Anuradhapura
The Sacred Ancient Capital of Sri Lanka
The majestic white dome of Ruwanwelisaya Stupa overlooking the ancient city
Anuradhapura
Discover the magic of Anuradhapura. Sri Lanka's first capital features colossal brick stupas, the sacred Bodhi Tree, and over 2,000 years of deep Buddhist heritage and ruins.
Highlights
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi (Sacred Tree)
Ruwanwelisaya Stupa
Jetavanaramaya Monastery
Abhayagiri Vihāra
Isurumuniya Rock Temple
Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)
Samadhi Buddha Statue
Ancient Moonstones
About This Destination
Step back in time at Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka's first ancient capital that ruled the island for over 1,300 years. Today, this sprawling landscape is one of the world's most incredible archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage City.
The city's spiritual heart is the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree grown from the southern branch of the original tree in India under which the Buddha attained Enlightenment. Surrounding the Bodhi tree are several gigantic brick stupas, including the magnificent white-domed Ruwanwelisaya, one of the tallest monuments of the ancient world.
Renting a bicycle is the best way to explore the vast network of ancient palaces, bathing pools like the Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds), intricately carved Moonstones (Sandakada Pahana), and vast monastic complexes like Abhayagiri and Jetavanaramaya. A visit to the beautiful stone carvings of the Isurumuniya Rock Temple is also highly recommended.
Itinerary
The Heart of the Ancient Kingdom
Explore the core sacred sites of the Anuradhapura Kingdom.
- Morning - Visit the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi and Ruwanwelisaya
- Late Morning - Explore the ancient Brazen Palace (Lovamahapaya)
- Lunch - Authentic local rice and curry in town
- Afternoon - Cycle through the Abhayagiri Monastic complex
- Late Afternoon - Sunset views at the Isurumuniya Rock Temple
What to Bring
Important Information
- !Dress modestly when entering temple grounds
- !Shoes and hats must be removed before entering sacred premises
- !Do not turn your back to Buddha statues while taking photos
- !It gets extremely hot during midday, so plan cycling accordingly
What's Included
- Entrance to major archaeological sites
- Free museum entry with Central Cultural Fund pass
- Bicycle rental access nearby
- Guided heritage walks available
Tours featuring Anuradhapura
Ancient Capitals Heritage Tour
A journey through time in Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, exploring massive stupas and the Gal Viharaya's rock-cut Buddhas.
View Itinerary →More Cultural Heritage Destinations
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