awakening, if possible, a greater interest in a part of Ceylon which is only just arising from the slumber and neglect of many centuries.