World History Archive
Explore the rich history and heritage of Sri Lankan kingdoms and rulers from ancient times to the colonial era. Discover 188 kings across 15 kingdoms.
Featured Rulers
Discover the legendary kings who shaped Sri Lankan history
King Vijaya
543–505 BCE
King Vijaya is the legendary first king of Sri Lanka, known for founding the Sinhalese people. According to the Mahāvaṃsa, he was the son of King Sinh...
Upatissa (regent)
505–504 BCE
Upatissa was a chief minister of King Vijaya and the regent of Sri Lanka for one year after Vijaya's death. He was the foremost of the ministers and f...
King Panduvasudeva
504–474 BCE
Panduvasudeva was the first monarch of the Kingdom of Upatissa Nuwara, reigning for 30 years. He was the nephew of his predecessor, King Vijaya, and w...
King Abhaya
474–454 BCE
Abhaya was the eldest son of King Panduvasudeva and succeeded his father as the king of Upatissa Nuwara, ruling for 20 years. He was chosen by his bro...
Tissa (regent)
454–437 BCE
Tissa was the younger brother of King Abhaya and became the regent of Upatissa Nuwara after Abhaya was deposed. He was one of the ten sons of King Pan...
King Pandukabhaya
437–367 BCE
Pandukabhaya is a legendary king of Sri Lanka and the first monarch of the Anuradhapura Kingdom. His story is one of destiny and perseverance; born to...
Historical Kingdoms
From legendary Tambapanni to the mighty Kandyan Kingdom