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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Anuradhapura: All you need to know about the Sacred City of Sri Lanka

The sacred city of Anuradhapura is a must-stop on your travel itinerary if you want to get a taste of the rich history that Sri Lanka has to offer. We absolutely loved this place and it just might have been one of our favorites from our 3-week backpacking trip. This Ultimate travel guide to Anuradhapura will take you through the best places to visit, where to stay, travel tips, and much more. Enjoy a 2 or 3-day stay, while biking your way through ancient ruins in this marvelous historical-filled city.

The UNESCO world heritage site was the first capital of Sri Lanka and holds major cultural, religious, and historical significance. Its religious significance makes the destination an important pilgrimage for devotees. Over an area of around 40 square kilometers, you will find many remnants of gigantic dagobas and temples scattered. Together with its neighboring sightseeing Mihintale , Anuradhapura is the perfect destination to learn more about Sri Lanka’s culture & history .

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Is Anuradhapura worth visiting?

While planning our 3-week journey through Sri Lanka we were going back and forth on whether or not to add Anuradhapura to our itinerary. Since we are more in favor of slow travel, we had to make some cuts on what to visit. When researching, we noticed it often doesn’t make the list despite its impressive attractions. This ancient city seems to remain rather an off-the-beaten-path destination .

In the end, we decided to make a stop, and we sure didn’t regret it. Besides being an absolutely beautiful scenic place, the locals and its atmosphere just stole our hearts. Anuradhapura was one of the perfect places to get a better taste and feel of Sinhalese daily life. Since we encountered fewer tourists here compared to other popular places like Ella and Sigiriya , it was definitely a more serene experience. Here you can peacefully cruise between temples surrounded by rice fields without encountering another soul for a while. We would 100% recommend putting it on your Sri Lanka itinerary, for which two days are just the perfect amount.

Travel Guide Anuradhapura: History of the Sacred City

The sacred city of Anuradhapura is located in the northern-central part of Sri Lanka. Next to Jaffna , it is probably the most visited destination towards the north of this island. For our 3-week Sri Lanka itinerary , we decided to follow the north-to-south loop. After our safari adventure in Wilpattu National Park , we found our way to Anuradhapura.

*Disclaimer: Prices in this travel guide to Anuradhapura are indications and are based on the daily currency rate during our stay in Sri Lanka. Bear in mind that the Sri Lankan currency is currently heavily fluctuating due to inflation. We also advise you to check current travel advice to Sri Lanka due to the ongoing economic crisis. This has led to possible shortages of basic necessities (such as food and fuel), power cuts, and overall unstable security situations.

The first capital of Sri Lanka

Anuradhapura used to be one of the greatest monastic cities, dating back to the 5th Century BC. The city flourished as the first capital of Sri Lanka , serving as the royal seat from 380 BC to the 11th century AD. During the 1400 years as the capital of the country, more than 130 kings took reign. Buddhism found its way from India to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BC when the king of Anuradhapura at the time encountered the Indian monk Mahinda. After this Buddhism rapidly spread around the whole island.

Anuradhapura, as the old center of Theravada Buddhism, gives the perfect glimpse of pre-Christian times into the glorious Sinhalese Buddhist civilization . The marvelous stupas or dagobas, that tower along the sky, are the perfect example of ancient Sri Lankan engineering. The many ruins of former royal palaces and temples, together with some remarkable rock carvings, show the richness of its culture.

Unesco World Heritage

These archeological treasures make the destination most beloved among history buffs. The area covers around 40 square kilometers and is filled with excavated temples and remains of the old king’s city. Because of its historical significance dating back to the ancient Sinhalese civilization, the ancient town became a UNESCO world heritage site in 1982. Together with Kandy and Polonnaruwa , Anuradhapura is part of the famous cultural triangle of Sri Lanka. A 1000 years ago this cultural triangle used to be the center of thriving commercial and religion.

Over the centuries though the whole country had to deal continually with incursions coming from India. These invasions made people start abandoning Anuradhapura, after which the city fell into oblivion. Nature started to take over, overgrowing the temples and dagobas with plants. It was only until the beginning of the 20th century under the British, when Sri Lanka was better known as Ceylon , that Anuradhapura was excavated.

Travel Guide Anuradhapura: The best things to do & see

We arrived at our guest house stay in Anuradhapura around noon, where we would stay for the coming 2 nights. Since we still had the full afternoon, we decided to already head out to explore the temple complex of Mihintale . This was probably one of our favorite sights in Sri Lanka and the perfect place to enjoy the colorful sunset. The next day we spent the day discovering the ancient city of Anuradhapura. We decided to rent a tuk-tuk with a driver to take us around the whole area.

It is perfectly possible to see both Mihintale and the old city of Anuradhapura in one day, but then you will be looking at one hectic full day. We personally like to take our time and would recommend staying 2 nights . This way you can also get to see more of local life and experience the place in another way. We definitely also advise joining a dinner at your local guesthouse if they offer it. A must if you want to experience authentic Sri Lankan food and learn more about their cuisine. More on that later in our Travel Guide Anuradhapura.

Explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura

The old royal city of Anuradhapura is bursting with UNESCO world heritage sites , filled with stupas and temples. As one of the key places in the cultural triangle , it holds significant historical importance for Sri Lanka. Below you can find the main highlights of the ancient city. There are way more sights on the historic grounds, but we wanted to list the most interesting ones.

Practical information

Put on your alarm clock and set out in the early morning to start exploring. Temperatures tend to be very hot, so try to beat the heat. Another wonderful thing about going early is there is practically no other tourist in sight, only locals that come for their morning prayer. It’s a beautiful sight to witness devotees all dressed in white clothing.
On average it will take you around 4 to 5 hours to cover the most important parts of the grounds.
In order to access the ruins of the sacred city, you will need to buy a day pass . The ruins are open daily from 7h30 AM to 5h30 PM. The entrance fee is around 5500 LKR or €25 and you can purchase tickets near the archeological museum.
Some sights are free, only the Isurumuniya Viharaya temple is not included in the day ticket and costs additional 200 rupees.
The sites are spread out over an area of 40 square kilometers and that’s quite some ground to cover. It makes the most sense to rent a bike or tuk-tuk with a guide to get around.

The whole area almost feels like one big park, with lakes and rice fields surrounding the sights. The archeological site is actually not a well-defined area, unlike the ancient city of Polonnaruwa , and they don’t check your ticket systematically. Some of the sights are for free and therefore not included in the ticket, so some might opt to not get the actual ticket. However the main sights require a ticket check, and you don’t want to miss out on these.

Sri Maha Bodhi

The sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree is one of the holiest sites in Sri Lanka and is located in the spiritual center of Anuradhapura, Mahavihara. It’s the heart of the ancient city and home to the oldest, historically authenticated tree in the world (it’s believed to be 2000 years old). Rumors say it’s even the sacred fig tree where Buddha attained Enlightenment. Thus, making the holy Bodhi tree the center of Anuradhapura, spiritually but also physically (being literally in the center of the temple, which surrounds the sacred tree).

Originally this Bodhi tree is supposed to stem from a branch of the Bodhgaya tree from India. Hence why it’s one of the most popular attractions in Anuradhapura. People often tend to stand in line and come to recite mantras together. It’s very fascinating to observe the local traditions that take place within this serene place. The entrance is free.

Ruvanvelisaya Dagoba

This remarkable giant white stupa is considered one of the most sacred Buddhist places, as well as one of the world’s tallest ancient structures . The dagoba used to be the biggest in the world. Nowadays it stands tall at 55m, which is way less than its original height due to the much damage it had to endure. Regardless it was still an impressive sight to see and made us feel really small. Its beautiful dome shape and the wall of 344 elephant statues guarding the structure left us in total awe. The white limestone construction sticks out beautifully with the colorful Buddhist flags and ropes. The Ruvanvelisaya dagoba is known to be home to some sacred relics of Buddhism: As allegedly some of Buddha’s ashes are enshrined here.

Although a part of the stupa was under construction at the moment of our visit, it was really interesting to see how they actually freshen it up. The place itself can get very crowded on a Sunday and might be the busiest place in the holy city. Some recommend avoiding it during the weekend, but then you might miss Sri Lankans performing their traditions. Locals usually bring lotus flowers as an offering before walking clockwise around the stupa.

Isurumuniya Vihara

Another beautiful site is Isurumuni Viharaya, a Buddhist temple carved out of a rock dating back to the reign of Devanampiya Tissa (300 BC). The rock temple’s design is quite unique and is set around a lotus pond with carvings of playful elephants. It’s possible to climb around the back to the top, revealing a small viewing platform over the surrounding rice fields. Up here you can get a better look at the bell-shaped stupa which is located to the side. When descending you will pass a Buddha shrine underneath a gorgeous tree.

The small museum near the entrance showcases several beautiful stone carvings, amongst them the famous Isurumuniya lovers sculpture . It portrays a woman sitting on the lap of a man, which supposedly depicts Prince Saliya from the 5th century AD. It was said he gave up the right to the throne in order to marry a girl from a lower caste.

ENTRANCE FEE | 200 LKR (~ €1)

OPENING TIMES | 7.30 am to 6.30 pm

Abhayagiri Dagoba

The Abhayagiri dagoba used to serve as the ceremonial area of the Abhayagiri Monastery where thousands of Buddhist monks used to gather. This colossal dagoba dates back to the 1st century BC and was originally over 100m high. In ancient times it was regarded as one of the greatest structures next to the famous pyramids of Giza. Today the red brick dagoba ‘only’ measures around 75m after its reconstruction but is still breathtaking. The massive unplastered dome rises above the surrounding forest from far away. Contrary to its twin-looking brick dagoba, the Jetavanarama , the tip is still intact. Interesting to know: the name of the dagoba translates to ‘Hill of Protection’ or ‘Fearless Hill’.

Mirisavatiya dagoba

Another huge white stupa, but lesser visited than the Ruvanvelisaya Dagoba . It was built by King Dutugemunu and the story goes that the King went to bathe in the Tissa Wewa , leaving his scepter on the bank. The scepter supposedly contained a relic of Buddha. When he returned from his bath he couldn’t move the scepter anymore, which was anchored to the ground. The king took this as a sign, building a dagoba on the very spot.

Mahasena Temple (Moonstone)

More northwest of the Abhayagiri Dagoba you can find the ruins of an old monk residential complex. It’s mostly known for its well-preserved moonstone (or Sandakada Pahana). Moonstones were typical Sinhalese architectural elements usually found at the entrance of a temple. The design of these moonstones is usually a half-round stone with detailed carvings. In the center, you can see a lotus flower surrounded by intertwined leaves, followed by swans. Lastly, in the outer circle, you can see a row of animals. It typically shows elephants that represent growth, lions that symbolize energy, horses that stand for power, and bulls that represent patience.

Located just 100 meters further you can find the Ratnaprasada or ‘Jewel palace’. Sadly today only ruins are left but originally the palace was seven stories high. You can still spot some well-preserved guard stones or Muragala at the entrances where the palace used to be. It depicts the Cobra King holdings a flowering branch and a vase of abundance in his hands. At his feet, you can spot a little dwarf and his crown is framed by a cobra.

Further south you come across a big pool of water, known as the Elephant pond (Eth Pokuna) . It used to serve as ancient water storage for the monastery. However, our guide told us it might have also been used as a pool for the elephants. Hence its name and size. Supposedly the tank can fit 6 Olympic-style swimming pools, so I would say big enough to bathe some elephants.

The Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)

Another swimming pool looking like construction is the Twin ponds or Kuttam Pokuna from around the 8th century. Unfortunately, we missed these on the drive. It is basically two identical pools next to each other, fitting for its name. The ponds show some significant craftsmanship by the early Sinhalese in terms of hydrological and architectural engineering. Water found its way to the ponds through underground pipes where it even went through a water-filtering system. It finally entered the ponds through the mouth of a Makara, a mythical hybrid beast. The ponds were most likely used by monks from the Abayagiri dagoba, one for bathing and the other for drinking.

Finish your tour at the Tessa Wewa lake

Throughout the grounds of Anuradhapura, you can find three lakes, which are actually big artificial water reservoirs (or Wewa). They were provided by the king and meant for the irrigation of the land. It’s the perfect place to catch the sunset or drive by with the bike to catch a glimpse of the white stupa. You can easily get here coming from the Isurumuniya Vihara.

View the sunset from Mihintale

In the afternoon upon arrival in Anuradhapura, we decided to head out to explore Mihintale and view the sunset from this temple complex . Little did we know that the views over the valley would be this impressive. We absolutely fell in love with this place and made our stop in Anuradhapura one of our favorites on our whole trip. If there is one place we can absolutely advise to put on your Sri Lanka itinerary it’s this one. You will not be disappointed!

The birthplace of Buddhism

Mihintale is considered to be the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka , making it one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in the country. So you will most likely see more locals here than tourists. The sacred area is located on a small mountain, accessible by a long stair path. The main temple site includes a white stupa in the middle surrounded by 3 higher platforms. On one, there’s a big white Buddha statue, reachable by small stairs, carved into the rock. On the other side thrones a rock, better known as the ‘meditation rock’ offering magnificent views. This one needs a bit more effort to get up, a little adventure! The last platform holds a colossal white dagoba, the perfect hangout spot to catch the sunset.

You should consider planning in half a day to explore this unique site. Some people combine this with the ancient city in one day, which is possible but might make your day too hectic and you ought to miss something. The area is located ~15 kilometers east of the city. The easiest way to reach it is by taking a tuk-tuk which would cost you around 2500 rupees (round trip) . Another cheap option is taking the bus from Anuradhapura bus station, which costs only 40 rupees (~ €0,15).

ENTRANCE FEE | 1000 LKR (~ € 4,50)

OPENING TIMES | 9 am to 5 pm

Travel Guide Tips for visiting the ancient city of Anuradhapura

go as early as possible .

We will admit, that we are not the biggest early birds ourselves, but we were able to adapt our rhythm in Sri Lanka naturally. We often woke up with the sunlight coming through the windows and the sound of the birds chirping. In the end, it really pays off to get the most out of your days here! So try to start your days around 7 am -8 am to start exploring. This way you will beat the heat (it’s starting to get really hot around noon) and avoid the big crowds . In the early morning, you will mostly see locals and devotees going for prayers in the temples, which is a fascinating experience to be a part of!

Get around by tuk-tuk or bicycle

Don’t underestimate the distances between the different heritage sites in the old city of Anuradhapura. If you want to get the most out of your day ticket, we advise against walking to the sights in the scorching sun. When researching our trip we saw people recommending to rent a bicycle , to go from temple to temple. This is a great way to soak up the atmosphere and get some movement in. A lot of guesthouses or hotels offer this as a service and there are enough bicycle rentals along the road. Renting a bike will cost you around 500 LKR (~ €2,5) for the day . Definitely a good option if your stay isn’t too far from the ancient city. Don’t forget to drive on the left side of the road ;).

However, we personally decided against it, considering the heat (it’s typically above 30 degrees) and huge distances (the terrain is over 40 km²). To be able to see the most and not get a heat stroke we recommend renting a tuk-tuk with a driver that takes you around. This costs around 3500 LKR for the whole tour which takes about 5 hours. We found the best way is to ask your host or hotel for help (They usually have somebody reliable available). Make sure to specify if you want a guided driver or somebody, who just drops you off at every place. Taking a guided driver is a plus as you get to know more about the history, background stories, and culture. This really makes your visit to this ancient town complete.

Bring socks

It’s a good idea to bring a pair of socks (white works best) since you will be walking barefoot a lot and the grounds can get really hot and rocky. It might not look fashionable under a dress but you will thank me later! It’s of course allowed to wear your slippers/shoes outside the temple area. Often, the moment you have to take them off is indicated on a sign. We always took the Buddhist flags as a rough indication of where to walk barefoot.

Temple etiquette

Since the major sites are considered sacred, it’s important to prepare yourself and dress modestly. Just like any other holy place in the world, this is out of respect for the culture and simply you might not be allowed to enter otherwise.

When entering a temple site or a sacred place, remove your shoes and hat . It makes sense to wear suitable clothing from the start since you need to cover your upper arms and knees . So for women, long dresses with a little sleeve come in handy. It’s always handy to bring a sarong or light scarf when you are wearing a top or shorts. This is both for men and women.
You will notice that a lot of Sri Lankan pilgrims are wearing white in the temples. The color white is considered a holy color and stands for purity in Buddhism and openness to learning So in case you are carrying something white with you, that’s a good option to go with. It also helps reflect strong sunlight, another tip ;).
Photography – Of course, it’s allowed to take pictures, but there is one important rule: N ever stand with your back to a Buddha statue or stupa (think about selfies!).
When you are visiting a dagoba or stupa, remember to walk around the dome clockwise . As that is usually the way worshippers take when walking around the monument.

Also, don’t forget to hydrate often in that heat, for example with a delicious refreshing coconut from one of the food stands. These tips from our Travel Guide Anuradhapura should help you get around!

Travel Guide Anuradhapura: Where to stay?

The location of your stay might be an important thing to consider. If you are opting to see the archaeological complex by bike, you want to stay as close as possible to it. Also considering going for dinner or grabbing a snack, it is a nice option to go by foot and not always have to grab a tuk-tuk. So ideally you should look to book your accommodation downtown or in the surrounding area. As for most of our stays in Sri Lanka, we opted to go for a guesthouse stay with a local family . Not only is this way of accommodation more affordable, but it also gives you the chance to connect to locals and have a more authentic experience.

BOOK ACCOMMODATION | See all hotels & guesthouse stays in Anuradhapura HERE

Water Front Home Stay

We stayed at the Water Front Home Stay , which is the best example of an excellent and heartwarming homestay. The owner, Wasantha was the friendliest and most helpful host we could have wished for in Sri Lanka. He and his family made us feel right at home. From a delicious welcome drink, and great conversations about Sri Lanka’s culture to an amazing authentic dinner. Every dish was carefully prepared and explained, we really recommend having dinner there!

The room itself was absolutely clean and very quiet since its location is far enough from the busy roads, yet close enough to restaurants. It also comes with air conditioning and a fan, excellent WiFi and the bathroom is clean and spacious. These are generally points important to us when booking and the Waterfront Home Stay really ticked off all the boxes. We paid €25 a night, which included a very nice breakfast, which was so worth its value.

Another option we were looking at was Heaven Upon Rice Fields , a charming guest house stay located right between the rice fields. This place has really good reviews too and the rooms look spacious and clean, with a wonderful view over the surroundings. However its location is a bit more north and away from the center with all its restaurants, so you might need to take a tuk-tuk every time.

Travel Guide Anuradhapura: Where & what to eat?

Although Anuradhapura is not like Ella with all its hipster and Instagramable places, it still offers good quality spots to eat out. The city is overall less touristic, so you will love it for its peacefulness and pleasant atmosphere. We really enjoyed going for some fresh juices and milkshakes near the Kumbichchan Kulama lake . Here you can find several juice bars lined up next to the water where a lot of families gather. After our day exploring the old town, we found ourselves having refreshments at Fresh juice bar . They offer a wide variety of juices to choose from, for only 180 rupees each (~ less than €1). You can imagine we let ourselves go a little.

Recommended restaurants in Anuradhapura

Downtown you can find most of the restaurants. We heard good things about Gemi Gedara Restaurant where they offer a lunch buffet and traditional Sri Lankan dishes. The setting is truly beautiful, with its open spaces and wooden tables in a treehouse-looking area. Another favorite is Ambula , north of the lake, which also offers an all-day buffet with all kinds of curries and rice platters. The setting of the restaurant is really cozy with its timber and palm leaves aesthetic.

On our first evening in Anuradhapura, we didn’t want to go too far from our stay and opted to have dinner at Bro Restaurant . It’s a rather new restaurant and they give a modern twist to traditional dishes. We had the chicken Kothu and devilish chicken , both Sri Lankan favorites, which were outstanding (be careful, the devilish chicken is super spicy!). We paid around 1700 rupees (~€7,5) for both of us, which is a bit more pricy by Sri Lankan standards but the portions were huge.

Dinner at your guesthouse

However, we genuinely recommend trying to have dinner at your guest homestay if they offer it! Like we did at the Water Front Homestay , an amazing authentic experience. They usually serve a traditional Sri Lankan curry, which differs totally from an Indian kind if that’s what you are visualizing. It consists of several small dishes, mostly vegetables as you can see in the picture. At our homestay, we had lentil curry (or Dal), cucumber curry, and coconut sambal with poppadoms.

They usually ask you if you want a fish or chicken curry with that. We noticed that the meat portions are on the smaller side in Sri Lanka since there is less going around and they tend to eat more vegetarian. But overall the served portions are more than enough, no worries! The owner explained all the dishes and even surprised us with a homemade dessert, buffalo custard with locally made syrup. Absolutely divine! After that, we almost ordered it every time when we saw it on the menu.

Travel Guide Anuradhapura: How to get to Anuradhapura?

How to get to anuradhapura from colombo / negombo.

If you have just arrived in Sri Lanka and you planned the north-to-south loop, the best way to get from Colombo to Anuradhapura:

Bus: 200 LKR (~€ 1), 5-6 hours

Overall bus transportation is one of the cheapest ways to get around. It will probably cost you around 200 LKR. Keeping traffic in mind, you will be looking at around 6 hours of travel time, also depending on the bus line you take (15, 57, or 4). You can check the following website for bus lines and schedules. However, we suggest double-checking your bus at the bus station (Pettah bus stand near Fort Station).

Train: 240-370 LKR (~€ 1,5-€2), 5-6 hours

This option is the quickest and most budget-friendly way to get to Anuradhapura. It will take you around 5,5 hours and costs roughly 240-370 LKR. For the schedule of the trains, check the following website . You can easily buy your tickets directly at Colombo Fort train station, but for booking online we recommend using 12Go Asia . Note: Online prices will be higher compared to buying at the train station.

Pick Me Taxi: 9,000 LKR (~€ 40), 4 hours

This is the most comfortable option, but it also comes with a price. The Pick Me app (the equivalent to Uber) is mostly available in the bigger cities, so you can order one upon arrival through the app. The drive takes around 3 to 4 hours and will cost you around 9,000 LKR.

Tuktuk: 6,000 LKR (~€ 30), 5 hours

The most common way of transportation throughout Sri Lanka, however, may be less advisable for longer distances.

How to get to Anuradhapura from Dambulla / Sigirya?

There is no train line running between Anuradhapura and Dambulla . Also, the option of an Uber is less likely in these areas. Next to renting a private car or tuk-tuk, the bus will be your best option . Local buses between Dambulla and Anuradhapura run quite frequently, usually every 20min. However, from personal experience, we can tell you this is not always the case. Public transport usually doesn’t show up on time and we had to wait an hour in the past as well due to the fact that the bus was overcrowded. Anyways, if you are coming from Sigiriya or Dambulla, head over to the main junction in Dambulla and get on bus number 42 or 43 (line Kandy – Vavuniya) heading north to Anuradhapura. We suggest taking the 43 since it’s the only one with AC ;). The drive only takes 1,5 hours and costs 400 LKR per person .

How to guide your travel to Anuradhapura from Kandy?

If you are traveling from Kandy you will have to travel the same way as from Dambulla, since it’s the same bus line.

BOOK TRANSPORTATION | Book a train, bus or taxi to Anuradhapura with 12Go Asia HERE

We hope this travel guide to Anuradhapura was helpful and inspires you to discover this ancient city in Sri Lanka! Let us know in the comments what you think! You can show some ❤ and support for the blog and help us share more adventures! Our travels are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated. It allows us to keep writing helpful travel guides and gather information to make it easier for people to discover the world.

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The Complete Travel Guide to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Anuradhapura is one of the most unique towns I have ever been to. Its significance in Sri Lankan culture, religion, and history is impossible to overstate. Despite boasting some of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful and impressive attractions, it maintains an off-the-beaten-path vibe. There are still relatively very few international tourists to this part of Sri Lanka, although its religious significance makes it a big destination for pilgrimages and devotees.

This post contains affiliate links. That means that I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links.

Is anuradhapura worth visiting, how to get to anuradhapura, where to stay in anuradhapura, things to do in anuradhapura, the best way to see the ruins of anuradhapura.

This was one of the questions I had to keep Googling before deciding whether or not I would go to Anuradhapura. I prefer slow travel and spending a lot of time in a few places, and with only three weeks to spend in Sri Lanka, I wanted to narrow my trip down to five or six cities at most. Ella, Kandy, Sigiriya, Arugam Bay and several national park visits didn’t leave room for much else.

However, I decided to just go for it and hopefully figure it out some more along the way. I’m glad I decided to go because Anuradhapura is definitely worth the visit. It is scenic, peaceful, and can at times feel like a surreal experience. I’ve never been to a countryside where massive stupas and dagobas jutted out in the distance. My first sunset in Anuradhapura confirmed to me that I had made the right decision.

Slowly cruising down the countryside on my bicycle as I passed by ruins and friendly waving locals was unlike anything I had ever done before. The golden glow of the setting sun added to the surreal experience. Everywhere you looked, there were remnants of a long-gone era, from crumbling ruins to still-towering stupas. I encountered hardly any other tourists while I was in Anuradhapura although it is pretty well set up for tourism. If you’re questioning whether to put Anuradhapura on your Sri Lankan itinerary, I would 100% recommend it. You don’t need more than two days to see all of the major things. If you are short on time, it might even be possible to take a fast-paced day trip from Dambulla.

Anuradhapura is in the northern-central part of this island country. Aside from Jaffna, it might be the northernmost tourist destination in Sri Lanka. This makes it a great place to kick off a north-to-south loop or cap off a south-to-north loop.

How To Get To Anuradhapura From Colombo

You can take the train from Colombo Fort up to Anuradhapura . It takes about five and a half hours. You can also take a bus, which will take about the same amount of time but might be more or less depending on how traffic is.

How To Get To Anuradhapura From Kandy

You can take the bus to Dambulla and then take another bus up to Anuradhapura. There are also direct buses going all the way up to Anuradhapura from Kandy.

How To Get To Anuradhapura From Dambulla or Sigiriya

Local buses go to Anuradhapura from Dambulla quite frequently. Get to the main bus stop in Dambulla and wait for a bus heading north to Anuradhapura. I know that sounds self-explanatory and simple but public transportation in Sri Lanka is unbelievably easy. You’ll get the hang of it quickly.

Oh, and before you go, make sure to have good travel insurance handy. I use SafetyWing to keep me covered throughout my travels.

Location is the important thing to consider. You want to be close enough to the archaeological complex that the bike ride isn’t too grueling to get there. The accommodation in Anuradhapura is very cheap but very standard. I booked a private room at Hotel Freedom Palace for $16 USD a night. It had Wi-Fi and air conditioning, although neither really worked. For the price though, it was tough to beat. Most of the places in Anuradhapura will have weak Wi-Fi and only offer the most basic of amenities.

However, as you will come to find in Sri Lanka, the staff are always accommodating and eager to help in any way they can. Most places will have bikes available to rent, which is the best way to explore the ruins.

A lot of the accommodation in Anuradhapura might also not show up online. I saw fliers advertising rooms to stay in for as low as 500 LKR, or less than $3 USD. Although I’ll admit, even as a budget backpacker, I was not particularly keen to find out why those rooms were so cheap… If you have more courage than I do, let me know how your experience was.

A few more hostels have popped up on Hostelworld since I was in Anuradhapura, so those might also be worth checking out.

The main thing to do in Anuradhapura is explore the immense archaeological ruins and impressive religious sites. There are a number of ways to do this, although I highly recommend renting a bike and taking it at your own pace.

The entrance fee for the archaeological complex of Anuradhapura is $25. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its status and significance as a major center for Buddhism. It is also one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It truly makes you feel like you’ve been transported to an entirely different time period as you explore. Seriously, I felt like I was on a Star Wars planet half the time.

The Best Things To See In Anuradhapura

Jaya sri maha bodhi.

This is one of the holiest sites in Sri Lanka. It is home to the oldest historically-authenticated trees in the world, the sacred fig tree believed to be where Buddha attained Enlightenment.

Abhayagiri Dagoba

This is one of the holiest and most magnificent monasteries in the world. It is also one of the oldest, founded in the 2nd Century BC.

The Moonstone

This Moonstone is the second largest in Sri Lanka and one of the best-preserved. It is just a quick ride away from Abhayagiri Dagoba towards the north of the Archaeologocial Complex.

Kuttam Pokuna

The name Kuttam Pokuna means Twin Ponds, a fitting name for these two pools next to each other. Kuttam Pokuna is considered to be one of the most significant achievements by the early Sinhalese in terms of hydrological and architectural engineering.

Thuparamaya

This is the first Buddhist temple in all of Sri Lanka. This stupa is the first to be constructed in Sri Lanka, dating back to the 3rd Century BC.

Jetavanaramaya Dagaba

This is the world’s tallest stupa, standing at a gargantuan height of 122 meters (400 feet). At the time it was built, it was the third-tallest structure in the entire world, ranking behind only the Pyramids of Giza and the Lighthouse of Alexandria.

Ruwanwelisaya Stupa

This stupa is another one of the ancient world’s tallest structures. It stands at a gargantuan 103 meters (338 feet) tall. Ruwanwelisaya Stupa is also home to some of Buddhism’s most sacred relics.

Mirisawetiya Stupa

This is another of Anuradhupara’s most beautiful stupas. It is a bit further away from the main complex but very peaceful compared to the other places.

Sri Sarananda Maha Pirivena

This temple is home to a large Buddha and is right on the edge of the Anuradhpura archaeological site. It was my first stop, and a quick walk through the temple’s “museum” sort of thing helped give me a good introduction to the history of religion here, despite mostly trying to decipher the pictures since it was all written in Sinhala.

Isurumuniya Rajamaha Viharaya

This Buddhist temple is carved into a rock and is one of the beautiful sites in Anuradhapura. It is home to many famous carvings, like the Isurumuniya Lovers, Elephant Pond, and Royal Family.

There are four main ways to see the immense Anuradhapura archaeological site.

Exploring Anuradhapura By Foot

No, just no. This is too ambitious in the sizzling Sri Lankan heat. Anuradhapura is massive and spread out. The only situation that this makes sense in is if you only want to see a small portion of the complex.

From the ticket office, you can cover the museum, the ruins behind the museum, the Jethawanaramaya Dagaba, and then walk over to the Bodhi tree and Ruwanwelisaya Stupa. Those are two of the main areas of the ruins and I’d say you would easily get your $25 worth just seeing those two complexes.

Exploring Anuradhapura By Bike

This is how I did it and I couldn’t recommend it enough. It gives you freedom and versatility, a little bit more speed, and it is the most affordable of the wheeled options. The best part is the feeling of wonder and freedom as you cruise through the Sri Lankan countryside. You get to see a lot more, including things that you would not have noticed if you were inside a car.

Renting a bike costs about 500LKR or $3 USD. All in all, the heat and exertion of effort is the only drawback. However, you can break your excursion through Anuradhapura up into chunks. I started early in the morning, around 7 AM before the sun started getting too hot. I took a quick break in the afternoon before heading off for a second round of exploring at around 4 PM.

Exploring Anuradhapura By Tuk-Tuk

I was originally considering going by tuk-tuk just because of the sheer size of Anuradhapura. However, I read online about an experience someone had with dishonest tuk-tuk drivers who bypassed the ticket offices and take you to the less impressive structures where there would be fewer security guards checking for tickets.

Although the price of $25 might seem steep, it is essential to preserving and restoring these beautiful and majestic ruins. I accidentally bypassed the ticket office as well on my early morning bike ride through the archaeological site but made sure to head straight to the ticket office in the evening before I ventured off to the other sites that I had not hit yet. You’ll get your money’s worth. Don’t worry.

Exploring Anuradhapura By Car:

This is definitely one of the more ideal options if you have the money to spend and know where to rent a car. However, I can imagine that it is much more expensive than any of the other options. While you will be able to see the ruins much faster and much more comfortably, I think it takes away a little bit of the fun of just cycling through the Sri Lankan countryside with ruins flanking you on each side. It was one of the most surreal experiences I’ve ever had, especially when the setting sun started to hit the monumental stupas and dagobas with its golden glow.

If I haven’t made it clear yet, my personal opinion is that seeing Anuradhapura by bike is the way to go. Actually, Anuradhapura is the way to go. If you have been wondering whether or not to make a visit to this incredibly historic and cultural city, then I’ll make your decision for you. Yes.

The city of Anuradhapura is more off-the-beaten-path than other touristic cities in Sri Lanka. It was my first stop and it is still one of my favorites. It gave me a glimpse into the authentic way of life of Sri Lanka before being overwhelmed by the more tourist-riddled destinations. The rural landscapes, jaw-dropping architectural achievements, and cultural significance make it one of the most unique and unforgettable cities I have ever been to.

If this post helped you out, show some love and support for the blog and help keep my adventures going by buying me a beer ! My adventures are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated, and allows me to keep writing helpful travel guides and creating travel content to help you all travel the world on a budget.

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Also make sure to check out the ruins of Polonnaruwa while you are in Sri Lanka.

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19 Best Places To Visit In Anuradhapura In 2024

Last Updated: April 4, 2024
Asia , Destinations , Sri Lanka

The ancient city of Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most historically, culturally, and religiously significant places in Sri Lanka. It’s packed full of important monasteries, monuments, and other sights.

Some of the top highlights include the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree (believed to be the oldest living human-planted tree in the world), the massive Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, and the beautiful Isurumuniya Vihara Temple, known for its rock carvings.

I’ve explored Anuradhapura extensively and love how much history and culture there is around every corner. There’s something special in the air here.

However, unless you have a week to spend here, you’ll need to be selective. That’s why I’ve written this guide to the best places to visit in Anuradhapura. I hope it helps you get the most out of your time in the city.

Table of Contents

Best Places to Visit in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Founded in the 5th century BC , Anuradhapura was the capital of Sri Lanka for nearly 1,400 years – from 377 BC to the 11th century AD. Parts of the city are more than 2,500 years old and there’s a lot to see.

To help you plan your visit, here’s my pick of the best things to see in Anuradhapura.

🤩 Short for time? Check out this excellent value day tour of Anuradhapura’s most famous sights

1. Sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Tree

Located within the Mahamewna Gardens, in the historic centre of Anuradhapura, Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is a sacred fig tree that holds immense religious significance.

It’s believed to be a sapling from the original Bodhi tree in India under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. It’s also said to be over 2,250 years old, making it the oldest documented tree in the world.

Most of the ancient city of Anuradhapura was structured and built around this sacred tree.

Today, pilgrims and visitors gather around the Bodhi tree to pay their respects, meditate, and offer prayers, food, and flowers.

The serene environment, the sounds of chanting pilgrims, and the colourful prayer flags create a deeply spiritual atmosphere.

People sell flowers at a few places along the road leading up to the Sri Maha Bodhi tree. If you like, you can buy some and leave them on the tables and altars around the edge of the sacred tree.

It’s a really special and moving place.

I came here twice – once at the end of the day, and the second time early in the morning. It was especially atmospheric at sunset, and if you have the chance to visit at that time I’d highly recommend it.

It’s one of the most unique and important places to visit in Anuradhapura – don’t miss it.

Location: 89VW+WVH, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Opening times: 6:15 am–9 pm, Mon–Sun

2. Ruwanweli Maha Seya (also known as Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba)

The Ruwanweli Maha Seya is an enormous ancient stupa (or “dagoba”) and another of the most important pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka. It’s also one of the largest stupas in the country.

Built around the 2nd century BC, the towering dome stands approximately 91 metres tall. It’s painted a brilliant white and can be seen from many different parts of the city.

Buddhists from all over the world come here to prey, give offerings, and partake in various other religious rituals.

Ruwanweli Maha Seya is definitely one of my favourite places to visit in Anuradhapura. Standing there, among the chanting pilgrims, I felt an indescribable energy that moved me in a way I can’t describe.

As I walked slowly around the stupa with the pilgrims and devotees, they made me feel so welcome. Many said hello, waved, or simply smiled at me as I went past.

As I made my way around, I couldn’t help but wonder how many people had done this before throughout history. It was wonderful to feel the peace and tranquility of this amazing place.

It felt like time stood still in a timeless place.

Everything about the experience was very powerful and is one that will stay with me forever.

Location: 992W+2G9, Abhayawewa Rd, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Opening times: 5:30 am–9 pm, Mon–Sun

🤩 This is an excellent (and excellent value) day tour of Anuradhapura

3. Isurumuniya Rajamaha Viharaya Temple

Isurumuniya Rajamaha Viharaya Temple is a historic Buddhist temple that’s known for its ancient rock carvings, including the famous Isurumuniya Lovers’ Carving.

The temple complex is partly carved out of a giant boulder and features a number of serene ponds and beautiful statues. In addition to its beauty, the temple holds great religious significance for Buddhists.

It was built between 307–267 BC, making it one of the oldest significant sites in Anuradhapura. It’s also believed to have been the first temple to house the sacred relic of the tooth of Buddha , which is now inside the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy .

When I visited, the place was full of pilgrims of all ages who had come here to pray, give offerings, and soak up the beautiful and spiritual ambience.

The Lovers’ Carving is housed inside one of the side buildings and depicts an intimate embrace between two figures. (You aren’t allowed to take photos inside here sadly.)

As well as this famous carving, there are many other examples of exquisite ancient craftsmanship, including rock carvings, woodwork, artefacts, and a number of beautiful frescoes.

There’s also a colony of bats that lives inside one of the caves. They’re cute (but very loud)!

With its rich history and spiritual importance, you should definitely include this temple in your Anuradhapura itinerary.

Location: 89MR+R4J, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Opening times: 7:30 am–6:30 pm, Mon–Sun

4. Jetavanaramaya (Jethawanaramaya) Stupa

Jetavanaramaya is one of the most iconic places to visit in Anuradhapura. It forms the focal point of the Jethawanaramaya Monastery Complex.

The majestic stupa was once the tallest building in the world and was built during the 3rd century AD by King Mahasena.

At the time it was built, it was also the third-largest structure in the world (after the two Pyramids of Giza in Egypt). It’s believed to be the tallest stupa ever built and contains over 93 million bricks!

When it was originally constructed, Jetavanaramaya soared to a height of 122 metres (400 ft). Following damage in the 11th century, it now stands at 71 metres but is still very impressive.

Running around the edge, there is a large terrace with guard stones and an intricate carving of a cobra with seven heads. You’ll also see the shrine room, which was built at a later stage and contains several Buddha statues.

Location: b341 Watawandana Rd, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Opening times: 5:30 am–11 pm, Mon–Sun

🤩 Check out this half-day guided tuk-tuk tour of Anuradhapura

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5. Abhayagiri Monastery Complex

The Abhayagiri Monastery was once one of Sri Lanka’s largest and most important monastic complexes. It was established over 2,000 years ago, in the 1st century BC, and has been a major pilgrimage destination ever since.

The Abhayagiri Monastery Complex is one of Anuradhapura’s three main monastery complexes. As well as housing up to 5,000 monks at its height, it was also an important library and theological centre.

It’s a pretty large site, spread over around 200 hectares.

Although most of the ancient monastery complex now lies in ruins, many of its most prominent features are still fairly well preserved. Many artifacts uncovered during archaeological excavations have also been displayed around the site.

Wander among the stupas, ponds, halls, and temples and you’ll get a great sense of what this ancient city would have been like 2,000 years ago. Keep an eye out for the various stone carvings, sculptures, and murals.

The Arahant’s chamber, in particular, contains a range of stone inscriptions and murals depicting stories from Buddha’s life.

Location: 999V+WRF, B341, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Note: The following 5 items (Abhayagiriya Stupa, Samadhi Statue, Lankaramaya Dagoba, Ratnaprasada, and Kuttam Pokuna/Twin Ponds) are all found inside the Abhayagiriya Monastery Complex.

I’ve given them their own sections to break things up a bit. But you can easily visit all 5 of them in one go. Allow a couple of hours in total to see them all.

6. Abhayagiriya Stupa

The main stupa of the Abhayagiri Monastery, this towering structure is 75 metres high and made entirely from bricks.

It was damaged over the centuries and was left to ruin, crumbling and becoming gradually more overgrown. However, in the 1980s and 90s, a massive restoration project was undertaken to conserve and repair the stupa.

True to the original construction method, no cement was used in the repair works.

Around the edge of the structure, you’ll find the ruins of a meeting hall, an alms hall, and a hostel that provided monks with shelter and a place to sleep.

Location: 99CW+94C, Watawandana Road, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

7. Samadhi Statue

There are countless statues of Buddha located all over Sri Lanka. But the Samadhi Buddha Statue in Anuradhapura is one of the most famous and important.

This beautiful sculpture is 7 feet tall and depicts Lord Buddha sitting cross-legged and meditating.

It’s located inside the Abhayagiri Monastery complex and was carved at some point around the 5th century AD.

I was really struck by the sculpture’s facial expression. It’s so lifelike and expressive, a perfect representation of serenity and calmness. I found myself gazing at it for quite a long time, utterly transfixed.

This is an iconic symbol of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage and you should definitely include it in your list of places to visit in Anuradhapura.

Location: 999X+X73, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

8. Lankaramaya Dagoba

Lankaramaya Dagoba is one of the smallest major stupas in Anuradhapura. But it has several unusual and unique design features that make it worth checking out.

Most strikingly, it’s surrounded by a ring of carved stone pillars. Archaeologists and historians aren’t certain of the purpose of these pillars, but they might indicate that a structure was built around the stupa, enclosing it inside.

It’s believed that this dagoba was an important meeting place for monks, scholars, and the city’s ancient rulers.

There are a number of beautiful carvings around the edge of the stupa that show stories from ancient Buddhist mythology. Keep an eye out for the elephant carvings, elaborate floral patterns, spirals, and decorative lotus petals.

Location: Lankarama Dagoba, Lankarama Rd, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

9. Ratnaprasada (/Rathna Prasadaya) (or Jewel Palace)

Ratnaprasada, also known as the Jewel Palace, is a fascinating ruin located inside the Abhayagiri Monastery complex.

It was once a grand palace built by King Parakramabahu I and served as a residence for his family and courtiers. The ruins of Ratnaprasada offer a glimpse of what the ancient city would have been like at the height of its power. In terms of scale, grandeur, and opulence, the Jewel Palace would have been virtually unmatched at the time.

Some of its treasures still remain, including various murals stone carvings, and bronze statues.

The Ratnaprasada Moonstone

The famous Ratnaprasada Moonstone is located at the entrance of the palace.

Moonstones are important and unique features of ancient Sri Lankan architecture. They are usually found at the bottom of staircases, and particularly at the entrances of important buildings.

This particular one is a semi-circular stone slab with elaborate carvings arranged in a concentric pattern radiating out from the centre. Look closely and you’ll see lotus flowers, various animals, vines, and flames.

It’s believed that the design layout and the carvings themselves are symbolic of the teachings of Buddha.

Location: 99CR+5FW Abhayagiri Complex, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

10. Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)

Anuradhapura is located in Sri Lanka’s Dry Zone. Droughts have been a common feature of this area for all of its recorded history.

The city’s ancient engineers designed and built a creative solution to these water shortages. They dug two deep reservoirs side by side to collect and store drinking water for use during times of scarcity.

However, Twin Ponds (or Kuttam Pokuna) are not just two large wells. They are in fact an example of fairly advanced hydraulic engineering and were constructed with a series of underground pipes and even an inbuilt filtration system.

As well as being cleverly designed, the Twin Ponds are very beautiful. They have a precise symmetrical design, with elaborate stone carvings, and grand staircases leading down to the water.

Location: 9CC2+9MC, Watawandana Road, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

11. Lovamahapaya (Brazen Palace)

The Lovamahapaya (or Brazen Palace) was once a nine-story building built for monks. At the time it was built (around the 2nd century BC), the Lovamahapaya was thought to have been the tallest building on the island of Sri Lanka.

Each floor had its own purpose, including assembly halls, dwelling places, and an “image house” containing images and statues of Buddha.

Despite being ruined by fire centuries ago, around 1,600 of the stone pillars that supported the building remain standing today.

You definitely need to use your imagination a bit, but this is still an atmospheric and interesting place to visit in Anuradhapura.

There are also gardens surrounding the Lovamahapaya where you can stroll or rest and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Location: 89WX+83X, Sri Maha Bodhi Rd, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

🤩 This is a great guided bicycle tour of Anuradhapura

12. Vessagiriya Cave Temples

Located close to Isurumuniya temple, Vessagiriya is a large and intriguing complex of caves and rock temples.

The caves themselves are home to some well-preserved inscriptions and carvings. These are believed to have been inscribed during the reign of King Vasabha (67-111 AD) and offer a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s cultural history.

For hundreds of years, this place served as a retreat for Buddhist monks. Many of the natural caves have been converted into cells and other rooms for the resident monks.

Vessagiriya is also home to various sacred Bodhi trees, which can be found both within and around the edge of the cave complex.

Visiting the Vessagiriya cave temples is one of the less famous things to do in Anuradhapura. But it’s definitely worth spending at least an hour or so exploring this fascinating site.

Location: Vessagiriya, Anuradhapura – Padeniya Hwy, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Opening times: 7 am–5 pm, Mon–Sun

13. Thuparamaya Dagoba

Part of the oldest Buddhist Temple in Sri Lanka, Thuparamaya Dagoba was built during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd century BC. This is when Buddhism was first introduced to Sri Lanka.

It’s believed to be the first stupa ever built in the country and was built to house a sacred collarbone relic of Buddha. This makes it one of the most important stupas in Anuradhapura, despite its relatively small size.

The whitewashed external structure that you can see today is a restoration that was completed in the 1860s. However, the remains of the original stupa and its important relic are still supposedly housed inside.

It also has some unique design features, like the moonstone which runs around the edge of the stupa and represents the eternal cycle of rebirth according to Buddhism.

It also has a number of other stone carvings and pillars from the original temple structure.

Location: 994W+4HQ, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

14. Ranmasu Uyana (Royal Park)

The Sacred City of Anuradhapura is a vast site and exploring it is hot and tiring work (although absolutely worth it).

If you’re looking for somewhere green and shaded to cool off and relax, head over to Ranmasu Uyana (Royal Park). It’s located close to the Vessagiriya cave temples.

This used to be the royal pleasure garden and is tranquil and peaceful. Three ornamental ponds are fed by a network of underground pipes, and there are several seating areas, elegant pillars, and lots of greenery.

Location: 89QQ+9W9, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

15. Mirisawetiya Dagoba

Mirisawetiya Dagoba is another impressive dagoba in Anurahdapura.

(Yes, there are A LOT of important stupas in Anuradhapura!).

It’s older and smaller than Ruwanweli Maha Seya but is somewhat similar in appearance.

This ancient stupa was built by King Dutugemunu in the 3rd century BC. According to legend, Dutugemunu buried his royal scepter inside the dome.

There are intricate carvings in various places around the edge of the dome.

Here you’ll probably see pilgrims and worshipers offering flowers, chanting, and burning incense. It’s another special and deeply spiritual place.

Location: 89VQ+XHH, Old Puttalam Rd, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

16. Nuwarawewa Lake

Nuwarawewa Lake is the largest human-made lake in Anuradhapura. It was constructed over 2,000 years ago, mainly to conserve water given the city’s hot and dry climate.

It was built by damming a local river and diverting the water into a giant tank. The tank itself was formed of a naturally-occurring depression, with an artificial steep-sided embankment built around the edge.

It’s huge – approximately 5 kilometres long and over a kilometre wide at its narrowest point.

A path runs along a large stretch of the shore embankment, and it’s a perfect place for a stroll in tranquil surroundings.

I saw a few local people swimming here too. I have no idea whether it’s technically allowed or not, but it seems like you can!

Location: Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

17. Tissa Wewa

Tissa Wewa is another large reservoir, located directly behind Isurumuniya temple.

Smaller than Nuwarawewa Lake, but just as old, it was built mainly to supply the city with water for agriculture.

Today, it’s a calm and beautiful spot for a walk and to take in the views of the surrounding area. You can see several of the city’s giant stupas from here.

There are still rice paddies dotted around the edge of the lake, where this staple food is grown today just like it was in ancient times.

Tissa Wewa is still an important source of fish for local villagers too, and you’ll probably see a few people fishing here, either in little boats or from the shores.

Tissa Wewa is also a great place for birdwatchers. It’s home to a wide range of endemic and migratory birds, such as bitterns, kingfishers, cormorants, egrets, woodpeckers, pelicans, herons, and storks.

18. Mihintale Mountain

Located about 11 kilometres east of Anuradhapura railway station, Mihintale is a sacred mountain that’s believed to be the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

It’s an important pilgrimage site and one of the best places to visit near Anuradhapura. Partly for its historical, cultural, and religious significance. But also for the panoramic views of the surrounding area from its summit.

Sri Lankan Buddhists believe that this is the place where the Indian monk and missionary Mahinda met King Devanampiyatissa and converted him to Buddhism in 247 BC.

On top of the mountain, there is a giant white statue of Buddha in a seated position as well as a large white stupa, plus a number of shrines and cave temples.

To reach the summit, there’s a steep path (with around 1,840 steps) that was built more than 2,000 years ago. It’s well worth making a detour to visit this place on your way to or from Anuradhapura.

It can also be reached as an easy half-day trip from Anuradhapura, with regular buses running between the two. You can even take the bus directly from Anuradhapura train station to Mihintale and back again.

Location: Mihintale, Sri Lanka

🤩 I love this half-day tour of Mihintale from Anuradhapura (includes transport)

19. (BONUS) – Wilpattu National Park

Okay, it’s not technically in Anuradhapura, but Wilpattu is my favourite national park in Sri Lanka. You can also easily visit it as a (half or full) day trip from Anuradhapura, so I thought I’d include it here.

Wilpattu National Park is the largest and oldest national park in the country. It’s home to some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, elephants, crocodiles, water buffalo, spotted deer, and mongooses.

I highly recommend taking a jeep safari tour of Wilpattu . Your driver will take you deep into the heart of the park where you’ll get to enjoy the beautiful natural scenery and spot a range of exciting wildlife.

Of course, sightings aren’t guaranteed – these are wild animals after all.

But when I did a safari in Wilpattu I was lucky enough to spot all of the above animals and many more too. Leopards and sloth bears are particularly shy and elusive, so I was thrilled to see these amazing animals in the wild.

Most Wilpattu safari tours can be arranged to pick you up from your accommodation in Anuradhapura. It’s very easy and convenient.

I’ve done several jeep safari trips in Sri Lanka – including at the more popular Yala National Park – and the one in Wilpattu was the best by far.

There’s a similarly amazing range of animals, but a tiny fraction of the number of other visitors. It’s way less crowded, much wilder, and the animals seemed overall more relaxed and not stressed out.

In Wilpattu, I only saw another 8 or 9 safari jeeps all day. In Yala there are hundreds, all jostling for position to get the best sightings.

If you only have the chance to go on one safari during your time in Sri Lanka, I definitely recommend picking Wilpattu.

🤩 Check out this excellent full-day Wilpattu National Park safari (pickup & dropoff in Anuradhapura)

Location: Wilpattu National Park, Pahala Maragahawewa, Sri Lanka

Opening times: 6 am–6 pm, Mon–Sun

How to Get to Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is a major city in Sri Lanka and there are several different ways to get there.

The cheapest method is usually to take a public bus. You can get direct buses to Anuradhapura from many different places, including Colombo , Kandy , Trincomalee , Dambulla (close to Sigiriya), and Jaffna .

Bring cash to buy your tickets on the bus.

Anuradhapura also has a fairly major train station. Services running from Colombo to Jaffna all stop here so it’s easy to reach from either city by train.

If you’re pressed for time and don’t have a particularly tight budget, travelling by taxi, Uber or tuk-tuk will probably save you time and effort.

When in doubt about the cost of a taxi or similar, it often pays to ask the people where you’re staying as they should be able to give you an idea of a fair price to pay for your trip.

Additionally, they may even know someone who can take you on your journey and provide you with an even better fare. This happened to me on several occasions – you just need to ask.

Another way to visit Anuradhapura is to join a tour that will take you there (and possibly to other surrounding attractions too). This is one of the most expensive options, but is very convenient so might be good for people with less time.

🤩 This is an amazing 7-day tour of Sri Lanka’s “Cultural Triangle”

If you’re coming from Kandy, check out this private and fully-customisable day tour .

You can even book a private transfer to Anuradhapura direct from Colombo Airport.

However, my personal favourite option for getting around Sri Lanka is to hire your own tuk-tuk and drive yourself. I did this a few times during my 4 months in Sri Lanka.

It’s definitely the most fun way to get about and allows you to explore as much as you want at your own pace.

If you’re interested in doing this, I’d highly recommend going with Tuk Tuk Ceylon Ride . Their customer service is fantastic, they sort out all the necessary permits, and they’re generally better value than the more popular tuktukrental.com .

If they don’t have any availability, another option could be this highly-reviewed tuk-tuk rental company .

Where to Stay in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura has a wide range of places to stay, with something to suit all budgets and preferences.

An excellent budget option is Ceylonima Home Stay .

I’ve personally stayed here and it’s simple but very comfortable, spotlessly clean, and great value. The rooms have air-con and outdoor terraces, the hosts are friendly and welcoming, and they do delicious food too.

If you’re looking for a highly-reviewed mid-range option, check out Aryana Boutique Hotel .

If cost isn’t an issue, Uga Ulagalla is a beautiful high-end resort with several luxurious private villas located just south of Anuradhapura.

🤩 Click here to check prices and availability of all other Anuradhapura accommodation on Booking.com

FAQs About Visiting Anuradhapura

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about visiting Anuradhapura.

Is Anuradhapura worth visiting?

Yes, Anuradhapura is definitely worth visiting. It’s home to many of the country’s most important historical, cultural, and religious sites and is a fascinating place to explore.

Why is Anuradhapura important?

Anuradhapura served as the capital of Sri Lanka for almost 1,400 years. It was a major political, cultural, and religious centre and contains many of the country’s most important ancient monuments.

Which are the best places to visit in Anuradhapura?

The most important places to visit in Anuradhapura are the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, Ruwanweli Maha Seya, Isurumuniya Rajamaha Viharaya Temple, Jetavanaramaya, Mirisawetiya Dagoba, Lovamahapaya (the Brazen Palace), Lankaramaya, Abhayagiriya Stupa, and Thuparamaya.

What’s the best time of year to visit Anuradhapura?

Anuradhapura is an incredible destination year-round. However, if possible, I recommend coming during the cooler months between December and March.

Sightseeing and exploring the temples will be much more comfortable and pleasant then, although it will still probably be quite hot.

What is the dress code for Anuradhapura?

Be respectful of local customs and dress modestly. When visiting the temples and sacred sites, both men and women need to cover their knees and shoulders.

Either wear comfortable loose-fitting long trousers or bring a sarong to tie around your waist.

You also need to take off your shoes when visiting many sites throughout the sacred city.

Hint: The ground can get extremely hot during the day, so I’d recommend bringing a pair of socks to protect the soles of your feet if you’re not used to walking around barefoot!

What are the Eight Sacred Places of Anuradhapura?

The Eight Sacred Places (or Atamasthana ) of Anuradhapura are the eight most sacred sites in the ancient city.

These are: the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, Ruwanweli Maha Seya, Thuparamaya, Abhayagiriya Stupa, Lankaramaya, Jetavanaramaya, Lovamahapaya (the Brazen Palace), and Mirisawetiya Dagoba.

What time of day to visit Anuradhapura?

It’s best to get up early and see as much as you can in the morning before it gets too hot.

I recommend finding somewhere cool (and ideally air-conditioned) to rest and avoid the heat of the day. Then, you can reemerge and continue exploring when the temperature is more bearable again.

How many days do you need in Anuradhapura?

How much time to spend in Anuradhapura depends largely on your interests and priorities. If you’re looking to get a good overview of the city’s main ancient sites, temples, and monasteries, two or three full days should be enough time.

🤩 This is an excellent tour of Anuradhapura’s most famous sights

Final Thoughts

Anuradhapura is a special place that will stay with you long after you leave. From the amazing ruins to the buzzing spiritual atmosphere, there are so many things to experience, explore, and enjoy in this ancient city.

Sometimes I find ancient ruins can feel a little dead and detached from the current day. But Anuradhapura is totally different.

It’s a living, breathing place that’s just as important to people today as it was over 2,000 years ago.

Whatever your beliefs, it’s a totally unique place to visit and well worth it.

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25 Places to visit in Anuradhapura

Ruwanweliseya is one the places to visit in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka's first capital city, Even known as the Sacred City of Anuradhapura, is located in Northern Central Province, Sri Lanka. Anuradhapura is renowned for Archaeological sites, civilisation, food and attractions placed upon an iconic inheritance setting.

Anuradhapura is a sacred city founded in the 4th century B.C. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982 under the name of the Sacred City of Anuradhapura. The centre of Theravada Buddhism for many centuries. Theravada Buddhism is a fork of Buddhism resting on its faith's oldest written Buddhist text.

The city of Anuradhapura held the capital city for the ethnic Sinhalese society from the 4th century B.C. till the beginning of the 11th century A.D. It remained one of the most stable centres of political power in South Asia throughout this time.

This early city is considered sacred to the Buddhist world. The town plays religious significance because it retains a cutting from the 'tree of enlightenment, the Buddha's fig tree which, was carried in the 3rd century B.C. by Sanghamitta – the originator of an array of Buddhist nuns.

Artificial lakes extending along the horizon, stupas that touched the sky and performed as data communications, dwellings atop rocks decorated with elaborate sculpture, water gardens and futuristic settings of technologies and stargates are just a few construction festivals of the ancient Sinhalese. Enhanced with Buddhism brought down from India approximately three thousand years before Sri Lankan technicians and artisans built unique breath-taking constructions in the ancient society. Formulated with bricks and carved with stones, these productions observed in the ancient city of Anuradhapura continues to astound the world. Here are some of the finest places to visit in Anuradhapura.

Ruwanwelisaya Stupa is a sizeable white stupa that predates the Jetavanarama stupa by over 1000 years. King Dutugemunu, who became king after defeating King Elara, managed its construction in 161 B.C. Wistfully, he did not live long enough to view its achievement. The gleaming white building is pretty extensive, with a height of 91.4 meters and a perimeter of 290 meters. It is the second-highest stupa in Anuradhapura and remains an influential site of worship. More Details

Jetawanaramaya was built by King Mahasen (276-303 AC). King Mahasen was a follower of Mahayana Buddhism. Jetavanarama is unique because of its massive stupa. The premises where the Jetavanarama is located earlier referred to Nandana Park. It is the area where Thera Mahinda preached the Dhamma for seven continuous days. Concluded with all the structures required for a monastery, buildings here, in addition to those built by King Mahasen, had been constructed by Kitisirimevan (303-331 AC) and kings who worked him. More Details

The Isurumuniya Viharaya is located near Tisa Wewa in Anuradhapura. There is a Viharaya attached to a cave, and above is a rock. A small stupa is established on it. Isurumuniya is renowned for its stone carvings, and the one is recognised as Isurumuniya Lovers is the most-admired and world-famous. The different carvings are of the Horseman, Elephant Pond and the Royal Family. The Isurumuniya Viharaya was built through the regime of Devanampiya Tissa, who ruled the ancient capital Anuradhapura. The Temple was created as a spiritual complex to house recently orientated monks. Some consider Isurumuni lovers are a representative of Hindu Gods Shiva and Parvati. However, according to Dr Paranawithana, it is thought that it’s a depiction of Prince Saliya, son of King Dutugemunu and Asokamala, a poor woman whom the prince preferred over the throne. The Bathing Elephants are different stone carvings favoured by several, and they make an extraordinary impact as you enter the temple premises. But, the carvings differ in their reproduction. Hence it is assumed that two artists did the work with varied techniques at various ages. The Man and the Horse is slightly ambiguous, and a man seated next to a horse is carved into the rock face over the pond. The man sits in a “King position”. His left arm extends vertically under where the hand is placed palm downwards. His right arm rests on his right leg bent at the knee. More Details

There is an unusual and unexplained artefact of an old civilisation of Si Lanka built on the rock in Ranmasu Uyana, also known as Gold Fish Park, found in the ancient city of Anuradhapura. This artefact is called Sekwala Chakraya, moreover identified as The Star Gate of Sri Lanka. Magul Uyana, the Royal Pleasure Gardens, lies on large rock stones and some caves. Engraved on the steep rock face of these boulders is a puzzling sight: a large circular diagram with a span nearly two metres in diameter. The circle is filled with different Opes of symbols and patterns- linear and circular in design. The most immediate reference to this artery curving was by H.C.P Bell, the first Archaeological Commissioner of Sri Lanka (1890-1912). It is assigned to in his 1901 Archaeology Survey Report of the North Central and Central Provinces. It is combined with the exploratory work he carried out in the area around the Isurumuniya Temple. More Details

Vessagiriya Buddhist forest monastery complex was built in the 3rd-century BC by King Devanampiyatissa. Twenty-three cases have been found in the complex. The legend implies it was supposed to be larger than presently, as rocks from this place have been used for other construction at later stages. It is considered that the name Vessagiriya has continued to originate from the Sanskrit word Vaishya and Sinhalese word Giri. Vaishya is one of the power castes in Indian culture which serves people in business and merchants. Giri is a Sinhalese word for hill. Hence, Vaishya Giri would mean the mountain of people in industry and traders. It also suggests that the modest monks residing here would have been merchants in their secular lives. The inscriptions carved on the stones by monks and enthusiasts reveal the story of Vessagiriya. According to the ancient records, Arahat Mahinda Thero, who founded Buddhism in Sri Lanka, ordained 500 Vaishyans in Vessagiriya. There are still flat granite surfaces where the ascetic monks have relaxed. Vessagiriya was considered to be known formerly as Issarasamanarama during the times of King Devanampiya Tissa. More Details

The Samadhi Buddha statue at Anuradhapura is among the best-preserved figures in the country. It is famous for setting the bar against which all other statues of its kind are found. In age, the Samadhi Buddha statue records back to either the 3rd or 4th Centuries AD, albeit its producer and advocate are unknown. The park of Mahamewna, though, escorted back to the 3rd Century BC and was amongst the most advanced generous gardens in the nation, sponsored by King Mutasiva. The present Samadhi Buddha statue reveals him in a state of thoughtful consideration, one hand on top of the other on his seat in a dhyana mudra, a gesture of peace. His feet are joined in the veerasana pose. In sum, this is a giant statue, seven feet three inches high. As it is heavily restored, it is thought by many to have slightly lost its initial value. Particularly in the nose, this had to be revised with cement after being destroyed during the 19th Century. More Details

Abhayagiri Stupa in Anuradhapura, the second most abundant of the stupas in Sri Lanka, was constructed by King Vattagamini Valagamba (89-77 BC). This continues up to the area of approximately 200 hectares. According to Bhikkhu Fa-Hsien, who toured Sri Lanka in the fifth century, there had been three thousand resident monks in the Mahavihara and five thousand monks in the Abhayagiri. The growth of Abhayagiri spread its peak in the reign of King Mahasen and was the core of Mahayana Buddhism. Buddhist structures found in the suburbs of Abhayagri show that this complex had been an essential educative institution both regionally and globally. More Details

Sandakada Pahana ( Moonstone) -Anuradhapura

Sandakada Pahana, also called Moonstone, is a semi-circular stone slab usually seen at the bottom of staircases of ancient religious places and any ancient royal palaces in Sri Lanka. It is a novel creation of ancient Sinhalese architecture. The Moonstone placed in the Mahasen’s Palace is the most elegant and best-preserved Moonstone found in Sri Lanka.

The symbols and their combination describes a tremendous religious meaning. Prof. Senarath Paranavithana introduced the widely trusted interpretation.

According to his statement, The Moonstone means the cycle of Sansara. The level symbolize worldly passions Thanha The lotus represents the final achievement of Nirvana. The elephant, bull, lion and horse represent birth, decay, disease and death. The swans signify the distinction between good and evil. More Details

Eth Pokuna, also called Elephant pond, is a massive artificial pond situated close to Lankaramaya Anuradhapura. This pond is 159 meters long, 52.7 meters crossed, and 9.5 meters in-depth, with 75,000 cubic meters of water holding volume. The water to this pond has been provided from the Periyamkulama Tank through a system of underground waterways, and you still can see part of the water lines built out of rock slabs. Those underground waterways still work after so many hundreds of years, and in 1982 after a hefty rainy season, you could see water pouring through these channels from the Periyamkulama tank. This tank has been utilised by the Abayagiri monastery monks, who amounted to over five thousand priests. More Details

The Abhayagiriya Museum was established within the ancient monastery complex of Abhayagiriya in Anuradhapura. It was opened for a public exhibition on 13th June 1992. The museum, designed in the old Panchavasa monastery plan, was developed by the Central Cultural Fund under economic aid from China. The Abhayagiriya Museum is classified as ‘Mahatissa-Faxian Cultural Complex’ to commemorate Ven. Kupikkala Mahatissa, the first chief administrator of the Abhayagiri Maha Vihara, and Ven. Fa-Xian, the Chinese Buddhist monk who studied Buddhism at the Abhayagiri Maha Vihara from 411 to 412 AD. It centres against the Abhayagiriya archaeological complex. The primary purpose of this museum is to manifest through artefacts recovered from Abhayagiriya that Sri Lanka was a prosperous country that flourished through international relations and a country where arts and technology harmonized remarkably. More Details

The pools The two pools are rectangular and built lower than the ground level. One of the pools is tinier than the other, and a narrow corridor separates both. Both pools have the same width but different lengths. The dimensions are making shorter towards the bottom of the collections. At the ground level, the size of the larger pool is 132 ft, while the smaller pool is 91 ft. The width of both reservoirs is 51 ft. More Details

Kalawewa National Park was declared a National Park in 2015; it includes the impressive Kalãwewa and Balaluwewa water tanks built by King Dhatusena in the 5th century. This Park of over 6000 hectares is home to elephants but with a critical feature - the herd has a great group of tuskers, male elephants with tusks (ivory). Only about seven per cent of the male elephant population have them, making tuskers a noble sight to see.

When the water levels drop from the tank beds in the dry zone, a lush grassland reveals itself – which is much interrogated after by the elephants. Resident herds and migratory herds from nearby forests all congregate to have the grass. As the Park is only open during the dry season, the chances of such sightings are very encouraging. And this is in addition to recognising large flocks of open-billed storks.

The monsoons arrive around October – November, and the grasslands disappear to give way to loaded up reservoirs. While the resident elephant herds remain, the migratory elephants return. The Park’s beautiful kumbuk trees and vegetation addition the reservoirs, birdlife and rustic surroundings. More Details

For birders like us, the scene is pleasant. Egrets, Grey Herons, Cormorants, Black-winged Stilts, Pelicans, Painted Stork and in season, migrants such as Kentish Plovers, Little-ringed Plovers, Barn Swallows, Sandpipers and others that frequent the lake are such a treat to observe. More Details

Ancient Stone Bridge ( Gal Palama) - Anuradhapura

Suggested Read: The Most Attractive Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

Ravindu Dilshan Illangakoon is a distinguished co-founder and Head of Content at Sri Lanka Travel Pages, specializing in web development and article writing.

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Reclining Buddha statue, Isurumuniya Vihara.

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Anuradhapura

The ruins of Anuradhapura are one of South Asia’s most evocative sights. The sprawling complex contains a rich collection of archaeological and architectural wonders: enormous dagobas (brick stupas), ancient pools and crumbling temples, built during Anuradhapura’s thousand years of rule over Sri Lanka. Today, several of the sites remain in use as holy places and temples; frequent ceremonies give Anuradhapura a vibrancy that’s a sharp contrast to the museum-like ambience at Polonnaruwa.

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Experience the real Anuradhapura. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Abhayagiri Dagoba

Dating back to the 1st century BC, this colossal dagoba was the ceremonial focus of the 5000-strong Abhayagiri Monastery. Originally over 100m high, it…

Ruvanvelisaya Dagoba

This magnificent white dagoba is guarded by a wall with a frieze of 344 elephants standing shoulder to shoulder. Apart from a few beside the western…

Sri Maha Bodhi

The sacred bodhi tree is central to Anuradhapura in both a spiritual and physical sense. It was grown from a cutting brought from Bodhgaya in India and is…

Jetavanarama Dagoba

The Jetavanarama Dagoba’s massive dome rises above the entire eastern part of Anuradhapura. Built in the 3rd century by King Mahasena, it may have…

Archaeological Museum

The old British colonial administration building has recently been renovated and has an interesting collection of artwork, carvings and everyday items…

Anuradhapura World Heritage Site

The ruins of Anuradhapura are one of South Asia’s most evocative sights. The sprawling complex contains a rich collection of archaeological and…

Isurumuniya Vihara

This charming rock temple, dating from the reign of Devanampiya Tissa (r 307–267 BC), is set around a lovely lotus pond, the corner of which is carved…

Ratnaprasada

Most of the 8th-century Ratnaprasada or 'Jewel Palace' lies in ruins today, though it was originally seven storeys high with a graceful, tiered roof. The…

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Exploring the Best Attractions and Hidden Gems in Anuradhapura: A Comprehensive Guide

Ever planned a trip and felt overwhelmed by the sheer number of sightseeing spots? I’ve been there too when planning my visit to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, filled with so many fascinating historical sites and hidden gems.

This comprehensive guide will simplify your exploration in this ancient city by highlighting top attractions, lesser-known treasures, and essential travel tips. Ready for an unforgettable adventure into history? Let’s set sail to Anuradhapura!

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

Anuradhapura is a historical city in Sri Lanka known for its cultural and historical significance.
The top attractions in Anuradhapura include the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, Jetavanaramaya Stupa, Abeyagiri Monastery, and Kuttam Pokuna.
Hidden gems in Anuradhapura include Mihintale, Ritigala Forest Monastery, Nuwara Wewa Reservoir Buddha Statue, and Lankarama Temple Ruins.
Visitors can also participate in traditional ceremonies, explore local markets, and venture off the beaten path to discover more hidden gems.

Anuradhapura: A Brief Overview

Anuradhapura, located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, is a city known for its historical and cultural significance.

Location and climate

Anuradhapura is in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. This ancient city has a tropical climate. It is hot and humid most days. The temperature stays around 80 degrees Fahrenheit all year round.

You might want to bring a hat or an umbrella for shade when you visit. The months from May to August have heavy rains due to the southwest monsoon. November and December are also rainy because of the northeast monsoon season.

Anuradhapura Ancient City

Anuradhapura Ancient City is a must-visit attraction in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds great cultural and historical significance. This ancient city was once the capital of Sri Lanka and dates back thousands of years.

You can explore the ruins of palaces, temples, and monasteries that showcase the rich history and architectural brilliance of Anuradhapura. Some notable landmarks include the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree , which is the oldest documented tree in the world; Ruwanwelisaya Stupa , one of the tallest stupas in Sri Lanka; and Jetavanaramaya Stupa , believed to be one of the largest brick structures in the ancient world.

The ancient city offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s past and is an incredible experience for adventure travelers seeking historical exploration.

Cultural significance

Anuradhapura holds immense cultural significance in Sri Lanka. As part of the country’s cultural triangle, this ancient city is renowned for its historical heritage and sacred sites.

It was once the capital of the Sinhalese kingdom and served as a prominent center for Buddhism. Today, visitors can explore the remarkable ruins of Anuradhapura Ancient City, which showcase impressive structures like stupas, monasteries, and palaces dating back centuries.

One of the most important cultural icons in Anuradhapura is the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, an ancient fig tree believed to be one of the oldest living trees planted by Emperor Ashoka’s daughter.

Its branches offer shade to countless devotees who come here to seek blessings and engage in religious rituals.

The city also houses other significant landmarks such as Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, Jetavanaramaya Stupa, Abeyagiri Monastery, and Kuttam Pokuna – twin ponds that were used by monks for bathing rituals.

These sites not only hold historical value but also exemplify Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage and architectural prowess.

Top Attractions in Anuradhapura

Some of the top attractions in Anuradhapura include the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, Jetavanaramaya Stupa, Abeyagiri Monastery, and Kuttam Pokuna.

Sri Maha Bodhi Tree

One of the top attractions in Anuradhapura is the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, which is considered to be one of the oldest trees in the world. This sacred tree is believed to have grown from a cutting of the original Bodhi tree in India under which Buddha attained enlightenment.

It holds immense religious significance for Buddhists and attracts pilgrims from all over the world. Located within Anuradhapura Ancient City, it is truly a must-visit site for those seeking spiritual experiences and cultural immersion.

Ruwanwelisaya Stupa

Ruwanwelisaya Stupa is one of the top attractions in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It is a giant white dome-shaped structure that holds religious significance for Buddhists. Adventure travelers will be amazed by its impressive size and peaceful atmosphere.

The stupa is said to enshrine relics of Lord Buddha, making it a sacred place for worship and reflection. Visitors can walk around the stupa and admire the intricate carvings and details on its outer walls.

Don’t forget to take off your shoes as a sign of respect when entering this spiritual site. Ruwanwelisaya Stupa is definitely worth a visit if you want to immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of Anuradhapura.

Jetavanaramaya Stupa

The Jetavanaramaya Stupa is one of the top attractions in Anuradhapura. It is a massive stupa that stands tall and proud, offering a glimpse into the ancient history of Sri Lanka. Adventure travelers will be amazed by its grandeur and significance.

Built during the 3rd century, it was once considered one of the tallest structures in the world! Exploring this magnificent stupa allows you to appreciate the architectural genius of ancient Sri Lankan builders.

As you stand at its base and gaze up at its towering structure, you can’t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder. The Jetavanaramaya Stupa is truly a sight to behold for anyone visiting Anuradhapura.

Abeyagiri Monastery

Another must-visit attraction in Anuradhapura is the Abeyagiri Monastery. This ancient monastery was once a flourishing center of Buddhist learning and meditation. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of this historical site and get a glimpse into the spiritual life of monks who lived here centuries ago.

The towering stupa, intricately carved stone pillars, and scattered remains of buildings make for a fascinating visit. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty and tranquility of Abeyagiri Monastery during your trip to Anuradhapura!

Kuttam Pokuna

Kuttam Pokuna, also known as the Twin Ponds, is a fascinating attraction in Anuradhapura. These twin pools were built during ancient times and served as bathing ponds for the monks.

The Kuttam Pokuna showcases incredible engineering skills of the past, with its intricate water supply system and beautiful stone carvings. As an adventure traveler, exploring Kuttam Pokuna will give you a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of Anuradhapura.

Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture this stunning site!

Hidden Gems in Anuradhapura

Discover the lesser-known treasures of Anuradhapura, including the mystical Mihintale, enchanting Ritigala Forest Monastery, captivating Nuwara Wewa Reservoir Buddha Statue, and ancient ruins of Lankarama Temple.

One of the hidden gems in Anuradhapura is Mihintale. It’s a place of historical significance and a popular day outing destination near Anuradhapura. It offers adventure travelers the opportunity to explore ancient ruins, climb up stone steps, and enjoy breathtaking views from the top.

Mihintale is known as the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, making it an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists. Here, you can visit various temples, shrines, and dagobas that hold religious importance.

Don’t forget to bring your camera along to capture the stunning scenery surrounding Mihintale.

Ritigala Forest Monastery

Next on our list of hidden gems in Anuradhapura is the Ritigala Forest Monastery. This secluded and mystical monastery is located amidst the lush greenery of Ritigala Mountain, offering a serene and peaceful atmosphere for visitors to explore.

With its ancient ruins and stone inscriptions dating back to the 1st century BC, Ritigala Forest Monastery holds great historical and archaeological significance. As you wander through the forest paths, you’ll be captivated by the tranquil beauty of nature while discovering remnants of an ancient Buddhist monastery.

The site also offers breathtaking views from its highest point, making it a must-visit for adventure travelers seeking both spiritual and natural experiences in Anuradhapura.

Nuwara Wewa Reservoir Buddha Statue

One of the hidden gems in Anuradhapura is the Nuwara Wewa Reservoir Buddha Statue. This impressive statue stands tall and serene, overlooking the reservoir. It is a symbol of peace and spirituality, attracting both locals and tourists alike.

The statue’s location near the water provides a tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for meditation or simply enjoying the surrounding natural beauty. Visiting this hidden gem is a great way to immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Anuradhapura while also experiencing its peaceful ambiance.

Lankarama Temple Ruins

Lankarama Temple Ruins is one of the must-visit hidden gems in Anuradhapura. These ancient ruins are situated near the main city and offer a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.

Adventure travelers will be amazed by the architectural beauty and serene surroundings of Lankarama Temple Ruins. The site was once home to a magnificent stupa, which has now been mostly destroyed, but you can still see its remnants scattered throughout the area.

Exploring these ruins is like stepping back in time, as you wander through the remains of what was once a grand temple complex. Don’t forget to bring your camera along, as there are plenty of photo-worthy spots amidst these ancient ruins.

Experiences and Activities in Anuradhapura

Immerse yourself in Anuradhapura’s rich culture and traditions by participating in traditional ceremonies, exploring local markets, and venturing off the beaten path to discover hidden gems.

Traditional ceremonies

One of the unique experiences you can have in Anuradhapura is attending traditional ceremonies. These ceremonies are an important part of the local culture and offer a glimpse into ancient traditions.

You can witness rituals, chantings, and offerings at temples like Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi or Abhayagiri Dagoba. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere and learn more about the customs and beliefs of the local people.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to participate in something truly special during your visit to Anuradhapura.

Local markets

When exploring Anuradhapura, don’t forget to check out the local markets. They offer a unique and vibrant experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the daily life of the locals.

You can find a variety of fresh produce, spices, handicrafts, and traditional Sri Lankan snacks . Take your time strolling through the bustling market stalls, interact with friendly vendors, and maybe even try bargaining for some souvenirs.

It’s a great way to get a taste of the local culture and bring home some authentic treasures from your trip to Anuradhapura.

Exploring off-the-beaten-path locations

If you’re an adventure traveler looking to explore off-the-beaten-path locations in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, you’re in for a treat! While the main attractions are definitely worth visiting, there are also hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

One such gem is Mihintale, located near Anuradhapura. It’s a hill with ancient ruins and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area. Another hidden gem is Ritigala Forest Monastery, where you can hike through lush forests and discover ancient Buddhist meditation caves.

If you’re interested in unique statues, don’t miss the Nuwara Wewa Reservoir Buddha Statue – it’s a giant statue surrounded by peaceful nature. Lastly, visit the Lankarama Temple Ruins for a serene and tranquil experience away from the crowds.

Practical Information for Visiting Anuradhapura

When to visit and how to get there, accommodations and transportation options, and tips for enjoying your visit.

When to visit and how to get there

Anuradhapura is best visited during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is warm and rainfall is minimal. To get to Anuradhapura, you can fly into Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo and then take a domestic flight or a bus to Anuradhapura. Another option is to take a train or hire a private car for a scenic drive. It’s important to plan your transportation in advance, as public transportation options can be limited.

Accommodations and transportation options

When planning your trip to Anuradhapura, it’s important to consider accommodations and transportation options. Here are some things to keep in mind:

There are a variety of accommodation options available in Anuradhapura, ranging from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. You can choose according to your preferences and budget.
Some popular hotels in Anuradhapura include the Ulagalla Resort, Grand Crown Hotel, and Rajarata Hotel. These hotels offer comfortable rooms and convenient amenities for your stay.
If you prefer a more authentic experience, you can also opt for homestays or guesthouses run by locals. This allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and interact with the residents.
When it comes to transportation, there are several ways to get around Anuradhapura. You can rent a car or hire a driver if you prefer a more convenient and flexible option.
Another popular mode of transportation is hiring a bicycle or tuk – tuk. This allows you to explore the attractions at your own pace and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Public buses are also available for getting around the city and visiting nearby attractions. They are an affordable option but may be crowded at times.
It’s advisable to plan your transportation ahead of time and consider the distance between attractions when creating your itinerary.

Tips for enjoying your visit

Here are some tips to help you enjoy your visit to Anuradhapura:

Plan your visit during the cooler months, as Anuradhapura can get quite hot and humid.
Wear comfortable clothing and footwear, as you will be walking a lot.
Start your day early to avoid crowds and make the most of your time exploring the attractions.
Stay hydrated by carrying a water bottle with you.
Respect the cultural and religious significance of the sites by dressing modestly and removing your shoes when required.
Engage with local guides or hire a knowledgeable guide who can provide insights into the history and significance of each attraction.
Try local cuisine at the nearby food stalls or restaurants for an authentic experience.
Carry a camera to capture beautiful moments and memories during your visit.
Take breaks and rest in shaded areas when needed to prevent fatigue.
Finally, immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Anuradhapura by embracing the peaceful surroundings and taking time to appreciate the historical sites.

Anuradhapura offers an incredible array of attractions and hidden gems for adventurous travelers to explore. From ancient ruins and temples to beautiful natural landscapes, there is something for everyone in this historic city.

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, Anuradhapura has it all. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the best that Anuradhapura has to offer!

1. What are some of the best attractions in Anuradhapura?

Some of the best attractions in Anuradhapura include the Sri Maha Bodhi, Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, and Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya.

2. Are there any hidden gems worth exploring in Anuradhapura?

Yes, there are hidden gems in Anuradhapura such as the Isurumuniya Temple, Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds), and Ratnaprasada.

3. How can I get around to explore these attractions in Anuradhapura?

You can explore these attractions by hiring a tuk-tuk or bicycle, taking a guided tour, or walking if they are within close proximity.

4. When is the best time to visit Anuradhapura for sightseeing?

The best time to visit Anuradhapura for sightseeing is during the dry season from May to September when rainfall is minimal and weather conditions are more pleasant.

Melanie Cho is a passionate traveler, storyteller, and cultural enthusiast with a heart that bridges the landscapes of Korea and Sri Lanka. As a 28-year-old Korean woman who spent her formative years splitting time between these two captivating worlds, Melanie’s unique upbringing ignited her love for exploration and connection. Her intimate knowledge of both cultures enables her to share authentic insights, captivating stories, and practical tips that inspire fellow adventurers to embark on unforgettable journeys.

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13 amazing places to visit in anuradhapura (sri lanka).

Anuradhapura is a cultural and historical delight.

And it was a must-have stop on our chosen 3 week Sri Lanka backpacking route.

It’s one of the most ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, which makes it no surprise that it’s gained a UNESCO world heritage site title.

The area is bursting with things to see and do, and below we take you through the 13 best places to visit in Anuradhapura.

But first, here are some answers to the most common questions you might have when planning your trip.

Travellerspoint

How to get to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

If you've just flown into Sri Lanka, then the best ways to reach Anuradhapura from Colombo include:

‍ Bus: The bus from Colombo to Anuradhapura stops at Putlam and you’ll need to transfer onto another bus. Buses are very cheap in Sri Lanka and it shouldn’t cost more than 200 LKR. ‍
Train: The train from Colombo to Anuradhapura is the most budget-friendly and quickest way to get to Anuradhapura. It costs roughly 80 to 270 LKR and takes around 3 and a half hours. For all your train travel in Sri Lanka, I would recommend you use 12Go Asia to search and book online. It’s the easiest way to book your trains in Sri Lanka and will help you navigate all the beautiful things to see in Anuradhapura. Check cheapest prices and availability here . ‍
Taxi: You can get an Uber to Anuradhapura if you’re leaving from Colombo where the Uber hub is. It takes around 4 hours and it costs around 7,000-9,000 LKR, which between 4 people isn’t a bad price for aircon and convenience.
‍ Tuk-tuk: This is the option Bradley and I chose. We rented our own tuk-tuk from Colombo for 4 weeks and used it to drive all across the island. The drive from Colombo to Anuradhapura is around 5 hours. The flexibility that a tuk-tuk brings to your travels is amazing. It cost us $18 a day and we could go “off the beaten track” whenever we pleased.

How long should you spend in Anuradhapura?

I think 2 to 3 nights is the right amount, definitely 3 if you are planning a day trip to Lion Rock or Dambulla .

Where to stay in Anuradhapura

If you're planning a trip to Anuradhapura, then there are tones of great accommodation choices; personally, we stayed in a wonderful guest house.

‍ It cost 2300 LKR for a double room and I would 100% recommend it.

The hosts were generous and lovely, the rooms clean and comfortable and the WiFi was good.

Every evening she made us a pot of tea with cream, and to this day, it was the best tea I’ve ever had.

She also did washing for us for 300 LKR, which is stupidly cheap.

We never found it cheaper elsewhere in Sri Lanka.

Check it out here on Booking.com .

If this isn't for you then, check out this epic post I put together on the best places to stay in Anuradhapura .

13 Amazing Places To Visit In Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is bursting with great things to do and see.

A lot of the sights (the majority in fact) require a UNESCO cultural heritage pass.

This costs roughly $25 USD and can be purchased at the Archaeology Museum (open daily 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., closed Tuesdays).

However, I will start with the sites that are not included in this ticket and work my way through.

Basically, if there is no price, then it's included in the cultural heritage pass.

1. Check out the awesome Mihintale

I thought I’d start with one of my favourite places to visit in Anuradhapura.

Mihintale is a sacred area that is accessed via steps.

It’s a mountain or (hill) and the climb up is via a dodgy railing so be careful with your footing.

What makes this place sacred is that it is believed that this area is the specific birth of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

It is thought that the Buddhist monk Mahinda flew from India and landed on top of this rock, where he then preached and brought the Buddhist religion to Anuradhapura.

It’s located around 13 km from the centre of Anuradhapura (which takes around half an hour by tuk-tuk).

If you don’t have your own, then hire one to take you there as it will be the cheapest way.

Views from the top are beautiful, but it is WINDY, like crazy windy, and the little top viewing point can only fit 4 or 5 people max at a time; so it’s important to get there when it's not too busy.

Oh yeah, and be aware of the monkeys everywhere.

It’s 500 LKR entrance , but that includes entrance to the other religious sites within the area, including a beautiful big white Buddha on a hilltop.

You will also need to cover your shoulders and knees and remove your shoes to enter the full area.

I recommend socks (especially if you are type 1 diabetic like me), and if you forget a wrap, you can get one for free at the bottom.

Price: 500 LKR pp

Book: Check Klook

Opening Times: 9 am to 5 pm

2. Visit Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi

This is a famous place in Anuradhapura, due to the sacred tree growing out of the middle temple.

It’s a very serene place and it’s free to enter which makes it one of the best places to visit in Anuradhapura if you're sticking to a budget.

If you’re interested in seeing how locals pray and generally experience a simple temple, then this is the place for you.

Read Also: Bradley's guide on the best surf spots in Sri Lanka .

3. Admire Isurumuniya

This is described as a charming rock temple and I would have to agree.

It dates back to 307–267 BC and its surrounded by a beautiful pond (perfect for taking pictures by-as featured in the cover photo)

Part of the temple holds a room that has beautiful stone carvings, and one of the most famous is the “lovers” carving, which I got a picture of.

These carvings in stone are truly fascinating because they are so old.

You can also climb around the back of the rock to the summit and to see a bell-shaped stupa.

It offers nice views, and you will see lots of locals praying.

As you enter, it suggests you should only wear white in the area out of respect.

However, this applies to those who are praying and there for religious reasons.

You could spot the foreigners, as they weren’t wearing white, and I couldn’t have possibly worn brighter colours if I tried!

Price: 200 LKR Per Person

Book: You can only book tickets in person.

Opening Times: 7.30 am to 6.30 pm

4. Wander Around The Royal Botanical Gardens

These are situated literally a 2-minute walk from the above site and it's free to enter.

As you walk through these gardens, it's surrounded by historical ruins which makes it fascinating.

Unfortunately however, there is limited information on what they are, or what they could have been, so I felt like I missed out.

Another reason a guide might be useful.

If you do want to hire a guide for the day, it should be somewhere around 1000-2000 LKR depending on where you want to go, so it can be useful.

5. Visit The Ratna Prasada Guard Stone

This was once a “jewel palace” that now mostly lies in ruins.

It was originally 7 stories high.

The entrance is the most impressive feature with a beautifully carved Muragala (guardstone), which showcases the Cobra King holding a vase of abundance and a flowering branch.

6. Check out the Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)

Kuttam Pokuna, known as the twin ponds are an engineering marvel of the ancient Sri Lankan era.

They belong to the Abayagiri aramic complex and probably been used by the monks for bathing.

We don't know the origins of these ponds, however, it's thought to have been built during the reign of King Aggabodhi I (575-608).

7. Moonstone of Abhayagiri Vihara

This dagoba dates back to 1st-century bc.

It was originally over 100m high and was once regarded as one of the greatest structures in the ancient world.

The only thing that could match it at the time was the pyramids of Giza.

After various reconstructions, it now soars 75m above the forest floor.

It's one of the best places to see in Anuradhapura for its visually stunning beauty and you can find your first glance of this via a gap in the forest that surrounds it.

Also, did you know the name means ‘Fearless Hill’?

8. Visit Ruwanwelisaya Stupa

An absolute wonderous stupa built by King Dutugemunu c. 140 B.C.

It’s considered one of the most sacred areas for Buddhists all over the world .

It’s the oldest stupa in Sri Lanka, and was restored in the 20th century and repainted a glorious white.

It truly is regarded as a marvel for its architectural qualities.

As with a lot of ancient sights in Anuradhapura, you have to be able to appreciate the context in when and what they were built to really appreciate the greatness.

If you are unable to do this, then you’ll struggle to find the beauty.

This is why getting a guide can sometimes be useful, or using a lonely planet guidebook as you walk around!

9. Visit the “lake” for sunset

I say lake, but it’s actually an artificial reservoir.

It’s called Tissa Wewa and it’s a nice place to catch sunset because you can see the two glorious white stupas in the distance.

Also, if you want to experience something different, it’s also bath time for locals and over 100 people come here to get washed!

P.S. all over Sri Lanka there are stray dogs, with estimates ranging from 1 million up to 3 million.

This means lots of them to die of ill health and there are very little facilities to help them.

We found a dog on the beach next to this lake, and she looks like this.

It broke my heart having to leave her :(

We had lots of cases like this over Sri Lanka, but this is the first dog Bradley and I connected with, and we fell in love with her.

Read Also: Visiting The Dog Care Clinic In Unawatuna: Our Experience

10. Go for dinner at Mango Mango

Anuradhapura isn’t exactly bursting with amazing places to eat, but Tripadvisor will recommend Mango Mango and you should go.

Not only is it stupidly cheap, but it’s a nice air conditioned restaurant, modern design and it’s a chain of 4.

Most importantly, the food is AMAZING , big portions and just fantastic value.

I can’t handle spice, so I recommend the butter chicken and chicken korma alongside a portion of cheese dosa (amazing).

If you are looking for snack food there is a modern looking shopping centre in the main area of town.

It has an “in-house” restaurant that serves cheap food including sandwiches, subs and local rice and curry dishes.

It’s super cheap too.

11. Gal Palama (Stone Bridge)

If you can appreciate work completed in the past which would have been challenging, then you’ll appreciate this.

If you travel 3,4 km from Sangamitta Mawatha, you’ll pass by some picturesque paddy fields, you can reach the point where this ancient stone bridge crosses the Mawathu Oya.

Only part of this stone bridge can be seen today, and stone slabs are laid across rows of 3 stone pillars.

Attempts have been made to restore this bridge in the recent past but work has been abruptly stopped in 2001. The stone bridge dates back to 5-9th centuries.

There are other stone bridges to discover in Anuradhapura too, these include:

Bridge over Malwathu Oya (Anuradhapura)
Bridge over Halpan Ela (Anuradhapura)
Bridge close to Mahakanadarawa Reservoir (Mihintale)

12. Visit the Samadhi Buddha

This is a Buddha which is situated in meditation pose and it’s super old...I am talking the 4th century.

So, if you like history, then this is one of the best places to visit in Anuradhapura.

Due to its significant age, it’s regarded as one of the best Buddha statues in all of Sri Lanka and it’s thought to have been constructed at the cardinals directions.

It’s carved from granite and is 8ft in height.

It’s located in Mahamevnāwa Park which is also worth a wander too.

Read Also: The 50 best places to visit in Sri Lanka

13. Take a day trip to Sigiriya

We have a whole post dedicated to what to do in Sigiriya , and people do visit the famous Lion's Rock from Anuradhapura, but it will be a full day trip, and we recommend leaving super early.

This is due to the fact it’s always nicer to climb Lion Rock when the crowds are lower and the weather isn’t scoring hot.

This is because most of the climb isn’t protected from the shade, and the more people, the longer you will have to wait to use the narrow stairs that lead up to it.

It’s about a 1 and half hour journey to Sigiriya from Anuradhapura, but if you’re only in Sri Lanka for a short time, then taking the trip from Anuradhapura is the best way to do it.

On your way back you could also stop at Dambulla and visit the cave rock temple.

Read Also: Ultimate Guide To Visiting Sigiriya Rock

Final thoughts on visiting Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka

If you want to get yourself an Anuradhapura tourist map to help navigate your way around the city then you can get one at the ticket counter from where you buy your heritage pass.

If you aren’t buying a pass, then you can ask your accommodation if they have one.

The distance between the different heritage sites in the old city are quite far and you may find it tiring to walk.

This is why it’s recommend to rent a tuk tuk for the day to take you around.

You won’t get ripped off, so just go for a decent price and you’ll be sorted.

There isn’t also someone at the entrance of the sites, so you can kind of just wander in, BUT, there are random guards hanging around who will ask you for proof of your purchase and you’ll need to be able to show it or else a penalty occurs.

Some people get away with visiting some of the sites without paying, but it’s up to you and your moral judgement.

When is the best time to visit Anuradhapura?

The weather in Anuradhapura is mild and warm.

This is especially so in the month of May when the normal temperature is 29.0°C.

The warmest month is March when the temperature rises to 33 C.

Bradley and I visited in September and the weather was warm, but there was no rain or cloud which was nice.

I think it's possible to visit all year round with ease.

It depends on how much heat you can handle!

I hope you’ve enjoyed this guide on the best places to visit in Anuradhapura.

I had a wonderful time in this ancient city and I know you will too.

Comment below if you’ve been or you have other recommendations to add to the list.

For more help planning your trip, check out our other guides on Sri Lanka:

Backpacking Sri Lanka
Packing For Sri Lanka
Our Wilpattu National Park Safari (Less Than $100!)
Best Accommodation In Anuradhapura

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Top 18 Places to Visit in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Anuradhapura is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, distinguished for its well-preserved ruins of an ancient civilization. According to Mahawamsa, the great chronicle of the Sinhalese, the city of Anuradhapura was named after a minister called Anuradha who found this area as a village settlement by the Malwatu Oya in the second half of the 6th century BC. In the 4th century BC, King Pandukabhaya made Anuradhapura the capital of his kingdom. It remained as the capital city for 15 centuries and was a prominent political and trade center in South Asia during this period.

Around 250 BC, King Asoka became the Emperor of India and became a Buddhist. His son and the daughter were ordained as a Bhikku and a Bhikkuni (Buddhist priest and a nun named Mahinda and Sangamitta) and became Arhat.[Mahinda is called Mihindu in Sinhalese]

Emperor Asoka sent nine Buddhist delegations to nine countries and due to the close links with the King of Anuradhapura, Devanampiya Tissa, Emperor Asoka sent one of the delegations comprising Arhat Mahinda to Sri Lanka. Arahath Mihidu met the King Devanampiyatissa at a place called Mihintale Rock about 12 Km from Anuradhapura on a Poson (June) Full Moon day and embraced Buddhism after a dialogue among the two.

Arahath Mahinda spent the rest of his life in Sri Lanka and with the patronage of the King, started the Gauthama Buddha Sasanaya ( Buddhist order of the Lord Gauthama Buddha ) in Sri Lanka. Then started an era of culture interwoven with Buddhist philosophy that created an agricultural-based society. The architectural remains can still be seen and give a glimpse of what had been the country at that time.

Timeless ruins of Anuradhapura sacred city reflect Sri Lanka’s historical heritage, ancient civilization and the dawn of Buddhism. In this sacred city, there are eight main places of worship known as Athamasthana. They are Sri Maha Bodhiya, Ruwanwelisaya, Thuparamaya, Lovamahapaya, Abhayagiriya, Jetavanaramaya, Mirisawatiya, and Lankaramaya. In the vicinity of Anuradhapura, there are a large number of ruins consisting of three classes of buildings, dagobas, basic buildings, and pokunas (bathing-tanks). The dagobas are bell-shaped masses of stonework, altering from a few feet to over 1100 ft in circumference. The most famous is the Brazen Palace (Lovamahapaya) erected by King Dutugamunu about 164 BC. One of the best specimens of bathing tanks or pools in ancient Sri Lanka is the pair of pools known as “Kuttam pokuna” (Twin ponds). The city also contains a sacred Bo-Tree, Sri Mahabodhiya, it is said that arahath Sanghamitta Thero brought with her a branch of the Bodhi tree under which prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment. This is the oldest living tree in the world with a documented history.

Other main sights of Anuradhapura are Samadhi Statue, Ratna Prasada Guard stone, Moonstone, & Folk Museum. This complex requires a bit of walking from one site to another, therefore, travelers need to go prepared with comfortable clothing, sunscreen if sensitive to the sun and with socks at hand since you will have to remove your footwear in certain areas.

01. Abhayagiri Monastery Complex

Abhayagiri is the largest monastery complex in the Anuradhapura kingdom for it covers an area of 200 hectares. In the 1st century BC, a Sinhalese King by the name of Vattagamini Abhaya had been forced to flee and abandon his capital during a Tamil Chola invasion. While he was hiding, he heard the sarcastic ramble of a Hindu priest named Giri.

“The great black lion is fleeing!” 14 years later, the king came back with a robust army and trampled the occupation. In celebration, he built a monastery and named it after himself (Abhaya) and the priest who had aroused his rage (Giri).

This monastery was given to a Buddhist monk Thera Mahatissa as a gesture of appreciation for all the support he had lent to the king during his time of adversity and who had assisted him in the rebuilding of his army.

This Moonstone within the Abayagiri Monastery is found in the main flight of stairs in the center building. This moonstone is considered one of the best and most preserved of an era dating back to the 7th-8th centuries. Its design is a ring of flames on the outer edge and below that is a ring of 4 different animals which are elephants, horses, lions and bulls.

The next line incorporates a floral design and then a line of swans with a twig of flower and leaf in the mouth which is then followed by a line of floral patterns and the centre is a lotus with petals around the semi-circle on the moonstone.

The next line incorporates a floral design and then a line of swans with a twig of flower and leaf in the mouth which is then followed by a line of floral patterns and the center is a lotus with petals around the semi-circle on the moonstone.

Rathna Prasada (Guardstone)

The Rathnaprasada was the largest building in the monastery. It was first built by king Kanittatissa in the 2nd century and was rebuilt in the 8th century by King Mahinda II on a grand scale with many stories and had put up a golden statue of Buddha. Unfortunately, it was all destroyed during the South Indian invasions.

Over the years, the successive kings were able to protect and preserve some ruins. Among the ruins, there is an exquisitely carved guard stone which portrays a god-king protected by a five-headed cobra (Naga Gala) holding a vase with flowers reflecting prosperity. This was installed to secure the Prasada and gemstones in the vicinity. The massive pillars, a ruined building nearby and this guard stone are great examples of stone carving reflecting the architecture at that time which give glimpses of Sinhalese architectural styles. Other guard stones (Mura Gal) can also be found on this site.

Abhayagiri Stupa

The main stupa, Abhayagiri Stupa was constructed over a footprint of Lord Buddha. A part of the Sri Maha Bodhi tree is there. The stupa is 370 feet tall when originally built and it was the second tallest stupa on the island. During its zenith, the monastery was home to one of the greatest libraries in the world.

A museum was inaugurated by the government of China to commemorate the efforts of Fa-Hsien, a Chinese monk who had devoted his time studying the Buddhist manuscripts. This museum was also initiated to keep all archaeological treasures and artifacts that have been excavated through archaeological explorations.

The new museum at Abhayagiri Monastery was established in memory of Fa-hsien to preserve and exhibit the treasures discovered during the excavations which were ornaments and jewelry made of gold and with gems and crystals; coins belonging to ancient era; metal objects; moulds and crucibles used in their manufacture; ceramics; pottery; glass; tiles; sculptures etc.

Kuttam Pokuna

Kuttam Pokuna, known as the ‘Twin Ponds’ is an architectural landscape to be explored in Anuradhapura. It was built to be a bathing pool with terraces for the monks and it dates back to the 8th century. At that time, there was no modern technology to construct the place to its full effect yet it is an example of noteworthy achievements in engineering and architecture. The pond at the northern end measures 91 feet long whereas the other pond is 132 feet long. Both ponds have steps right to the bottom of the pool. This gives evidence that there was an improvisation in Sri Lanka’s Irrigation system. Water from the man-made reservoir, Basawakkulama which comes through stone conduits underground fill up the pools.

Eth Pokuna or Elephant Pond is the largest man-made pond in the whole of Anuradhapura. Sitting among the forest at 159 meters in length and 152 meters wide, it is a great marvel that speaks of the ancient irrigation wonders of Sri Lanka. It was used by monks who lived in the nearby buildings for their daily cleansing and other water-related necessities. The water fills up from the Periyamkulama Tank through underwater channels and heavy rains cause water to flow from the inlets.

02. Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi

Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi which is the Sacred Bo Tree – this is the tree of the sapling of the Sacred Bodhi brought by Sanghamitta, daughter of Emperor Ashoka from the main stem of the Bodhi Tree in India under which Lord Buddha obtained enlightenment. This sapling was received by King Devanampiya Tissa who had then planted it ceremoniously at this present site.

03. Lovamahapaya or Brazen Palace

Lovamahapaya or Brazen Palace which is a building of nine stories framed with stone pillars that were built by King Devanam Piyatissa in the 3rd century BCE & later redesigned by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BCE. This structure was named ‘Brazen Palace’ because it had a copper or bronze tiled roof.

The purpose of this palace was to house 9000 monks and attendants by providing shelter, nursing care and facilities for the injured. According to early historical sources, Lovamahapaya was a massive nine storied building with each side 400 feet long. The building was supported by 40 rows of stone pillars each containing 40 pillars, totaling 1600 pillars in all. Its walls were decorated with corals and precious stones and its roof was covered with copper-bronze plates, because of which it’s also known as the Brazen Palace or Lohaprasadaya. Each level of the building was rumored to have 1,000 rooms. These early descriptions may be exaggerated, but Lovamahapaya would have been one of the most prominent buildings at the time it was constructed.

Unfortunately, aside from the hundreds of supporting stone pillars nothing remains of this once supposedly majestic building. The building was completely destroyed in a fire, the upper structures being made of wood, during the reign of King Saddhatissa, less than 30 years later. Over the next several centuries until the fall of the Anuradhapura Kingdom in the 10th century, Lovamahapaya was rebuilt and then destroyed numerous times by invading armies. King Parakramabahu who reigned from 1153 to 1186 AD raised and restored the stone pillars. The small building in the center of the stone pillars that is visible today, is of late construction and is the Venue of Uposatha (chapter house) of the Maha Vihara even now.

04. Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba

Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba is one of the oldest stupas in Sri Lanka. Ruwanwelisaya is considered an icon of architectural glory in ancient Sri Lanka. Also known as the Great Stupa, Ruwanwelisaya was built by the victorious King Dutugemunu in 140 BC. It was his ambitious project and this stupa bears witness for its unparalleled service to revive Buddhism in the country.

05. Tissa Wewa

Tissa Wewa is an artificial reservoir built by King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd century BC in order to provide and increase water supply to the city of Anuradhapura and to supply water to the king’s royal gardens. This reservoir was then expanded and integrated into a network of canals for irrigation.

Tissa Wapi or Tissa wewa is yet another destination for tourists to gain relaxation and knowledge for both physical and mental. It is a symbol of the ancient Irrigation systems of Sri Lanka. And also it is one of the men made reservoirs in Anuradhapura other than Basawakkulama (Abhayagiri wewa) and Nuwara wewa. It is built by King Devanam Piyathissa (250-210 B.C), the predecessor of establishing Buddhism in Sri Lankan Civilization in the 3rd century. The bunt is about 11000 feet in distance and 25 feet in depth. Tisa wewa covers an area about 550 acres. Mahawansa reveals that the great King Dutugemunu went to Tissa wewa to make the rituals and observed traditions bounded with water before getting accession to the throne after defeating brutal Dravidian King Elara. The lake is located in the southwest of the Anuradhapura city.

This Large irrigation system was fallen into obsolescence. But it was repaired several times even by the British government. As prescribed in H.Parker’s reports, he says that the bunt has been built thickly in its original state and It may not need a maintaining. As a matter of fact, Tissa Wewa still serves the Anuradhapura area. By the way, the Ancient Bisokotuwa made of stones was embedded with concrete. Tissa wewa was nourished with the water gained from ‘Kala wewa’. The water was supplied through the Canal, ‘Yodha Ela’. Yodha Ela is also a great creation of our ancient architecture. The architects knew that the speed of water in canals may decrease if it is moved into a zigzag-shaped canal.

Thereby they used this theory to supply water for low land areas. The canals were capable of covering whole the Dry zone areas in Anuradhapura. They considered research to elect a suitable place to build Tissa wewa by King Devanam Piyatissa. It was done under several objectives. Congruent Geographical features to imbibe water from the earth, collect and secure water from natural water resources, easier to build the dam of the tank and adjustability to face earthquakes or inundation were thoroughly considered. Thus ancient rural lifestyle of Sri Lankans was deeply attached with watery civilization. Kings paid their utmost attention to maintain and develop the tanks, lakes and water reservoirs. They never let people waste a single drop of water.

06. Miriswatiya Dagoba

Miriswatiya Dagoba was the first monument built by King Dutugemunu. After his consecration, an ornate sword which contained a sacred relic of Buddha was left implanted on the bank on the seventh day of the water festival at the Tissa Wewa. Upon returning after his bath at the reservoir, the king couldn’t take out his sword after several attempts which led them to believe that it was a miracle, hence the building of this dagoba on this location around the sword.

07. Thuparama Temple

Thuparama Temple is the oldest stupa in Sri Lanka and the first to be built in the country after the introduction of Buddhism. It was built by King Devanampiya Tissa. It is sacred to the Buddhists for it is known to house the right collarbone relic of Lord Buddha which was brought to Sri Lanka by Mahinda, son of King Ashoka of India.

08. Samadhi Buddha Statue

Samadhi Buddha Statue is a classic monument of Sinhalese art and sculpture. It stands tall at 2 meters and is a granite stone carving erected in a position of meditation (Samadhi) which was associated with Buddha’s first enlightenment and is one of the four Buddha statues that was placed around the Bodhi tree facing fundamental directions.

09. Jetavaranama Stupa and monastery

Jetavaranama Stupa and monastery was built in the 3rd century BCE. The magnificent Jetavaranama stupa was the largest brick structure in the world and the third-largest brick structure of any type.

Consisting of over 90 million bricks, this enormous bulbous stupa can get one be reflective and connect to its past with emotions of calm and serenity. Therefore it is well worth the visit for the scale of its structure shows the feat and determination at the time. Around it stand the ruins of a monastery that had housed 3000 monks.

10. Kuttam Pokuna

Kuttam Pokuna, known as the ‘Twin Ponds, is an architectural landscape built to be a bathing pool with terraces for the monks and it dates back to the 8th century.

11. Isurumuniya Viharaya

Isurumuniya Viharaya is a temple slightly built into a cave with a cliff. The rock that looks like it is rising out of a beautiful pond at the front of the cliff has intricate carvings of elephants. The Isurumuniya Viharaya is situated close to Tisa Wewa in Anuradhapura. There is a Viharaya connected to a cave and above is a cliff. A small stupa is built on it. Isurumuniya is famous for its stone carvings, and the one known as “Isurumuniya Lovers” is the most-admired and world-famous. The other carvings are of the Horseman, Elephant Pond and the Royal Family.

The Isurumuniya Viharaya was constructed during the regime of Devanampiya Tissa who governed the ancient capital Anuradhapura. The temple was built as a monastic complex to house newly orientated monks. Some believe Isurumuni lovers are a symbol of Hindu god Shiva and Parvati. But according to Dr. Paranawithana it is believed that it’s a depiction of Prince Saliya, son of King Dutugemunu and Asokamala, a poor lass whom the prince favored over the throne.

The Bathing Elephants are another stone carving admired by many. They make a remarkable impact as you enter the temple premises. The carvings differ in its representation. Therefore it is believed that the work was done by two sculptors with varied techniques, at different times.

The Man and the Horse is somewhat more enigmatic. Engraved into the rock face above the pond is a man seated next to a horse. The man sits in a “King posture”. His left arm stretches vertically down where the hand is placed palm downwards. His right arm is resting on his right leg bent at the knee.

The Royal Family carving is carved on a Granite plate. There are five human figures. The human figure in the center is King Dutugemunu, who has a crown on his head and a “Puna Noola” around his chest. At his left are another two figures that are fanning him and the rest are believed to be his family.

Just beyond the temple, is the Tissawewa. It is said that the Isurumuniya Temple and the massive tank were built at the same time.

12. Mihintale

Mihintale is the cradle of Buddhism and has been cited a key pilgrimage site for Buddhists in Sri Lanka and the world. Aside from pilgrims, tourists visit this site and climb its hill to witness the several monastic religious shrines including a grandiose 40 feet stupa which was built in the 1st century BC, paying homage to its significance.

13. Aukana Buddha Statue

Aukana Buddha Statue holds prestige in the historical chronicles as being one of the tallest standing statues of Buddha in Sri Lanka. It is situated in the district of Anuradhapura and is steeped in rich history. It was formerly known as Kalagal Viharaya in the 18th century probably due to the reason it is few kilometers away from the Kala Wewa (reservoir) which was created by King Dathusena in the 4th century. It was given the name, Aukana in recent years.

The fine sculpture of the Buddha statue gives credit to the artistry and skill of the craftsmen since this colossal statue stands at a mighty height of 42 feet. The skills were evident in this creation where a drop of rain would eventually flow along a path over the statue and falls below to a point at the feet that protects the entire statue.

The sacred bare feet, the folds and creases in the robes, the posture of the arms and the looks of serenity and calm of the face give evidence of love and dedication that was incorporated into creating this masterpiece.

This statue is one of which was molded with each body part being in proportion and it was also believed that it follows the Maha Vihara tradition which means the fearless form is shown.

It was believed that Lord Buddha had 32 features that reflected his enlightenment and importance; some of which are internal and others are external. However, it is the skills of the craftsmen to be precise in showing these features correctly and visible. Therefore, the Aukana Buddha statue shows approximately 16 features that can be clearly seen.

14. Isinbassagala Ruwangiri Rajamaha Viharaya

Isinbassagala Ruwangiri Rajamaha Viharaya is located along the A9 road (Kandy-Jaffna highway.), This little stupa is part of a complex that was built by King Devanampiyatissa during his reign in 250-210 BC. It was built after Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka and although it is not the original structure, it was re-created in the early 20th century after excavations had unearthed an ancient Naga Gala (Snake Stone) and a footprint of Lord Buddha known as Sri Pathul Gala. The discovered Naga stone gives evidence of a Naga tribal community/identity that had existed during the pre-Buddhist period of ancient Lanka. The Sri Pathul Gala is a relic of the past giving a clue that Lord Buddha did descend upon Lanka.

A carving of a white dragon sits at the entrance of the rock and a short ascend up the steps reveal a golden Buddha statue and of King Devanampiyatissa which stands near the balustrades. As you reach the top of the plateau, you would see the main temple as of Ruwangiri Rajamaha Viharaya, where devotees or pilgrims visit to seek blessings or give offerings. This complex holds a cave room on the side and gives gorgeous panoramic views of the beautiful surroundings.

This cave room has an ancient statue referred to as Arahath Guhawa, this reflects the legendary belief that Arahath along with several other Buddhist monks had arrived first to this historical region before reaching Mihintale; hence the translation of Isinbassagala as ‘the rock that the sage came from.’ The word “Isi” is derived from the Sanskrit word “Rishi” (The Sage).

15. Folk Museum

For travelers interested in the rural life of Sri Lanka, the folk museum is the best place to be visited. It is a must to see the folk museum of Anuradhapura aimed to collect, conserve and exhibit religious sculptures, statues, ornaments, handicrafts, antiques, and explanatory displays while providing information used by the rural community around Nuwara Kalaviya area. Apart from traveling whole over the sites, it is a great opportunity to gain information and knowledge from this showcase of archeology, the folk museum in Anuradhapura. The museum simply exhibits the life patterns and styles of Sinhala peasantry in Anuradhapura. In the case of modern technology and machines, gradually they had been transferred into a new way of living while saying goodbye to their customs and old habits. During the 12 – 15 A.D, the kingdom was commuted to coastal and up countries due to the foreign invasions.

Therefore most of the community had to change their native places. The rest had to survive their lives in their own. Living models of the objects and tools which were used in their day to day lives can be seen at the museum. Therefore the museum is a commendation to the peasant of that era. Regarding the peasant kitchen, all the fascinating objects can be seen like molds which were used to make milk rice and kokis, mats which were used to steam string hoppers, sticks which were used to form talapa etc. Even the traditional dresses like sarees, cheeththa, blouses and sarongs are exhibited in the museum. Necklaces like Kara mala, Gedi mala on the other hand waist chains and bangles were shown in the showcases.

In combination with the simple lifestyle Folk games like Olinda keliya, chak gudu, kubuttan pila were symbolized in the museum. It is highlighted that the ancient Sinhala medical practices were quite reasonable. Even today Local Sinhala medicine practices are capable of treating, curing listed dangerous diseases.

Udella (mamotee), Ketta, Pihiya (knife), porawa (axe) and so many tools were shown at the same place which was used at the Chena cultivations. Labu gediya, accessed as the water bottle while the bath malu or food basket was used to carry the meals of the farmers. Various kinds of Ploughs and clappers were also included in the museum. Thus the folk museum is a showcase of archeology in Anuradhapura.

16. Basawakkulama Wewa

Basawakkulama reservoir, in other words, the Abhayawapiya wewa is one of the three men made reservoirs in Anuradhapura. Local and foreign travelers to Anuradhapura never miss the tank, Abhayawapiya as they are waiting to see the panoramic sunset over the Wewa . It is a better opportunity for tourists who are waiting to enjoy the tour. Swarnamali maha Dagoba besides the Abhayagiri wewa has added some colors to the scenery. Consequently, it was built by King Pandukhabhaya who ruled the kingdom around 377-307 B.C As a first step to the irrigation system of ancient Anuradhapura. Basawakulama is designed to restore water which is gained from rain and distributed throughout the kingdom. Abhayawapiya wewa is capable of bare of 1910 acre-feet water capacity. The capacity of the tank is about 174 ha of water. The bund is 3900 feet in length and 15.5 in average depth.

The prime service of the wewa is to facilitate and provide safe water and sanitation services for the pilgrims and citizens while providing irrigation facilities for 450 acres. Even in the monsoon season, the Abhayawapiya Wewa hasn’t been flourished ever. The wewa contains a Biso kotuwa , Pita wana (Overt flow of water), Sorowwa (Outflow of water) which added significance to the construction.

Evidence archeologists define that it as one of the proud ancient irrigation systems in Sri Lanka. In fact, it was the first-ever built tank that is filled with up to 5 feet in height at any time. King Pandukabhaya built this wewa in 437 B.C after ending an everlasting battle with his uncles, to survive his legacy to the throne. He was the pioneer of building the capital of the Anuradhapura Kingdom. He ruled the kingdom for 70 years. In addition to the concept ‘Wewai Dagebai Gamai Pancalai ‘ (Tank and Dagoba-Village and temple) which was originated and illustrated among Sinhalese was ensured. Sinhalese were advanced in building artificial reservoirs and canals with complex irrigation systems in the past. This knowledge was extended during the time of King Panudkabhaya as well as under King Parakrmabahu and King Dathusena. King Pandukabhaya is the creator of Abahya wewa, Jaya wewa, and Gamini Wewa. It should be pointed out that the reigned kings have done a great service to the development of agriculture and Irrigation systems in Sri Lanka.

17. Nuwara wewa

Nuwarawewa reservoir is a great destination to discover the history of Sri Lanka. Nuwara wewa is one of the men made reservoirs out of the 3 main reservoirs in Anuradhapura. Basawakkulama (Abhaya wewa) and the Tissa wewa are the other 2 reservoirs in Anuradhapura. Nuwara wewa has existed off the right bank of the Malwathu Oya. Nuwara wewa is a great example to elaborate the irrigation technology of ancient Sri Lanka. It was built by King Valagamba in other names King Vattagamini Abhaya in the 1st century BCE.

Archeologists say that it belongs to the 1st century, yet it has been proved the bricks used to make Abhayagirir dagoba and Nuwara wewa are similar in size.

Thus Sri Lanka was invaded by Chola invaders from South India several times. The brunt of the reservoir is about 3 miles in length while it is 37 feet in height. However, most of the rocks which were used to build this dam were removed to construct a road bridge across the Malwatu Oya. Therefore a canal was designed to bring water to Nuwara wewa. The canal was wide in 40 feet. The water depth was about 4 feet and 150 feet from the dam.

18. Kala Wewa

Kala Wewa, built by the King Dhathusena, who ruled the country during 455 – 473 CE in the 5th century, is a twin reservoir complex (Kala Wewa & Balalu Wewa) which has a capacity of 123 million cubic meters. This reservoir complex has facilitated with a stone made spillway and three main sluices. The water of the tank was transferred to the Tissa Wewa in Anuradhapura by an ancient 54 miles (86.9 Km) long canal called Jaya Ganga alias Yodha Ela, which has a fine slope of one foot per mile, but according to some historians, it is one inch per mile. It is another wonder of a primeval hydraulic engineering facility in ancient Ceylon.

Tamil invaders who arrived from South India ruled the north part of the country during the period from 429 to 455 AD. King Dhathusena defeated the invaders and united the country and then he wanted to rebuild the irrigation system by constructing several tanks, canals, etc., in and around the kingdom of Anuradhapura.

After completion of the construction of Kala Wewa, king Dhathusena built another tank called Balalu Wewa nearby and connected the two tanks together making the biggest tank in Sri Lanka. King Mahinda ii, who ruled the country during 777 – 797 CE expanded the tank further. There is a 12-meter high standing statue of Lord Buddha created by the same ruler. This statue is named after the village it is situated so it is called Avukana Buddha Statue and it can be seen over-looking at the Kala Wewa nearby.

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Explore Anuradhapura

Plan your trip to anuradhapura: best of anuradhapura tourism.

Essential Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura Is Great For

Archaeology tours.

Historical Tours

Ceybank Rest Hotel
The Lake Forest Hotel
Heritage Hotel Anuradhapura
Forest Rock Garden Resort
Rajarata Hotel Anuradapura
Mango Mango
Little Paradise Anuradhapura
Palhena Restaurant
Gemi Gedara Restaurant - Anuradhapura
Ritigala Forest Monastery
Kandy To Ella Train
Ruwanwelisaya
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
Private City Day Tour in Anuradhapura
Half day tour - in Sacred city of Anuradhapura Or sacred city of Mihintale.
Anuradhapura Ancient City Tuk Tuk Tour
Anuradhapura UNESCO Heritage Site Mobile Self-Guided Tour (Sri Lanka)
One Day Tour - Sacred city of Anuradhapura & Sacred city of Mihintale. (Sunset)

21 Amazing Places to Visit in Anuradhapura in 2024

Anuradhapura ticks a lot of boxes: it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, part of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, and, with so many things to do in Anuradhapura, is one of the best tourist attractions in the country. Not to mention, the ruins at the Anuradhapura ancient city rank as some of the world’s greatest and oldest Buddhist monuments.

There are literally dozens of wonderful places to visit in Anuradhapura and a visit to this spectacular place should rank highly on any Sri Lankan itinerary.

Wondering where to start? Never fear, in this Anuradhapura guide, we’ll give you all the information you need so you find the best things to do in Anuradhapura and make the most out of your visit to this wonderful city.

Sri Lanka Travel Resources

Start here: The Essential Sri Lanka Travel Guide and 47 Essential Sri Lanka Travel Tips
Getting there: search for flights to Colombo
Guidebook: pick up a copy of Bradt Sri Lanka
Where to stay: search for guesthouses and hotels
How to get around: search for trains and buses
Travel insurance: get travel insurance for your trip
Gear: pick up a Steripen for clean water 24/7
Money: get a Wise money card to save money in Sri Lanka

Table of Contents

When to Visit Anuradhapura

Ruwanwelisaya, one of the best places to visit in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is best visited from November to April. During this time, the days will be (moderately) cooler. You can visit year-round, however, after April it becomes very hot.

We visited in mid-April and it regularly reached over 35C during the day.

An important note about visiting Anuradhapura: as the Anuradhapura ancient city is an important pilgrimage site, it becomes very busy during the monthly poya day (full moon). During this time, pilgrims flock to the sites to pay worship and respect. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, it’s best to plan your visit outside these days. Otherwise, if you don’t mind crowds, it’s quite the cultural experience!

Anuradhapura Location

Anuradhapura is located 205 km north of Colombo in Sri Lanka’s North Central province.

Anuradhapura is a part of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, and as such, is within close proximity to the other major historical sites in the country, including Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa.

Enjoy your visit to Anuradhapura? Read 14 Awesome Things to Do in Sri Lanka for more inspiration

Anuradhapura Overview

Anuradhapura comprises both the ancient city (one of the tourist places in Anuradhapura) and the ‘new’ city, where the shops, restaurants, guesthouses and residential development are located.

There are a couple of things that make Anuradhapura unique amongst other Asian ancient cities: firstly, the ruins of Anuradhapura ancient city are spread throughout the new city, rather than contained in one, separate precinct. This provides the new city with a vibrance and colour not seen in other Sri Lankan towns.

Secondly is the contemporary relevance of Anuradhapura. Several of the sites remain in use as important Buddhist pilgrimage sites and it’s not uncommon to see groups of pilgrims paying a visit alongside the tourists.

Read next: Sri Lanka’s Best Hidden Gems

The new city of Anuradhapura is very pleasant. It has a very distinct small-town feel and it’s very easy to get around. It also has lots of great accommodation options and you can easily rent bikes and scooters to explore the area.

Buddha sitting under a tree in the ancient city of Anuradhapura Sri Lanka

Anuradhapura Ancient City History

Anuradhapura played a very important role in Sri Lanka’s history. The city was Sri Lanka’s first capital in 380 BCE.

Under the reign of Devanampiya Tissa, it rose to become a major world city. Its rulers constructed enormous water tanks (i.e., reservoirs), which allowed the city to grow and flourish. You can see these water tanks throughout the city – they’re so large they look like small lakes!

Heading to the East Coast after Anuradhapura? Check out our guide on Uppuveli Beach and Nilaveli Beach

How to Get to Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is located right in the centre of Sri Lanka, so it’s pretty straightforward to get to.

There are two train stations in Anuradhapura. The Main Anuradhapura station is closer to the old bus station and is in town. The other, smaller, station is located south of town and is known as Anuradhapura New Town Station.

From Colombo, the train takes around 3.5 hours and costs anywhere from 260 to 750 LKR . You can search for and buy tickets online at 12Go Asia .

Similarly, Anuradhapura has two bus stations: the ‘Old Bus Station’ and the ‘New Bus Station’. Different buses arrive / leave depending on where you want to go / are arriving from.

The Old Bus Station services areas to the south, while the New Bus Station services destinations to the north and east.

Learn how to visit Gartmore Falls, the most beautiful waterfall in Sri Lanka

Places to Visit in Anuradhapura

There are a wealth of things to do in Anuradhapura and you can easily spend a few days exploring the area.

Anuradhapura Ancient City

Of all the places to visit in Anuradhapura, exploring the ancient city should be your first priority. It is the number one thing to do in Anuradhapura and for good reason.

You can expect to find enormous dagobas (stupas), ancient water tanks (irrigation systems) and crumbling temples. It’s also highly likely there’ll be many pilgrims visiting as well.

The ancient city is spread over a massive area of 40 square kilometres – i.e., it’s really huge. Fortunately, there are also heaps of greenery, parks, lakes (mostly ancient water tanks) and even rice fields, so strolling or riding through is a great thing to do in Anuradhapura.

There are literally dozens of places to visit in Anuradhapura. In this Anuradhapura guide, we highlight some of the more notable Anuradhapura tourist places, as well as the free and low-cost sites.

Pilgrims walking through a temple, one of the best things to do in Anuradhapura

The Mahavihara Complex

This is an unticketed part of the ancient city, so it’s a free place to visit in Anuradhapura. That makes it a great Anuradhapura tourist place to prioritise if you’re on a budget.

It’s also home to some of Anuradhapura’s biggest star attractions and best things to do in Anuradhapura, including:

Sri Maha Bodhi: This is a sacred bodhi tree. Legend has it that it was grown from a cutting from India, making it the oldest tree in the world (over 2000 years old). This is still a very active pilgrimage site, so you will see locals praying here.
Ruvanvelisaya Dagoba: This massive white stupa measures 290m in circumference, and is guarded by a fleet of 344 stone elephants. It’s considered one of the most sacred areas for Buddhists all over the world.
The Brazen Palace (Lowamahapaya): These are the remains of 1600 columns of a former city palace. There is not much left, nor is it that impressive. But you’ll get to see a glimpse of it as you walk between the Sri Maha Bodhi and The Ruvanvelisaya Dagoba.
Thuparam Dagoba

Abhayagiri Complex

This place to visit in Anuradhapura is ticketed, but in our experience, tickets aren’t frequently checked. The main attraction here is the stupendous Abhayagiri Dagoba, which dates back to the 1st century BCE.

The Abhayagiri Dagoba was originally over 100 metres high, making it one of the greatest structures of the ancient world. At its time, it was only matched by the Great Pyramids of Giza. It is stunning and incredible to see.

Isurumuniya Complex

Constructed in the 3rd century BCE, this is a very charming temple built into a rock. It’s very unique and we really enjoyed visiting this Anuradhapura tourist place. Make sure you don’t miss the opportunity to throw a coin into the temple. It’s one of the best things to do in Anuradhapura!

This place to visit in Anuradhapura has a separate ticket, which costs 200 LKR per person, making it a very affordable site within the Anuradhapura ancient city.

Interested in the north of Sri Lanka? Read Sri Lanka – 10 Reasons You Shouldn’t Skip the North

Tissa Wewa

Tissa Wewa is one of the ancient water tanks in the Anuradhapura ancient city. Visiting Tissa Wewa is a nice place to catch the sunset and a great thing to do in Anuradhapura at the end of the day. It feels like a small lake and you can see the two glorious white stupas in the distance. This area is completely free to visit.

Pilgrims walking at Dambulla Cave Temple

Ranmasu Uyana

Also known as the Royal Pleasure Garden, Ranmasu Uyana is a garden where the once unmarried kings and queens came to bathe and meet new partners. So, it’s pretty much a version of Tinder, just 2000 years old. This place to visit in Anuradhapura is free.

Other Places to Visit in the Anuradhapura Ancient City

Lovamahapaya
Elephant Pond
Aukana Buddha Statue
Thuparamaya
Samadhi Buddha Statue

Visiting Mihintale is one of the best things to do in Anuradhapura and should not be missed.

Located 13 km east of Anuradhapura, Mihintale is the location where Buddhism first arrived on the island. All of Mihintale is located on a large hill, overlooking the central plains. From the top, you have great views of the surrounding countryside.

Make sure you visit Mihintale for sunset, as the colours from the top of the hill are simply outstanding.

There are a number of important monuments at Mihintale, including:

The Assembly Hall
The Sinha Pokuna
The Ambasthale Dagoba. This is a ceremonial stairway, lined with frangipani trees, which leads to the Ambasthale Dagoba. This was built over the spot where King Devanampiya was converted to Buddhism.
The Aradhana Gala. There are great views of the surrounding valley from here.

When you arrive at Mihintale, you will reach the bottom of the hill. It takes around 25 minutes to walk up to the area where all of the monuments are.

Tickets to Mihintale cost 1000 LKR per person. You can probably get away without buying a ticket, as the inspection booth is to the far left of the path up the hill and they’re not super strict on checking.

How to Get To Mihintale

Mihintale is approximately 30 minutes from Anuradhapura.

The best way to get to Mihintale is to rent a scooter in town and drive out. Otherwise, you can hire a tuk-tuk to take you. This can be organised locally, in town (around 4000 LKR), or via an organised tour .

If you want a bit of exercise, there are even fun cycling tours from Anuradhapura to Mihintale !

Dambulla Cave Temple

The Dambulla Cave Temple is another one of Sri Lanka’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The caves are very beautiful and absolutely worth a visit. We went with pretty low expectations and were pleasantly surprised by this Anuradhapura tourist place.

Visiting the Dambulla Cave Temple makes a great day trip from Anuradhapura city, or on your way to other destinations in the cultural triangle, like Sigiriya.

The Dambulla Cave Temple features five separate caves, each featuring beautiful murals and Buddha statues. In total, there are around 150 Buddha statues and paintings. These make up some of Sri Lanka’s most important religious art. The Buddha images were first created more than 2000 years ago and have been added to since.

The Dambulla Cave Temple is set at the top of a hill, which takes around 15 – 30 minutes to climb. There is a clear set of stairs, so it is not a difficult climb. My elderly parents were able to do it without any problems.

Besides the actual caves, the beautiful views over the central plains of Dambulla are also an attraction in itself and a wonderful thing to do in Anuradhapura. On a clear day, you can even see Sigiriya in the distance.

When you arrive at the Dambulla Cave Temple, you buy your ticket at the base of the hill. Entrance costs 2000 LKR per person.

At the Dambulla Cave Temple, there are guides who will give you a brief tour of the caves and some history of the area. They ask for around 300 – 500 LKR, but the ‘tour’ is very quick and not really worth it.

How to Get To the Dambulla Cave Temple

The Dambulla Cave Temple is located in the city of Dambulla, 63 km south of Anuradhapura.

From Anuradhapura, you can hire a driver to take you. It should take about 1.5 hours and cost 12,000 LKR for the entire day, roundtrip.

To get to Dambulla via public transport, you can take either a train or a bus. The closest train station is in Habarana, which is 25 km north. Local buses run frequently from the train station to town.

You can also take a bus from Anuradhapura to Dambulla. This will take approximately 2 hours and cost around 150 – 200 LKR.

You can always visit the Dambulla Cave Temple as part of a tour . There are many, many options, most of which include a visit to Pidurangala and/or Sigiriya.

Visit Wilpattu National Park

Anuradhapura is an ideal location to base yourself to visit Wilpattu National Park , the best place in Sri Lanka to go on a safari. It’s a great thing to do in Anuradhapura!

Read more about visiting Wilpattu National Park in our complete guide

With heaps of animals (including the elusive Sri Lankan leopard!) and very few visitors, you can expect tranquillity, nature and lots of fauna.

A visit to Wilpattu can easily be organised once you are in Anuradhapura, or in advance as part of a tour .

Visit Minneriya National Park

If you want to get more wildlife in, another excellent place to visit in Anuradhapura is Minneriay National Park. Located just a couple of hours away from Anuradhapura, Minneriya National Park is perhaps the best place in Sri Lanka to see elephants. It’s another excellent thing to do in Anuradhapura.

You can visit Minneriya as part of a half-day safari .

Anuradhapura Tips and Tricks

For visiting the Anuradhapura ancient city, give yourself at least one full day at a minimum . There are many things to do in the Anuradhapura ancient city, so be sure to take your time. If you can, another day will really enhance your experience.
Start early! It gets super hot in Anuradhapura and trust us, you’ll want to tour the Anuradhapura tourist places in the morning to beat the heat.
Rent a bike or a scooter . The places to visit in Anuradhapura are very spread out and it’s hot. It’s much more enjoyable to tour the Anuradhapura tourist places on a bike or scooter than attempting to walk between sites. You can also hire a tuk-tuk to take you around for the day. Of course, you can always organise a tour .
Dress appropriately. All of the Anuradhapura tourist places are still sites of religious pilgrimage (including Mihintale and the Dambulla Cave Temple), so you are expected to dress accordingly. This means covering your legs, shoulders and upper arms. You are also not allowed to wear a hat.
Wear socks . You will have to take your shoes off at each Anuradhapura tourist place and the ground gets excruciatingly hot. Socks will be a lifesaver.
Tickets . Be strategic with your entrance ticket for the places to visit in Anuradhapura. The ticket for the Anuradhapura ancient city is very expensive at $25 USD per person per day (and this only covers the 5 largest monuments). Plan your visit so that you can see all the ticketed Anuradhapura tourist places in one day and then leave the free or cheaper sites for the next day. If you want to save that $25, note that tickets are usually only inspected around the Jetavanarama sites and the Anuradhapura Museum. We were not checked at the Abhayagiri site but were checked at Twin Ponds.

Looking for more Sri Lanka travel tips during your Anuradhapura visit? Read 47 Essential Sri Lanka Travel Tips

Is Anuradhapura Worth Visiting?

So, is Anuradhapura worth visiting? Yes, Anuradhapura is absolutely worth visiting!

There are a few reasons why Anuradhapura is worth visiting: there is a wealth of interesting and beautiful places to visit in Anuradhapura, there are some excellent day trips you can make, it’s a great city to get a sense of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage, plus it’s an accessible and pleasant city.

Add to the mix some great places to stay in Anuradhapura and some good food options, and you’ve got yourself a champagne travel destination. So in sum, Anuradhapura is 100% worth visiting.

Where to Stay in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is awash with great value accommodation options.

Ceylonima Homestay

This was one of the best places we stayed in all of Sri Lanka and we can’t recommend it enough. The rooms are comfortable and the food is delicious. What really makes this place stand out though, are the owners, who make you feel like part of the family. They will go above and beyond and can arrange anything you want, at the best price possible.

Aryana Boutique Hotel

This is a lovely boutique hotel located very centrally in town. The rooms are slightly small but still very nice and comfortable. The best part though is the much-welcomed pool, which is especially nice to jump into after a day exploring the ruins.

The food isn’t great so you’re best seeking meals elsewhere.

Uga Ulagalla

At the top of the scale, this exclusive resort features everything you could ever ask for. The private villas feature plunge pools and there’s a spa on site. It’s located 40 km from town in a luxurious setting, surrounded by paddy fields and orchards.

How to Get Around Anuradhapura

It’s very easy to get around Anuradhapura. Tuk-tuks are readily available, both on-demand and for daily hire. If you hire one for the entire day, expect to pay $20 – $30 USD.

Most guesthouses can arrange scooter or bike hire. A scooter will cost around 2500 LKR per day and a bicycle will cost around 500 LKR per day.

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13 Comments

This looks like an amazing place. I also love off the beaten path places, and appreciate all your tips! I almost went to Sri Lanka this year, but missed out, so another time!

Hi Heather, thanks so much for your feedback! Yes, it was a turbulent year in Sri Lanka’s history but things are looking up for next year! It’s a wonderful country to visit. 🙂

Wow, looks like there are loads of amazing things to do in Anuradhapura! I’ll add it to my list

Thanks Katy!

Something new to add to my Srilanka itinerary. I would love to plan a day trip to this UNESCO site.

We can’t recommend it enough. If you’re going to Sri Lanka, you’ll love this place.

I love cities with a rich history! Thanks for all these amazing things to do in Anuradhapura!

You are very welcome! Glad you enjoyed the article. 🙂

This looks like a highlight of Sri Lanka! I would love to visit the cave temples, especially. I always thought of Sri Lanka as mostly a beach and nature destination, so it’s good to understand more of the history.

The Dambulla Cave Temple was a personal favourite for us. Super interesting, with great views over the plains. Highly recommended!

Beautiful! excellent resource, thanks for sharing

All these cultural sites sounds fabulous. I would particularly like to visit Mihintale as it was the original place of Buddhism also because of the natural beauty. There is something very spiritual about being in a natural place at sunset.

Thanks Karen, we completely agree! Mihintale has a wonderful vibe and the incredible natural beauty that surrounds the site only adds to its appeal.

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Anuradhapura Travel Guide: The Complete Guide

The city of Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been the center of Theravada Buddhism for several centuries. It is located 205 km north of Colombo (current capital city of Sri Lanka) in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province. Standing on the banks of the historic Malvathu Oya, this city is an ancient city in the world. It has been continuously colonized by different rulers. Plus, it is a famous city for its storied remnants of ancient Sri Lankan civilization.

Furthermore, these remnants of the city continuously draw millions of tourists and the sights of this city are considered to be most evocative sights in the entire South Asia. Besides, the city is rich in archaeological and architectural wonders with elevated brick towers, ancient pools, mammoth dagobas, and crumbling temples. All of these wonderful establishments were created during the ruling period of different dynasties.

Top Things to see in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is a major part of the cultural triangle, which is significant to the Buddhist devotees in particular. With that being said, the city has several top-class tourist attractions and tourists can buy a $25 ticket for entering to almost all the attractions in the city of Anuradhapura. Also, if anyone wants to visit all the sites in the cultural triangle, a $50 ticket would be enough.

Following are the top attractions of Anuradhapura –

Sri Maha Bodhia
Ruwanweli Stup
Lovamahapaya
Abhayagiri Stupa
Elephant Pond
Aukana Buddha Statue
Thuparamaya
Samadhi Buddha Statue
Isurumuniya
Jetavanarama Stupa

Sri Maha Bodhiya: This is one of the greatest attractions of Anuradhapura. This tree was first planted in 249 B.C. and it was brought by the daughter of King Ashoka (Indian emperor). There is a legend regarding this tree. It was believed that while meditating Buddha experienced enlightenment under the Indian branch of the Jaya Sri Maha in Buddha Gaya in India. This world-famous tree is believed to be the most ancient surviving historical tree in the entire universe.

Ruwanwelisaya: The Ruwanwelisaya is an eye-catching attraction that has immense architectural value. This is a sacred stupa, which was built by King Dutugemunu. The king Dutugemunu was famous for his grand victory over the Chola King, Elara. Standing at 300 feet (91m), this monument is one of the tallest monuments in the world. Also, it has a circumference of 950 ft (290m). In addition to this, the Kaunghmudaw Pagoda in Sagaing, Myanmar has been molded similarly to this Ruwanwelisaya Stupa.

Thuparamaya: The word – Thuparamaya is a combination of Stupa and Arama and it means monastery. This is one of the ancient Stupas in Sri Lanka, which was built in the third century B.C. by King Devanampiya. When Mahinda (who brought Buddhism to Sri Lanka) wanted to return to India to worship Buddha relics, the king intervened and said they can build a place where the relics should be worshipped. Afterwards, Thuparamaya was created and the rest is history.

Things to do in Anuradhapura

Tourists can do a lot of stuff’s in Anuradhapura city. You can gather valuable insights regarding Buddhism or you can enlighten yourself with the historical attractions of the city. In addition to this, the city is steeped in cultural and religious heritage, which ranges from the temples, carvings, and reservoirs to the sacred Dagabas. Moreover, you can visit the historical artifacts and archeological sites of the city to explore new things. On top of that, staying in the new town of Anuradhapura will be a good option since it has a lot to offer to the visiting people.

Furthermore, you can shop in Anuradhapura and collect local souvenirs like – replica artifacts, carved wooden figures, postcards, earrings, etc. to make your travel trip a lasting memory. Besides, you can taste the authentic Sri Lankan meal in the hotels and restaurants of Anuradhapura. The meals will be quite cheap and delicious. Plus, the street markets are crowded and you can pay a visit to them to figure out how locals interact with the visiting people.

With all these things, you shouldn’t miss the chance to discover the city in bicycle ride because it’s the best thing to do in Anuradhapura. If you take a bicycle, you can see all the remnants of Anuradhapura because all of them are spread in the city. Now, anyone can hire a bicycle from the rest houses. You just need to pay around Rs 250-300. Also, tourists prefer the tuk-tuks to travel within the city and these tuk-tuks rides will give you a taste of local living standard.

How is the weather in Anuradhapura?

The weather in Anuradhapura is mild and sometimes, it can be bit hot, especially in the month of May when the normal temperature is 29.0°C. However, the warmest month is March when the temperature rises to 33.2°C.

How to reach Anuradhapura?

Now, to reach Anuradhapura, you have three option and they are – by air, by rail, and by bus. These options are explained below –

By Air: The Colombo airport is the nearby airport to the city of Anuradhapura (183 km). Also, the tourists can take bus, cab or taxi, and train from the airport for travelling to Anuradhapura.

By Rail: Anuradhapura city has two train stations. The first one is closer to the old bus town in the city and it is known as Main Anuradhapura station. The other train station is smaller than the previous one and it is located at the South region of the city. It is known as Anuradhapura New town station.

By Bus: The city has two bus stations – ‘Old Bus Station’ and ‘New Bus Station’. If you want to go to the southern part, you have to reach the Old Bus Station. In addition to this, if you wish to head towards to north and east, you have to take a bus from the New Bus Station.

Distance from Major Travel Places

Arugam Bay to Anuradhapura – 308 km
Adam’s Peak to Anuradhapura – 247 km
Batticaloa to Anuradhapura – 200 km
Bentota to Anuradhapura – 264 km
Beruwala to Anuradhapura – 252 km
Bundala National Park to Anuradhapura – 344 km
Colombo to Anuradhapura – 209 km
Dambulla to Anuradhapura – 72 km
Ella to Anuradhapura – 243 km
Galle to Anuradhapura – 306 km
Hambantota to Anuradhapura – 370 km
Hikkaduwa to Anuradhapura – 295 km
Horton Plains to Anuradhapura – 288 km
Jaffna to Anuradhapura – 194 km
Kalkudah to Anuradhapura – 175 km
Kalpitiya to Anuradhapura – 119 km
Kandy to Anuradhapura – 152 km
Katunayake to Anuradhapura – 170 km
Kitulgala to Anuradhapura – 198 km
Knuckles Range to Anuradhapura – 173 km
Mannar to Anuradhapura – 107 km
Matara to Anuradhapura – 335 km
Minneriya to Anuradhapura – 87 km
Negombo to Anuradhapura – 168 km
Nilaveli to Anuradhapura – 112 km
Nuwara Eliya to Anuradhapura – 255 km
Pasikudah to Anuradhapura – 177 km
Pinnawela to Anuradhapura – 135 km
Polonnaruwa to Anuradhapura – 108 km
Puttalam to Anuradhapura – 74 km
Ratnapura to Anuradhapura – 220 km
Sigiriya to Anuradhapura – 78 km
Sinharaja to Anuradhapura – 350 km
Trincomalee to Anuradhapura – 105 km
Unawatuna to Anuradhapura – 305 km
Weligama to Anuradhapura – 325 km
Wilpattu National Park to Anuradhapura – 55 km
Yala National Park to Anuradhapura – 340 km

Finally, Anuradhapura is a picturesque city with lots of ancient ruins. You have to be on your toes to explore this wonderful city. After visiting this city, you will be excited and happy because there is nothing like the city of Anuradhapura. So, don’t miss a bit of Anuradhapura and uncover all the attractions of this marvelous city with our Anuradhapura travel guide.

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Places To Visit In Anuradhapura

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1. Sri Maha Bodhi

4 km from city center 1 out of 20 Places To Visit in Anuradhapura

The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is one of the most ancient trees which are living even today standing tall in the Mahamewna Gardens in Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka. The tree is believed to have sprouted from a cutting brought from Bodh Gaya in India, where Gautama Buddha had attained enlightenment. The tree is an authentic and living link to Gautama Buddha and is often respected as the oldest tree in history which has a recorded date of the plantation.

2. Lovamahapaya

4 km from city center 2 out of 20 Places To Visit in Anuradhapura

The Brazen Palace or Lovamahapaya is a 2000-year-old palace constructed by King Dutugemunu in 2nd century B.C and had 1600 stone columns that supported nine stories reaching 150 feet and sides of 400 feet length with 1000 rooms. It is also known as the Brazen Place because of the bronze tiles that were used on its roof.

3. Ruwanweliseya

4 km from city center 3 out of 20 Places To Visit in Anuradhapura

The Ruwanweliseya stupa is one of the largest stupas or dagobas, which is in the heart of the beautiful heritage city of Anuradhapura. This magnificent stupa was built by King Dutugamunu, who was hailed to be the hero of the island. The Ruwanweliseya stupa is also known as the Maha stupa and is one of the most adorned structures of the people of Sri Lanka.

4. Thuparamaya

5 km from city center 4 out of 20 Places To Visit in Anuradhapura

Thuparamaya, also known as Thuparama, is the first stupa which was constructed in Sri Lanka after the introduction to Buddhism and is in the beautiful city of Anuradhapura. The ancient stupa of Thuparamaya was built during the reign of the King Devamnampiyatissa somewhere in the 3rd Century BCE and is said to enshrine the right collar bone of Gautama Buddha. The ruins of the complex today cover an area of approximately three and a half acres of land.

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Magnificent 9 days in sri lanka, complete sri lanka holiday package in 12 days, sri lanka round tours 15 nights 16 days, 5. archaeological museum, anuradhapura.

4 km from city center 5 out of 20 Places To Visit in Anuradhapura

The archaeological museum or Puravidu Bhavana of Anuradhapura holds some exciting artefacts, carvings and ancient everyday items found after excavations in Anuradhapura and other historical sites around Sri Lanka. Both the interior and exterior parts of the museum display historical items.

6. Jetavanaramaya Monastery

5 km from city center 6 out of 20 Places To Visit in Anuradhapura

Jetavanaramaya monastery is one of the largest monasteries in the heritage city of Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka. This magnificent structure was the third-largest structure in the ancient world. Legend has it that a part of Buddha’s sash or belt was tied and preserved here at the Jetavanaramaya monastery.

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7. Ratnaprasada

7 km from city center 7 out of 20 Places To Visit in Anuradhapura

Famous for its beautifully carved stone structures, the Rathna Prasada is the Uposatha house (a place for the cleansing of the defiled mind) of the Abhayagiri Viharaya. It holds great importance to Buddhists and is a historical landmark in Anuradhapura. Built-in 192-194 AD by King Kanitta Tissa who ruled Ceylon, Rathna Prasada or Gem palace was originally a seven storeyed skyscraper with tiered roof, had beautiful guard stones (Mura Gal) and a statue of Buddha made of gold.

8. Abhayagiri Vihara

7 km from city center 8 out of 20 Places To Visit in Anuradhapura

The Abhayagiri Vihara is one of the most beautiful and exciting structures which is in the atmospheric setting of Anuradhapura. The grand scale of the monastery ruins is genuinely breathtaking and can be viewed at any time, be it the break of dawn or dusk. The Abhayagiri Vihara has a beautiful and shimmering glow.

9. Mihintale

0 km from city center 9 out of 20 Places To Visit in Anuradhapura

Situated near Anuradhapura, Mihintale is a sacred mountain and a revered pilgrimage site for Buddhists. It's believed to be the place where Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka. The site is dotted with numerous religious and architectural landmarks, including ancient stupas, temples, caves, and statues. You need to climb the 1,840 steps to reach the summit, where you will be greeted by stunning panoramic views.

10. Isurumuniya

3 km from city center 10 out of 20 Places To Visit in Anuradhapura

Sri Lanka's ancient capital city, Anuradhapura is home to relics, stupas and rocky hills that bring an aura of serenity. Isurumuniya is one of the granite, marble and stone structures located near Tissa Wewa, and this Buddhist temple boasts of architecture and sculptures that showcase the emancipation of the artists.

11. Sigiriya Rock Fortress

56 km from city center 11 out of 20 Places To Visit in Anuradhapura

Sigiriya, often referred to as the "Lion Rock," is an ancient rock fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the central Matale District. It is often visited on a day trip from Anuradhapura. Rising dramatically from the surrounding plains, Sigiriya is a colossal rock formation standing around 200 meters tall. Its sheer vertical walls and flattened summit once served as a fortified royal citadel.

12. Samadhi Buddha Statue

7 km from city center 12 out of 20 Places To Visit in Anuradhapura

The Samadhi Buddha statue in Anuradhapura is an iconic and revered sculpture representing Lord Buddha in a state of deep meditation or samadhi. This statue holds significant religious and historical importance in Sri Lanka, situated within the Mahamevuna Park in Anuradhapura.

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Temples in Anuradhapura

13. Kadireshan Kovil

0 km from city center 13 out of 20 Places To Visit in Anuradhapura

The temple of Sri Kadhiresan, also known as Kadhiresan Kovil, is a Hindu temple close to the Jayanthi Viharaya Buddhist temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, also known as Kadireshan or Kathiravel, a popular deity among Tamil Hindus. Lord Murugan, often depicted as a youthful god riding a peacock and carrying a spear, is worshipped as the god of war, victory, wisdom, and compassion.

14. Anuradhapura Ruins

0 km from city center 14 out of 20 Places To Visit in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura’s history and existence go back as early as the 4th century BC. Being that ancient and encountering over 2000 years of historic events, Anuradhapura is now home to ruins fortress, palaces, temples, stupas museums and everything one thinks of when they think of Royalty.

15. Ritigala

36 km from city center 15 out of 20 Places To Visit in Anuradhapura

Ritigala situated between Polonnaruwa and the old town of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka is a hilly forest and a place of Buddhist worship. The monastery is named after the 40m tall Ritigala trees in the mid slopes of the hill; this Buddhist monastery has inscriptions that date back to 1st century BC.

16. wilpattu national park

0 km from city center 16 out of 20 Places To Visit in Anuradhapura

Wilpattu National Park is situated on the western coast of Sri Lanka, approximately an hour away from the ancient city of Anuradhapura. This national park has the enviable distinction of being the oldest and the largest national park in the country.

17. Ranmasu Uyana

3 km from city center 17 out of 20 Places To Visit in Anuradhapura

A park in the pre-Christian era of Sri Lanka, Ranmasu Uyana is a sculpted rock-carved for bathing purposes during the days’ monarchy. Anuradhapura is the heritage capital of Sri Lanka hosts structures with intricate stone carvings and excellent craftsmanship. The Ranmasu Uyana was one among them.

18. Jayanthi Viharaya

0 km from city center 18 out of 20 Places To Visit in Anuradhapura

Jayanthi Vihara is a temple in Anuradhapura, the ancient royal capital of Sri Lanka. As the structure functions as a Buddhist temple and school, it is also a great place to observe the daily life of monks and Buddhist teachings.

19. Anuradhapura Maha Viharaya

0 km from city center 19 out of 20 Places To Visit in Anuradhapura

The Anuradhapura Maha Viharaya is an important maha viharaya (large Buddhist monastery) for Theravada Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

20. Lankarama Dagoba

0 km from city center 20 out of 20 Places To Visit in Anuradhapura

Lankarama Dagoba is a stupa built by King Vattagamini Abhaya around 1st century BC. One of the sacred Buddha sites in Anuradhapura, the dagoba(stupa) houses stone-pillar ruins around the main stupa.

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Visit the Ruins of Anuradhapura: One of Sri Lanka’s Ancient Capitals

View of stupa in Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka with text overlay

The temples in Anuradhapura are an important pilgrimage destination for Buddhists. Read on for some of the best places to visit in Anuradhapura, how to get there, how to get around and where to stay .

The sacred city of Anuradhapura is an ancient capital in Sri Lanka and one of the country’s precious UNESCO Heritage Sites . This city is a living site in the sense that the ruins of Anuradhapura remain a pilgrimage destination for devout Buddhists in Sri Lanka and around the world: it was established around what people believe to be a branch of the Bodhi tree where Buddha attained enlightenment.

Buddha Statue at Ruwanwelisaya in Anuradhapura Sri Lanka

Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka was the country’s first capital city that flourished for more than 13 centuries. The city was abandoned after an invasion, after which the capital was shifted to Polonnaruwa . Today, the sprawling Anuradhapura ruins comprise of crumbling monasteries, temples and palaces that can be explored over the course of a day.

Though some people opt to stay overnight in Anuradhapura, it is an easy day trip destination from Dambulla or Sigiriya . Read on for what you need to know before visiting the ruins of Anuradhapura!

Planning a trip to Sri Lanka? Click here for 12 things you should know before visiting Sri Lanka!

How to get to Anuradhapura

Lotus offerings in Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka

To get to Anuradhapura I would actually recommend that you base yourself in Sigiriya or Dambulla: this way, you can climb the giant rock fortress, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple and go on a safari in Minneriya or Kaudulla National Parks in addition to touring the Anuradhapura ruins.

In terms of distance, Anuradhapura is a 4 hour drive away from Colombo (or you can take a train – more details here ), 90 minute drive away from Dambulla or Sigiriya, or a 4 hour drive from Kandy. It is easy to go on a day trip from Dambulla to Anuradhapura; I would not recommend going on a day trip from Colombo or Kandy to Anuradhapura due to the drive times.

Your best bet is to ask your hotel to organize a van to take you to Anuradhapura and drive you between the various landmarks – expect to pay anywhere from 15,000 LKR and upwards for the day if you’re visiting from Dambulla or Sigiriya.

How to get around Anuradhapura

Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura Sri Lanka

It gets really, really hot in this part of Sri Lanka, and after 3 hours of sightseeing in Anuradhapura I suffered from heat stroke as there is zero-to-minimal shade. I do not recommend cycling or walking around if you want to cover the top places to visit in Anuradhapura. Moreso than Polonnaruwa , the sights in Anuradhapura are even more spread out and further apart.

The best way to see the ancient city of Anuradhapura, especially if you only have 1 day to see it all, is by (air conditioned) car. Google Maps is fairly accurate when it comes to the individual sights, or you can grab a map from the ticket office/archaeological museum.

Entry fees for Anuradhapura

I arrived at the Archaeological Museum (which doubles as the Anuradhapura ticket office) at approximately 10 AM and was done by 2 PM. The Anuradhapura ruins are open from 7 AM to 5:30 PM every day, and I would recommend that you get an early start as the weather in Anuradhapura is stifling and overwhelmingly steamy.

An adult ticket costs 25 USD. Tickets are half-priced for children from 6-12 years old. This ticket does not include entry to Isurumuniya Rajamaha Viharaya or Sri Maha Bodhi – each of these two sites has their own separate entry ticket priced between 200-500 LKR. Bring cash to pay for your tickets.

As tickets are not checked at every single monument, some people either knowingly skip out on paying the entrance fee, or are scammed by guides or tuk tuk drivers who claim that you do not have to buy a ticket. However, your ticket cost goes towards the conservation of the Anuradhapura ruins – I highly encourage you to pay the entrance fee at the ticket office . In fact, it seems that the Central Cultural Fund is clamping down on people who scam the system – my ticket was checked twice during my time at Anuradhapura by security guards.

In addition to the price of entry, you will need to have some small change to pay a small parking fee at each of the parking lots.

What to wear when visiting Anuradhapura

The city is located within Sri Lanka’s “dry zone”, and the weather in Anuradhapura is oppressive. When I visited in April the temperature reached upwards of 35 degrees Celsius (95 Fahrenheit) during the day. Opt for light, breathable clothing that covers your shoulders and knees as Anuradhapura contains religious shrines and monuments.

You will also need to take your shoes off to enter the Anuradhapura temples, so wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off . As the concrete and brick floor gets extremely hot, you will absolutely need to bring some socks unless you want blistered feet.

Also bring sunglasses, sunscreen, water, a hat and camera but be prepared to take your sunglasses and hat off to enter religious shrines. It should also be noted that taking photos with your back facing the Buddha images or statues is prohibited at all of the monuments, and drones are not allowed at Anuradhapura. More information on what not to do in Sri Lanka here .

What to see in Anuradhapura

There are a number of must-visit places in Anuradhapura – you should plan on spending no less than 3-4 hours in the ancient city. Here is a map to help you plan your Anuradhapura trip.

Read on for 10 places to visit in Anuradhapura!

1. Ruwanwelisaya (AKA Ruvanveli Seya)

Ruwanwelisaya is one of the most important temples in Anuradhapura and a major place of worship in Sri Lanka. The massive stupa is painted a brilliant white and was built by King Dutugemunu in approximately 140 BC. The shrines and temple are adorned with lotus and jasmine flowers by devout Buddhist worshippers. You will need to remove your shoes to enter.

2. Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi

The Sri Maha Bodhi is a sacred shrine built around the southern branch of the sacred Bodhi tree which was planted in the 3rd Century BC – today, the branch from the original tree is supported by golden scaffoldings.

It is the oldest historically documented tree in the world, and is one of the three symbols of Buddhist worship, the other two being the stupa and the image of Buddha. Buddhists have a strong belief that offerings made to this Bodhi tree will result in positive changes in their life.

When I visited, security guards looked over my outfit to make sure that I was decent, and there were also signs around the site asking that visitors wear white clothing. Though the shawl covering my shoulders was black, I was still allowed entry. I was also asked by another security guard not to take photos of the tree itself, though I was told by some other member of staff that it was fine – just something to be aware of. You should not take photos of people during prayer. Entry requires a separate ticket that isn’t covered by your Anuradhapura ticket.

3. Isurumuniya Viharaya

Isurumuniya Viharaya in Anuradhapura Sri Lanka

The Isurumuniya Rajamaha Viharaya was constructed by King Devanpiyatissa in the 3rd Century BC. During his reign, 500 children were ordained and the Isurumuniya was built as a monastic complex to house all of them. There are several carvings at the Isurumuniya, the most famous one being the Isurumuniya Lovers dating back to the 6th Century; the temple also features other stone carvings including the Elephant Pond depicting 4 elephants bathing, and The Royal Family. Admission to Isurumuniya Vihara costs 200 LKR.

4. Mirisawetiya Stupa

Mirisawetiya Stupa in Anuradhapura Sri Lanka

Built by King Dutugemunu in 161 BC, the Mirisawetiya Stupa is a quieter temple enshrining the king’s ruling sceptre. It is located just 2 minutes away from the Archaeological Museum and is off the typical tourist trail at Anuradhapura. For this reason, it tends to be more peaceful and receives less visitors than say, Ruwanwelisaya.

5. Jethavanaramaya (or Jetavanarama)

Built in 276-303 BC by King Mahasen, Jetavanarama is one of the tallest brick monuments in the world and contains sacred relics including gold folios containing sutras (scriptures) with Buddhist teachings, coins, ceramics and other artefacts. For this reason, it is one of the most important temples in Anuradhapura.

6. Abhayagiriya Stupa

Abhayagiriya Stupa in Anuradhapura Sri Lanka

The second largest of the stupas in Sri Lanka, the Abhayagiri Stupa is 235 feet tall and was built by King Vattagamini (AKA Walagamba or Valagamba) in 89-77 BC upon a footprint of the Buddha in the terrace. It is believed that the broader monastic complex (extending over 200 hectares) was once an important educational institution, which today features sculptures, statues and residential units.

Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle is rich in culture, heritage and history. Click here for 7 places you must visit in the Cultural Triangle in Sri Lanka!

7. Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)

Kuttam Pokuna Twin Ponds in Anuradhapura Sri Lanka

The Kuttam Pokuna in Abhayagiri is believed to have been built in the 8th or 9th Century for the water needs of the resident monks. The Twin Ponds feature stone steps leading into the water and is an example of Sri Lankan art and technology beyond its years. You are not allowed to step into the ponds but it is a beautiful piece of architecture not to be missed in Anuradhapura.

8. Samadhi Buddha Statue

Samadhi Buddha Statue in Anuradhapura Sri Lanka

The Samadhi Buddha Statue dating back to the 4th Century depicts the Buddha in deep seated meditation. The statue was sculpted into dolomite, and is in excellent condition – the Samadhi Buddha Statue is one of the most revered sites in Anuradhapura.

It is important to note that you are not allowed to take photos with your back facing the Buddha as it is considered extremely disrespectful – the landmark is patrolled by security guards. Head over here for more advice on what not to do in Sri Lanka.

9. The Moonstone

The Moonstone is a stone’s throw from the Abhayagiri Stupa dating back to the 7th or 8th Century. The Moonstone features realistic carvings that are thought to symbolize Samsara, the neverending cycle of birth and death, and breaking the cycle which leads to Nirvana, a state of enlightenment and freedom from suffering.

10. Thuparamaya

Thuparamaya is the first Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka dating back to early 200 BC under the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa.

It is one of the most spiritual places in Anuradhapura as it is said that the stupa was built to enshrine the right collarbone of Buddha.

Bonus: Anuradhapura scenic view point

Anuradhapura scenic viewpoint in Sri Lanka

This beautiful view point in Anuradhapura is located by a reservoir and offers unobstructed views of the ancient stupas. There is no entry fee and can easily be accessed by car or tuk tuk. Click here for the location.

Have more time in Anuradhapura? You might also want to venture over to Mihintale, 13 KM east of Anuradhapura. The temple complex contains ruins, stupas and a small museum. Mihintale is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites for Buddhists in Sri Lanka as it is believed to be where Buddhism first arrived in the country.

Safari jeep in Wilpattu National Park in Sri Lanka

Alternatively, Wilpattu National Park is approximately 1 hour away by car from Anuradhapura, and if you’re lucky you might spot a leopard or elusive sloth bear during a wildlife safari! Click here to read more about visiting Wilpattu.

Where to stay if you’re visiting Anuradhapura

Beyond the complex itself, there aren’t a ton of things to do in Anuradhapura unless you also plan to go on a safari in Wilpattu National Park . Instead, I recommend that you stay in Dambulla or Sigiriya where there are more hotel options, and plan a day trip to Anuradhapura instead.

Check out EKHO Sigiriya (formerly named Zinc Journey Sigiriya) – it offers beautifully decorated rooms, incredible service and is right next to Sigiriya Rock. The rooms are spacious and some even open up to the front garden – you can even see the rock from the hotel! The hotel staff can also arrange safaris to Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks to spot wild elephants. Click here to book your stay at EKHO Sigiriya!

Another option for nature lovers is Diyabubula , a 5 bedroom eco-luxury jungle hideaway that was built with sustainability at the forefront. Diyabubula is the perfect retreat if you want to be immersed in nature – it is shaded by dense canopy and is filled with the sounds of birds chirping, butterflies fluttering and monkeys jumping from tree to tree. Read my full hotel review here , or check out the various room types (bamboo grove, water villa, tree house) at their website!

Want to stay overnight in Anuradhapura and looking for more choices? Click here for more accommodation options around Anuradhapura!

Anuradhapura or Polonnaruwa?

Monastic residence in Anuradhapura Sri Lanka

I’m often asked whether it’s worth visiting both Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. From a logistics standpoint, Polonnaruwa is in a more convenient location as you can also visit Sigiriya, the Dambulla Caves and Minneriya or Kaudulla National Parks ; Anuradhapura is located a little out of the way in comparison. The landmarks and sites in Polonnaruwa are also located more closely together, which makes them easier to visit; in contrast, Anuradhapura is a sprawling ancient city and it requires more, let’s say, effort to get around.

Both Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura are rich in history, but Polonnaruwa, in my opinion, offers more signage with information about what you’re looking at. Most of the places in Anuradhapura do not offer much by way of information, and the majority of the signage is in Sinhalese. Perhaps owing to the age of the relics, the ruins of Polonnaruwa are in better condition than those in Anuradhapura. You can read more about Polonnaruwa by clicking here.

That being said, there is a certain electricity in the air at Anuradhapura that you won’t find in Polonnaruwa. It is a living heritage site, and there are thousands of Buddhist devotees who worship at the various temples in Anuradhapura – it offers a precious glimpse into the significance and importance of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

If you have more than 2 weeks in Sri Lanka , you might want to check out both of these ancient cities; however, if you are short on time then you might want to consider sticking to Polonnaruwa to maximize your time in the country and take advantage of its proximity to other popular tourist sites.

Have you visited Anuradhapura? What did you think of the ancient city?

You might also find these guides helpful:

Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle is rich in culture, heritage and history. Read on for the top places to visit in the Cultural Triangle in Sri Lanka
You might also want to head to see the ruins of Polonnaruwa – here is my guide to the top things to see in Polonnaruwa
Planning a trip to Sri Lanka? Read this article first for important things you should know before visiting Sri Lanka
Not sure where to start? Don’t miss my 2 week itinerary for the Pearl of the Indian Ocean or head on over here for my express 7 day itinerary for Sri Lanka
You can also see the full collection of Sri Lanka travel tips and destination guides here

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Water lilies and stupa in Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka with text overlay

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My husband and I have been looking for somewhere to travel to for our 10th anniversary (we were first considering Ireland), but then a travel ad for Sri Lanka came across my thread and I was totally intrigued!! After reading several of your articles I think it is safe to assume we will be heading to Sri Lanka!! We are so excited to visit and experience the culture and the people!! Thank you for all of your insight and informative articles!! I can’t wait to tell you how our trip went!!!

Hi Debra, I am so thrilled to hear that you found my articles helpful and will be headed to Sri Lanka! Have the best time and be sure to report back!

Safe travels and happy anniversary to you both,

Sri Lanka is great more than any other country. I’m proud to be a srilankan and a Buddhist. In Lanka we have Buddhism we had gained an opportunity to engage in the way our Lord buddha had taught.

Hi Nethumya, thanks for taking the time to read this. Sri Lanka is a stunning country and I can’t wait to be back in my second home!

I will be on a business trip to Sri Lanka next week and plan to spend couples days afterwards to visit the ancient relics. Thank you for the very helpful information!

Hi David, have an amazing time! If you only have a few days I actually recommend going to Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla Caves and Minneriya/Kaudulla National Park instead. More tips here: https://www.yogawinetravel.com/travel/sri-lanka/

Wow, this place is beautiful. It has a historical and spiritual feeling in it. Thank you for sharing.

Hi Johanes, thanks for taking the time to read this!

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Anuradhapura

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Renowned as the cultural heard of the country, Anuradhapura is Sri Lanka’s first major capital lined with age-old temples. Visit this city located in the north-central province of the country to explore the religious compounds and the remnants of the rich history of Ceylon.

Declared by UNESCO as a world heritage city, Anuradhapura is regarded as Sri Lanka’s first known kingdom and the capital of the island for many centuries. Being well known for its cultural and religious value, the city attracts many local and foreign visitors who love to explore the ancient history of Sri Lanka.

Among the many attractions in the city are the Dagabas, tanks, wildlife, art and architecture which are highly respected for their religious and cultural value. The civilization which developed through Anuradhapura is woven around the tanks, the dagabas and temples. These attractions vary from Sri Maha Bodhi which is a branch of the sacred Bo tree in which the Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, to the tallest Dagabas, temples and remains from palaces which are regarded by the Buddhists as the depiction of Buddhism.

For anyone planning a visit to Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura would easily be a must-visit site and also a place that would create a deep appreciation of an ancient way of life which entwined religion, art and architecture.

Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka – The Ultimate Travel Guide to History

Anuradhapura is Sri Lanka’s oldest royal city. It was founded in the 4th century BC and in 993, the Tamils plundered the city and the Sinhalese left for Polonnaruwa. For more than 500 years, they stayed in Anuradhapura. Thankfully, much remains of this ancient town. That is why it is also on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Hire a bicycle and visit the famous temples and buildings of the royal city, including the Jetavanarama Dagoba and Abhayagiri Monastery.

Are you planning a visit to Anuradhapura? And would you like to learn more about the special history and culture of this historic city in Sri Lanka? In this travel guide, I tell you more about its interesting history, read all about the best sights and discover the city’s best accommodation. A history-rich visit to Anuradhapura starts here…

This Travel Guide to Anuradhapura contains affiliate links. This means that if you make a booking through one of the links on this website, Travel4history gets a small compensation for it. This does not cost you anything extra by the way!

What would you like to know about Anuradhapura?

History Anuradhapura – The oldest capital of the Sinhalese Kingdom
Sightseeing – The 10 most important places
Accommodation – Where to stay?
Transportation – How to get there?

Irrigation lakes around Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Practical information

Best Time to Travel? The best time to visit this historic city is during January to March and May to September. During these months, there is the least rainfall. In terms of temperature, the months of January to March are the best. This then averages around 30 degrees. From May to September, it is between 30 and 35 degrees. October and November are the monsoon months and the most rain falls.

How many days? Hire a bicycle and explore the beautiful temples of Anuradhapura. In one day, you can have seen all the highlights of this ancient city. But Anuradhapura is also an ideal base to visit the town of Mihintale. This is where Buddhism really took off in Sri Lanka. So set aside 2 days to visit these historic sites in Sri Lanka.

History Anuradhapura – The oldest capital of the Sinhala Kingdom

Pandukabhaya was the first king of the Sinhalese Kingdom in 377 BC. He established the capital in Anuradhapura and ruled the entire country from there, although there were also small independent states on the island. He named the capital after a minister who had founded the village under his father’s leadership, Anurapura . Anuradhapura would be the center of politics, religion, economics and culture for over 1400 years.

Buddhism made its appearance in the 3rd century BC. This literally began in the small town of Mihintale (day trip?). Also, in the 3rd century BC, a shoot of the Tree of Enlightenment came to the city. This tree can still be admired in Anuradhapura and is therefore an important sacred site for Buddhists. Also, a piece of Buddha’s tooth, which can now be admired in Kandy came to the city.

The main source of livelihood during the Kingdom of Anuradhapura was agriculture. Several kings were particularly popular, having built large irrigation canals and lakes. On a tour of the old city, you will come across these lakes by themselves.

In total, more than 110 kings ruled from Anuradhapura. Only King Kassapa chose to rule from Sigiriya. For centuries the kingdom suffered from attacks by the Tamils and Cholas from South India. It resulted in the Cholas gaining supremacy on the island and Anuradhapura was defeated in 993. The city fell into disrepair and disappeared into the jungle until it was only rediscovered in the 19th century.

Sightseeing – Practical information about Anuradhapura

Before you start, it’s important to choose whether you’re going to ride a bike or arrange for a guided tuk-tuk . If you go with a guide he can tell you everything about the history of the city (if it’s a good guide of course). With the bike, you can do the whole day and view the temples and surroundings at your leisure.

A ticket to visit the old city costs about $25. You can buy these tickets at the Archaeological Museum and Jetavana Museum. Control takes place at various places in the park.

Below are 10 places you absolutely must have seen with a short historical description attached. The order is based on my own route. I started at the Jetavana Museum and did a counter-clockwise tour on my bicycle. So first the northern part and then the southern ruins.

1. Jetavanarama dagoba

The Jetavanarama dagoba is one of the largest stupas in Sri Lanka. The founder of this shrine was King Mahasen, who lived from 277 to 304 AD. He was very popular among the people because he had many water cisterns built. But King Mahasen was also a follower of Mahayana Buddhism, while Theravada Buddhism was the official religion of the country. The king forced the monks to accept Mahayana Buddhism, and when they refused, Mahasen had some temples of Theravada Buddhism destroyed. The monks left for the south and a minister rebelled against the king’s plans. Eventually, it ended in a hiss and the king decided to rebuild some Theravada temples.

The stupa was once 122 meters high, making it one of the largest structures in ancient history. After the city of Anuradhapura fell into disrepair and the dagoba was restored again, it now has a height of 71 meters.

2. The two basins that look very similar and are still in good condition

The impressive thing about the Kuttam Pokuna is that these two basins still look fine. They are also called the twins, despite the fact that the northern pool is 40 meters long and the southern one is 28 meters. However, historians believe that the pools were built in different time periods, probably between the 6th and 8th centuries AD. It is believed that the monks of the nearby Abhayagiri Monastery used the basins for their ritual baths. The basins have been partially restored but were still left in a good condition.

3. A Buddha who is meditating

Those heading west from Kuttam Pokuna pass this beautiful statue of the Samadhi Buddha . This statue probably dates from the 4th century AD and depicts a Buddha in meditative posture, also known as Samadhi. This is one of the most common postures in which you will see a Buddha statue. When the statue was found in the 19th century it was partially damaged. For example, at that time it no longer had a nose. Fortunately, you don’t notice this anymore. Left and right, what does it portray? If you go further to the west, you will see more Buddha statues.

Travel guide of History to Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka

4. The Abhayagiri dagobe, built in the first century BC

The Abhayagiri monastery was founded by King Valagamba in his second term of office between 89 and 77 BC. For centuries, this monastery was the most important religious center in the country. A characteristic feature is the now 70-meter Abhayagiri Dagoba, built of brick. Originally it was 115 meters high, but when the structure lost its point it was only 70 meters high. The Kuttam Pokuna and the Samadhi Buddha were part of this monastery that attracted monks from all over the world in the centuries following its completion.

5. The lunar tavern with the cycle of death and rebirth

Little is left of Mahasena’s palace, but the beautiful Sandakada Pahana still sits beautifully. The Dutch meaning is a moonstone and used to be laid at the entrance to a building or at a Buddhist temple in countries like Myanmar, Sri Lanka and India. It is a great example of Signalese architecture. The Sandakada Pahana consists of a crescent moon and, according to historians in Buddhism, indicates the cycle of death and rebirth without beginning and seemingly without end.

6. Thuraparama dagoba, the oldest stupa in Sri Lanka

The Thuraparama dagoba is the oldest stupa you will encounter in Sri Lanka. It was commissioned by King Tissa in the third century BC, just after Buddhism had made its appearance on the island. It was also the place where a collarbone of Buddha was kept. Over the centuries, the stupa has fallen into disrepair several times and been destroyed by attacks by the Tamils from South India, among others.

7. The Ruwanwelisiya dagoba and its elephants

The Ruwanwelisiya dagoba is a striking sight. And that’s mainly about the row of elephants that will catch everyone’s eye upon arrival. The stupa was built in 161 BC by King Dutugamunu and is 103 meters high. The elephant heads are a reference to how the king and his army defeated the Tamils: sitting on an elephant. At the stupa here, you will also encounter a statue of the king on an elephant.

8. Archaeological Museum

In total you will find in the ancient ruined city of Anuradhapura 4 museums where you can visit. The main museum is the Archaeological Museum . Of course, here you will find many treasures from the time of the kingdom in Anuradhapura, but also Polonnaruwa.

Sri Maha Bodhi Tri, the Tree of Enlightenment

9. The Tree of Enlightenment, where Buddha once meditated

For monks, this is the most important place in Anuradhapura the fig tree Sri Maha Bodhi Tri . According to tradition, this is part of the tree where Buddha meditated. This tree was brought to Anuradhapura in the third century BC by the daughter of King Asoka, a king from South India. King Tissa of the kingdom of Anuradhapura had the tree planted and since then Buddhists from all over the world come to this place to behold the tree.

10. The colorful reclining Buddha in the rock temple Isurumuniya

To end the day, you can view the rock temple Isurumuniya in the south of the old city. This was built in the 3rd century BC and is part of a monastic complex. Here you can admire some beautiful drawings and engravings and visit the colorful reclining Buddha. In front of the rock temple, you will find a basin, where elephants used to bathe. In addition, it is also possible to climb the rock and enjoy the view of Anuradhapura.

Accommodation – Where to stay in Anuradhapura?

Anuradhapura can be divided into 3 areas. You have the area of the old ruins, a new town and an old town. The old town is the northern part of the city where the main railway station is located. It is also closer to the ruins than the new town. But the new town is the biggest and nicest part of the city where you can find most hotels and restaurants. There are also a number of hotels and guesthouses between the old ruins where you can stay.

Looking for accommodation in Anuradhapura? Check here for the possibilities

Transportation – How to get to Anuradhapura?

Anuradhapura is easily reached by train from Colombo. It takes about 5 hours. The main station is in the old town of Anuradhapura. From there you can take a tuk-tuk to the center and the new part of town. Another way to get from Colombo to Anuradhapura is by bus. This takes about 3 to 4 hours and the buses run more often than the train.

Next destination? Have you seen Anuradhapura and do you want to continue your journey through this beautiful country? From here you can take the train or bus north for Jaffna. Or then travel south for the golden temple of Dambulla , Sigiriya Rock , or towards Negombo .

Do you have more tips, ideas, or comments about Anuradhapura? If so, feel free to leave a comment below.

Historian and Backpacker/World Traveler. In Travel4history I write about special destinations from a historical point of view. How else can you get to know and understand the world better than by learning about its history....

Best Time To Visit Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

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Although the weather in Anuradhapura remains the same throughout the year, the best time to visit Anuradhapura has been recorded to be April and September. During these months, the city receives less rainfall and it is a dry season which makes it perfect for sightseeing. So, if you want to explore this place without any hassle then you know when to plan your trip.

10 Best Places To Visit In Anuradhapura

This list of the top places in Anuradhapura will help you plan a better holiday. So, do not miss out on any of the listings if you want to have fun as well as know more about this city.

Thanthirimale
Padeniya Raja Maha Viharaya
Wilpattu National Park
Abhayagiri Dagoba
Sri Maha Bodhi
Ruwanwelisaya
Jetavanaramaya
Archaeological Museum
Lovamahapaya

1. Tissa Wewa

Nature lovers and especially those willing to spend some time in the parks in the company of lovely animals can’t miss Tissa Wewa near Kataragama in Sri Lanka. Located near Anuradhapura, this popular artificial lake is worth visiting. The reservoir is a great spot to come close to nature. Built in the 3rd century by Devanampiya Tissa, the primary aim of Tissa Wewa was to ease the supply of water in the nearby region. Current Tissa Wewa embankment boasts of 3.2-kilometer length and 7.6-meter height. The royal gardens in Tissa get water supplied from this reservoir itself. Visitors witness the presence of several rare birds at this place while they spend time here.

Location: Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka Best known for: Rare birds and wildlife Distance from Colombo: 200 km Things to do: Birdwatching, wildlife spotting

Read More: 7 Places To Visit In Kataragama In 2022: To Know The Lankan Town Culture

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2. Thanthirimale

One of the best places to visit in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, the old village of Thanthirimale or the Tantirimale is sought after by the tourists, especially Buddhists who are seeking to explore the ancient Buddhist temples.

Its location near the rocks makes this place sought after amongst the tourists. Besides the old village, Thanthirimale Stupa and Sri Maha Bodhi plant to Bo Tree et al are great places for exploration as a tourist and a devoted Buddhist. So, how about trying one of the most unique places to visit in Anuradhapura.

Location: Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka Best known for: Buddhist architecture Distance from Colombo: 237 km Things to do: Pray, visit the Bodhi tree

Read More: 10 Places To Visit In Mannar That Are Microcosms Of Sri Lanka In 2022

3. Padeniya Raja Maha Viharaya

This Viharaya is located in the North Western Province of Sri Lanka. There are many fascinating antiques in this place. Kurunegala city is known to be the birthplace of many interesting legends in the world. The Buddhist temple has been preserved and maintained very well. Due to this reason, there are more and more local as well as foreign travelers visiting this Viharaya. It was the royal capital of Sri Lanka in ancient times. The temple was the home of a legendary giant, Therapuththabhaya who later on became a Buddhist monk. He was among the 10 giants of the army of Great King Dutugemunu.

Location: Anuradhapura-Padeniya Highway, Galgamuwa, Sri Lanka Best known for: History and antiques Distance from Colombo: 125 km Things to do: Witness the antiques, explore the temple

Read More : 8 Best Places To Visit In Kurunegala To Witness The Breathtaking Landscapes Around The City

4. Wilpattu National Park

Wilpattu National Park is the largest park, located in the Northwest coast of Sri Lanka. What makes this park unique is the existence of “Willus” – natural lakes that have different degrees of salinity. The park was closed for 15 years, so that the wildlife had space and time to recover to its former abundance, and was reopened in 2003. Now that it has been opened again, make sure that you explore it as it is one of the best places to visit in Anuradhapura.

Location: Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka Best known for: Sloth bears Area covered: 1, 317 sq kms Distance from Colombo: 169 km Things to do: Travers the ancient city of Anuradhapura, especially the the 2,000 year old sacred Bodhi tree

5. Abhayagiri Dagoba

Leaving Anuradhapura without exploring any dagobas is like a sin that you might not want to commit. This colossal dagoba can be dated back to the 1st century BC. The original height of Abhayagiri Dagoba was 100 meters owing to which it was one of the greatest structures in the world then. After reconstruction and preservation of this place, the height has been restored to 75 meters. The name of this place literally translates into the ‘Fearless Hill’ or ‘Hill of Protection’. You will find a slab with Buddha’s footprint and some moonstones.

Location: Watawandana Rd, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka Best known for: Massive structure and Buddha’s footprints Distance from Colombo: 203.7 km Things to do: Find peace!

Read More: 10 National Parks in Sri Lanka That Bring You Face-To-Face With The Incredible Nature In 2022

6. Sri Maha Bodhi

Image Source Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is among the most ancient trees in Sri Lanka that even today are thriving in the Mahamewna Gardens of Anuradhapura. This special tree is said to have grown out of a cutting that was brought here from Bodh Gaya in India. It is believed that it has been brought from the very same place where Gautama Buddha had attained enlightenment, thus making it one of the most popular places to visit at Anuradhapura for pilgrims and spiritual souls. It was cared for by the ancient kings and queens of Sri Lanka, as well as many Buddhist leaders. Flourishing even in the harshest of conditions, this tree is said to have such tranquil beauty that it instills a sense of calm and peace in visitors.

Location: Thuparama Dagoba, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka Best known for: Incredibly long life and peaceful aura Distance from Colombo: 200 km Things to do: Spend a day amidst the purest form of nature!

7. Ruwanwelisaya

Image Source Ruwanwelisaya Stupa is among the largest stupas (also called dagobas) in Sri Lanka and one of the most prominent places to visit in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Built long ago by King Dutugamunu, this beautiful stupa is nestled right in the heart of the heritage city of Anuradhapura. Also called Maha Stupa, this adorned structure is over 338 feet tall and has large paved courts as well as platforms that all add a unique architectural touch to this magnificent structure. Recent renovations have earned this shrine the privilege of being one of the most revered sanctums of worship in Anuradhapura.

Location: Abhayawewa Rd, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka Best known for: Overwhelming structure and architecture Distance from Colombo: 200.6 km Things to do: Admire the structure, seek blessings

8. Jetavanaramaya

Image Source The monastery of Jetavanaramaya is one of the largest monasteries in Anuradhapura. In fact, it was once the third-tallest structure in the whole world. The legend surrounding this ancient sanctum is that it’s the same place where Buddha’s sash or belt was tied and preserved for a long time, and that is what fascinates worshippers and history geeks from around the world and brings them here in large numbers every year. Luring in travelers with its enchanting historical significance, Jetavanaramaya still remains one of the largest holy structures in the world and is home to about 10,000 monks.

Location: Anuradhapura, North Central Province, Sri Lanka Best known for: It’s massive height Distance from Colombo: 202.2 km Things to do: Learn about Buddhist culture

9. Archaeological Museum

Archaeological Museum anuradhapura sri lanka

Image Source The Archaeological Museum Anuradhapura holds tremendous historical significance owing to the range of ancient artifacts, intricate carvings, and age-old domestic items extracted after excavations in Anuradhapura and other parts of Sri Lanka it has on display. Established in 1947, this museum is one of the best places to visit in Anuradhapura for history geeks and those who love the culture and heritage of Sri Lanka. Some of the items on display here are as old as the pre-Christian era when Sri Lanka was home to the Sinhalese civilization. Other items to see here are Buddha statues, inscriptions, paintings, drawings, coins, and Lankan antiques.

Location: Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka Best known for: Timeless antiques and artifacts Distance from Colombo: 200 km Things to do: Learn about Sri Lanka’s history and culture, see ancient artifacts

10. Lovamahapaya

Image Source Also called the Brazen Palace, Lovamahapaya is almost 2000 years old palace and was built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century B.C. The most striking feature of this palace is its bronze tiles that add a dashing touch to the roof. The other prominent and attractive features of this palace include the 1600 stone columns that are as tall as 150 feet and support 9 stories with about 1000 rooms. It was initially used as a residence for Buddhist monks who would use it on the days of the “Poya” festival. And though it now lies in ruins, this massive palace is still a testament of a bygone age that speaks volumes about its rich culture and heritage.

Location: End of Trincomalee Rd, Anuradhapura 50000, Sri Lanka Best known for: Bronze tiled roof Distance from Colombo: 199.5 km Things to do: Admire the architecture

Rushing everyday to the office and slouching over your laptop, you must be wondering what are you doing in your life. What is all this worth for? Why am I even earning? If these questions hover in your mind everyday then these are signs of exhaustion. If you are burnt out with daily work, then this is a sign that you need a break. A break from the routine, work, responsibilities, target, and all the other things that are stressing you out. It is time to take out your bucket list and travel to new places. If Sri Lanka has been lingering in your itinerary for too long now, then pick that destination and get ready to explore the top places to visit in Anuradhapura. To get a hassle-free trip then plan your getaway to Sri Lanka with TravelTriangle and get a personalized itinerary according to your budget.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Anuradhapura

What is Anuradhapura famous for?

Anuradhapura is famous for being the ancient capital of Sri Lanka. This place is also famous for having the ruins that are preserved really well of the Sinhala civilization. So, this place has a lot of historical significance. And not only that, this place also has the famous Maha Bodhiya that increases its spiritual significance as well.

What are the best places to visit in Anuradhapura?

The best places to visit in Anuradhapura are Sri Maha Bodhiya, Sri Maha Bodhiya, Lovamahapaya, Abhayagiri Stupa, Twin Ponds, Ruwanweli Stupa, Aukana Buddha Statue, Thuparamaya, Elephant Pond, Isurumuniya, Mihintale.

Why is Sri Maha Bodhiya famous?

Sri Maha Bodhiya is one of the best attractions in Anuradhapura. It is believed that this tree was planted in the 249 BC and was brought by the daughter of Asoka and it is the oldest surviving tree in the world.

What are the best things to do in Anuradhapura?

Tourists can enjoy a lot of things in Anuradhapura such as get enlightened about Buddhism, visit the temples, the history enthusiasts can rejoice at the archeological sites. There are also some great options for shopping in Anuradhapura such as shopping for souvenirs.

What is the best time to visit Anuradhapura?

The best time to visit Anuradhapura is from April to October. This is the time when the weather is pleasant and you would be able to make the most of your trip.

How can I go to Anuradhapura via air?

You can easily visit Anuradhapura by air as you reach the Colombo airport which is the nearest airport to Anuradhapura and is 183 km away. The tourists can easily get buses/ cabs to reach from there to Anuradhapura.

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Anuradhapura

1.1 History
2.1 By plane
2.3 By train
2.4 By road
3 Get around
11 Stay safe
12 Stay healthy

Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage listed city in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka.

Understand [ edit ]

The historic zone, northwest of the town, consists of a good variety of ruins, spread over a large area (like a mini Siem Reap ) along with a number of dagobas that are still important pilgrimage sites. The majority of visitors are white-clad Sri Lankan pilgrims, rather than foreign tour groups, hence a less touristy and less harassing atmosphere than at Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa.

History [ edit ]

Anuradhapura is the most ancient city of Sri Lanka . It is where Buddhism began in the country as well as where the first kingdom was located. It is known for its ancient features such as ruins of palaces and temples. It is also home to the eight sacred places of Sri Lanka.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

FitsAir - Charter flights from Colombo-Ratmalana

By bus [ edit ]

Buses travel along A9 highway, you can find buses from/to Colombo in Bastian Mawatha Terminal in Fort (five hours, every half hour, until 08:30) for a non-air-conditioned public bus, costs around Rs. 350, Kandy (three hours, every hour two or more, until 18:30), Dambulla (hourly, until 18:30), Trincomalee (3½ hours, morning) and other destinations from the bus station in the Anuradhapura New Town.

By train [ edit ]

There are also two train stations in and around Anuradhapura, which can take you to/from Colombo (4½ hours, four each day), a first class seat cost around Rs 500. To Kandy (change at Polgahawela). Train service also runs to Anuradhapura from Matara (8½ hours, early morning), Galle (7 hours, morning). Two stations being in and near Anuradhapura.

As of April 2024, there are no trains running between Colombo and Anuradhapura until July. However, bus services are plenty with slower non-AC buses going from Central Bus Station (Find routes 4, 15, 57) and slightly quicker AC/Luxury/Private buses, going from Bastian Mawatha, terminal 3.

By road [ edit ]

It is possible to get to Anuradhapura on the A9 highway from Kandy 166 km away. The drive from Colombo takes approximately 4 hours.

Get around [ edit ]

Tuk tuks and buses are abundant. The New Town is relatively small, and can be walked from one end to another in half an hour. The Old Town (archaeological site) is quite large, and you can get around by tuk tuk.

See [ edit ]

The ancient city of Anuradhapura was first settled ca. 900 BC, and served off and on as the capital of the Sinhalese Kingdom until ca. 1100 AD, when the capital moved further south. The city was quite large in its heyday, and so there is a lot of archaeology to see.

A USD25 ticket covers admission to all the sites of Anuradhapura itself (with a few exceptions like Isurumuniya), and admission is included in the Cultural Triangle ticket (USD50). South Asian nationals receive substantial discounts of USD15 on entrance fees, Therefore, if you have a South Asian passport, make sure to carry it with you on your visits. Tickets can be purchased at the Archaeology Museum or at the entrance. There is not one place which would check the tickets, rather there are random controls on the road when traveling between the sites. Many sites can be also accesed for free.

Most tuk-tuk drivers can get you in without paying the ticket but it is not recommended. Some of them offer to take you in and tour you around for a price lesser than the price of the ticket. However this tour will probably be a scam and include mostly the free sites (not the north side, ie. museums, Abhaygiri Vihara) so always check before what will be included. Decide for yourself between supporting your budget and missing important sites or supporting government and (hopefully) maintenance of historical monuments. In case you want to pay for the ticket, check that the ticket is actually bought. Beware of friendly tuk tuk drivers in the bus stand.

This old town' is quite large, so get a tuk-tuk if you want to cover all the sights in one day (should be 3500-4500 per tour in 2023). Alternatively, some hotels in Anuradhapura can provide you with a bicycle (1000 per day in 2023) or motorcycle (2000 per day in 2023), allowing you to roam around on your own. The old town is open for visiting until 17:00.

8.344796 80.39505 1 Bodhi Tree Temple ( The Sri Maha Bodhiya ). The second most sacred place in Sri Lanka, after the Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth) in Kandy and also part of the eight sacred places in Sri Lanka. The Bodhi Tree is allegedly a cutting from the original Bodhi tree under which the Buddha gained enlightenment, and has been continuously guarded for over 2,000 years, making it the oldest historically authenticated tree in the world. The temple complex is surrounded by walls, and is quite busy with monks and worshipers. Due to terrorist activities in the 1980s, it is not possible to drive up to the temple, and one must go through a metal detector before entering the complex. Bags will be checked. Shoes can be left near the entrance. It is polite to leave a tip. ( updated Jan 2018 )
8.35 80.396389 2 Ruwanwelisaya . The oldest and most voluminous stupa at Anuradhapura, has been fully restored, painted white, and is a centre of worship. Walk from the Sri Maha Bodhiya, past the Brazen Palace (an ancient palace that once supported a bronze roof) to the stupa. There are several image houses at the stupa, as well as four smaller stupas in the four corners of the complex. Please be respectful of the worshippers at the site. This is also one of the eight sacred places of Sri Lanka. ( updated May 2019 )
8.37 80.395 3 Abhayagiri Vihāra ( අභයගිරි දාගැබ, அபயகிரி விகாரை ), Watawandana Rd . A monastery site of Theravada Buddhism
Archaeolgy Museum , Thuparama Mawatha ( centre ). Showcases many of the artifacts found at the site, from jewellery and gems to coins and pottery. The museum is more focused on religious and elite objects, although some commoner artifacts are also shown.
The Folk Museum : Showcases the archaeology of Anuradhapura from a more folk perspective.
8.352016 80.404923 4 Jetavana or Jetavanaramaya ( ජේතවනාරාමය ), B341 Watawandana Road ( Centre ). Large stupa (Buddhist worship structure. Also known as "Dagoba"), undergoing restoration work. Part of the Jetavana Monastery. At ~120 m (400 ft) tall, this was the third tallest structure in the ancient world (after the Great Pyramids at Giza), and the largest in Sri Lanka. It is also one of the eight sacred places of Sri Lanka ( updated May 2019 )
The Citadel : This was the secular centre of the city. The Gedige and other palaces can be found here, as well as the old city walls.
The Moonstone : Moonstones, to be found throughout Anuradhapura, were at the entrances to monasteries, and represented the movement from the secular to the sacred worlds, by following the path to enlightenment, as carved into the moonstone. This moonstone is of particular note, for its size and impressive decoration.
The Western Monasteries : These monasteries represent a different take on worshiping the Buddha than can be found in the main part of the ancient city. Whereas many monasteries were opulent and richly adorned, the Western Monasteries sought a more orthodox existence, without any sort of decoration within the monastery, save for urinal stones. Urinal stones were often very richly adorned, and the symbolism here need not be explicitly stated.
8.346111 80.3975 5 Lovamahapaya . The 1,600 stone pillars that we see today are what are left of an enormous building. Also called the Brazen Palace, this nine-storey monastery was once home to a thousand monks, whose duties included tending the sacred Bo tree, which grew right next to the building. King Dutugemunu (the palace founder) saw to it that the roof of Lovamahapaya was covered in bronze tiles, and that its walls were decorated with silver and precious stones.
Isurumuniya Buddhist temple (Isirumuni Raja Maha Viharaya) situated near to the Tissa Wewa (Tisa Tank). There are four carvings of special interest in this Vihara. They are the Isurumuniya Lovers, Elephant Pond and The Royal Family. Extra fee 500LKR.

Do [ edit ]

Apart from seeing the archaeology of the ancient city, it is possible to explore the area, and to spend time in the Anuradhapura New Town . There are many shops in the New Town, as well as a market, and the interested visitor may wish to patronize some of these.

There are guided city tours offered by bicycle or on foot through AirBnB Experiences

Buy [ edit ]

Souvenir vendors are abundant at the popular sites within the Anuradhapura old town, as well as at Mihintale. You can go to them to purchase postcards, replica artifacts, carved wooden figurines, earrings, masks and any number of other items. Vendors will also often follow you around, and will sometimes not leave you alone when you say that you are not interested. Some vendors attempt to sell authentic ancient artifacts. It is illegal to remove items older than 100 years old from the country, and you may face up to three years in Sri Lankan prisons if you are caught attempting to do so. Besides this, the looting of archaeological artifacts can lead to the destruction of archaeological sites, the loss of important artifacts, and ultimately, the loss of valuable archaeological knowledge. Please do not support looting by purchasing authentic artifacts. The vendor should confirm that they are replicas, and they should be priced as such.

There are numerous shops in the Anuradhapura New Town. Apart from food markets, there are photo shops, sari shops, and several others. Essentials can be purchased from Cargills Food City or at one of several pharmacies. Zam Zams has a wide assortment of products if you forgot to bring anything.

Eat [ edit ]

There are many hotels (Sri Lankan English for a small restaurant) in the Anuradhapura New Town, which offer an authentic Sri Lankan meal, at quite a good price. Smaller boutiques offer quick eats, such as pastries and rolls, which are also quite good and cheap. Stores and small markets in the New Town and surrounding area often carry snack food such as chips, chocolate bars and nuts, as well as cold drinks. Some also have fresh baking, and many markets sell fresh fruit. Lunch packets, generally sold between 11:00 and 14:00 are excellent for lunch. Unless you are a fan of spices, ask the staff not to put too many chiles, as authentic Sri Lankan food is very spicy.

The Nuwara Wewa Guesthouse has quite nice, though somewhat westernised meals. Non-guests can eat at the restaurant. There are numerous other similar guest houses, and the Tissa Wewa guesthouse gets good reviews.Also try at Hotel Shalini for tasty rice & curry.

Cargills Food City is a small grocery store which carries many Western products, as well as fresh produce and meat. You can get all the essentials for preparing your own meals here.

Drink [ edit ]

The drinking of alcohol in public is not an acceptable practice in Sri Lanka. There are not many bars, and they tend to be somewhat secluded. Westernised guesthouses have a full bar, and Lion and Carlsberg are the most common beers. There are two alcohol shops in the Anuradhapura New Town, where you can purchase arrack, a spirit made from coconut which is popular throughout Sri Lanka, as well as rum, whisky, beer, wine, etc.

Coca-Cola, Pepsi Cola, and Elephant soft drinks are sold at small shops everywhere, and water, juice, and other drinks can also be purchased at these. Do not drink tap water.

Sleep [ edit ]

There are numerous guest houses Anuradhapura new town, and many more budget accommodations. Prices at hostels start from Rs 1,500 to 2,000 per person for a night.

If you don't have and idea of where you'll be staying, any tuk-tuk driver will be happy to offer you rooms that he or his brother is renting, usually offering very basic comfort at a reasonable, negotiable price. Usually he'll take you to see the room for free before committing to rent one.

The Nuwara Wewa Guest House is quite nice, with a pool and excellent views of the Nuwara Wewa, which is a large irrigation tank and resembles a lake. There is also an on-site restaurant, and the rates are reasonable.
Miridiya Lake Resort ( Galway Miridiya Lodge ), Wasaladantha Mawatha , ☏ +94 25-2223262 . It is near Nuwara Wewa, and is very close to ancient sites and outdoor wonders. 39 standard and deluxe rooms are available, with modern facilities. Facilities include an in-house restaurant, bar, swimming pool, and meditation facility. Excursions to tourist sites can be arranged.
Milano Tourist Rest , 596/40, stage 01 , ☏ +94 25-2222364 . Check-out: 12:00 . In the heart of the town, surrounded by a well maintained garden. It has 16 clean spacious rooms with a/c, hot water, satellite t/v and telephone facilities. Internet/email facilities are free of charge. USD25 .
8.33161 80.41616 1 Hotel Shalini ( Shalini Tourist Rest ), 41/388, Harischandra Mawatha ( in front of stage 1 water tower; old bus station (0.5 km); railway station (1 km); new bus/new railway station (2 km); Ancient City ((2 km) ), ☏ +94 25 2222425 , +94 25 2224305 , [email protected] . Check-in: 10:00 , check-out: 12:00 . The terrace restaurant which is in a unique British colonial-style building serves authentic and delicious Sri Lankan rice & curry, high quality Western as well as Chinese food. Price range: Rs 350 - 850. Opening hours: 06:00-11:00, 13:00-15:00, 18:00-23:30. USD10-40 . ( updated Oct 2015 )

Respect [ edit ]

It is respectful, and necessary, to remove shoes and hats when walking around sites of Buddhist veneration. It is also polite to circumambulate to the right; that is, walk to the left around the object so that your right hand, considered to be the clean hand, is constantly facing the object. Women's shoulders should also be covered when exploring Buddhist sites, and respectful clothing should be worn. One is also not supposed to turn their back towards a representation of the Buddha.

It is generally fine to take pictures, but be careful not to take any pictures of people in front of images of the Buddha.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Beware of the monkeys. Monkeys, particularly macaques (small, red-faced monkeys) can get quite aggressive, and have been known to steal unattended personal belongs.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Sri Lanka was declared a malaria-free zone by the WHO in 2016 but, there remains a risk of dengue fever locally.

Also, be careful not to become a snakebite victim. Avoid high brush without proper clothing, and don't stick your hand into dark or dim holes (including stone and masonry).

Connect [ edit ]

There are many internet cafes in the Anuradhapura New Town. Anuradhapura New Town and suburbs are covered by most broadband internet service providers in Sri Lanka. Therefore reliable, low cost, high speed internet connections are available in many places.

There are numerous places from which to place an international phone call . Look for the "IDD" sign. There is a post office in Anuradhapura, as well.

However, pre-paid SIM cards are almost free and charges are dirt cheap in Sri Lanka. It provides you instant access to IDD calls and high speed internet.

Go next [ edit ]

Nearby to Anuradhapura:

Tissawewa : this large artificial water reservoir, was originally constructed in ancient times, but fell into disuse. It was rebuilt for irrigation purposes in the nineteenth century.
Mihintale : Located approximately 10 km (6.25 miles) to the east of Anuradhapura, Mihintale is a large rock outcrop, approximately 305 m (1000 ft.) high. Get there by bus in ~30 minutes and be careful not to miss the last bus back to Anuradhapura. When arrived to Mihintale ask for directions to reach the starting point of the climb by foot, as it's close to where the bus will leave you. There are two stupas, a rock shelter with inscriptions, a temple with a large Buddha image, and an ancient hospital. There is an excellent view of the surrounding area from the top (Rs 500 admission), and it is possible to see the three largest stupas of Anuradhapura emerging from the forest to the west. The general landscape is quite flat, with large rock outcrops and small mountains dotting the landscape. The parking lot is at the bottom of the mountain, and a large number of stairs must be climbed to reach the top, where the archaeological sites are located. Shoes and hats must be left at the top. You will be offered guidance at (starting) prices of Rs 700.
Ritigala : It is about 40 km (25 mi) to the southeast of Anuradhapura, on the Anuradhapura to Habarana Road. Ritigala is a small mountain approximately 765 m (2,514 ft) in height. The top of the mountain is a strict nature reserve, due to the unique climate associated with the gain in altitude. However, the mountain was the site of a series of orthodox forest ministries. There is a parking lot at the base of the mountain, and the visitor can walk up the Meditational Pathways to the various levels and Meditational Platforms. The walk is quite beautiful through a unique, forested environment. The visitor is awarded several nice views, especially from when the pathways cross a ravine. This is an excellent site to visit off the beaten path, as it is much quieter and less visited than Anuradhapura. It is quite likely that you will be the only foreigners visiting the site, should you choose to do so. However, don't expect the opulence seen at Anuradhapura. The orthodox monks did not believe in accumulating material wealth, but the forest environment is a perfect setting for the rock structures and long, winding paths.

There are numerous other small towns and villages in the area around Anuradhapura, and it is possible to come across modern-day monasteries and temples, as well. It is worth exploring the area, as there are some beautiful and picturesque areas around Anuradhapura.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites
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Southwest to exit 4 airports and limit hiring following profit loss, Boeing plane delays

Southwest Airlines said it will limit hiring and suspend operations at four airports in the U.S. and Mexico following a loss of profits and delays getting planes from Boeing .

In a release posted after the company's earnings call Thursday, the Dallas, Texas-based budget airline reported a net loss of $231 million in the first quarter of 2024. Southwest President and CEO Bob Jordan called those losses "disappointing," and said the airline is adjusting to "slower than planned growth for this year and next."

In an interview with CNBC ahead of the earnings call Thursday, Jordan said the company was weighing options for cabin reconfiguration to address its recent revenue shortfall.

“We’re looking into new initiatives, things like the way we seat and board our aircraft,” Jordan told the network.

The airline said it now expects to end this year with approximately 2,000 fewer employees than 2023 through cost control initiatives, including limiting hiring and offering voluntary time off programs, not through furloughs or layoffs.

And with aircraft delivery delays from Boeing that could continue into 2025, Southwest said it is also planning to mitigate any operational and financial impacts while keeping reliable flight schedules for customers.

'Roughest landing': Watch video of plane bouncing off runway as it attempts to land at LAX

What airports is Southwest leaving?

After reporting financial losses in the first quarter of 2024, Southwest said it is closing operations at four airports, three in the U.S. and one in Mexico, the first time the airline has exited an airport since 2019.

Bellingham International Airport in Bellingham, Washington
George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, Texas
Syracuse Hancock International Airport in Syracuse, New York
Cozumel International Airport in Mexico

Southwest also announced plans to cut about half its flights out of the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and one third from the Chicago O'Hare International Airport.

Although Southwest is pulling out of George Bush Intercontinental Airport, the company will maintain operations out of the William P. Hobby Airport in Houston.

Contributing: Zach Wichter, USA TODAY.

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Visit Anuradhapura on a trip to Sri Lanka
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13 Amazing Places To Visit In Anuradhapura (Sri Lanka)
13 Amazing Places To Visit In Anuradhapura (Sri Lanka)
The sacred city of Anuradhapura
15 Best Places to Visit in Anuradhapura, Things to Do & Sightseeing (2022)

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Anuradhapura
Buddha's Enlightenment. Samadhi refers to Buddha's enlightenment which is depicted by the statue with the sitting position of meditation. The statue is located in the Mahamevnawa Park in between the Twin Ponds and Thuparamaya Temple. It is inclusive in the entrance fee for Anuradhapura Ancient Site at USD25 or LKR4,550.
The Ultimate Travel Guide to Anuradhapura: All you need to know about
Travel Guide Anuradhapura: History of the Sacred City. The sacred city of Anuradhapura is located in the northern-central part of Sri Lanka. Next to Jaffna, it is probably the most visited destination towards the north of this island.For our 3-week Sri Lanka itinerary, we decided to follow the north-to-south loop.After our safari adventure in Wilpattu National Park, we found our way to ...
The Complete Travel Guide to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Anuradhapura is one of the most unique towns I have ever been to. Its significance in Sri Lankan culture, religion, and history is impossible to overstate. Despite boasting some of Sri Lanka's most beautiful and impressive attractions, it maintains an off-the-beaten-path vibe. There are still relatively very few international tourists to this part of Sri… Read More The Complete Travel ...
19 Best Places To Visit In Anuradhapura In 2024
The ancient city of Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most historically, culturally, and religiously significant places in Sri Lanka. It's packed full of important monasteries, monuments, and other sights. Some of the top highlights include the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree (believed to be the oldest living human-planted tree in the world), the massive Ruwanwelisaya ...
25 Places to visit in Anuradhapura
1. Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree. UNESCO has determined the sacred city of Anuradhapura as a World Heritage. The preliminary analysis for the historical city of Anuradhapura to become a sacred city was the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. According to the documented evidence, this sacred tree was located in the old Maha Megha Vana Royal Park in Anuradhapura in ...
Anuradhapura travel
Asia. The ruins of Anuradhapura are one of South Asia's most evocative sights. The sprawling complex contains a rich collection of archaeological and architectural wonders: enormous dagobas (brick stupas), ancient pools and crumbling temples, built during Anuradhapura's thousand years of rule over Sri Lanka. Today, several of the sites ...
Exploring the Best Attractions and Hidden Gems in Anuradhapura: A
Anuradhapura, located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, is a city known for its historical and cultural significance. Location and climate. Anuradhapura is in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. This ancient city has a tropical climate. It is hot and humid most days. The temperature stays around 80 degrees Fahrenheit all year round.
13 Amazing Places To Visit In Anuradhapura (Sri Lanka)
The stone bridge dates back to 5-9th centuries. There are other stone bridges to discover in Anuradhapura too, these include: Bridge over Malwathu Oya (Anuradhapura) Bridge over Halpan Ela (Anuradhapura) Bridge close to Mahakanadarawa Reservoir (Mihintale) 12. Visit the Samadhi Buddha. Source.
Top 18 Places to Visit in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
17. Nuwara wewa. Nuwarawewa reservoir is a great destination to discover the history of Sri Lanka. Nuwara wewa is one of the men made reservoirs out of the 3 main reservoirs in Anuradhapura. Basawakkulama (Abhaya wewa) and the Tissa wewa are the other 2 reservoirs in Anuradhapura.
THE 30 BEST Places to Visit in Anuradhapura (UPDATED 2024)
Book these experiences for a close-up look at Anuradhapura. See all. Wilpattu National Park Jeep Safari from Negombo / Waikkal (All Inclusive) 38. 4WD Tours. from. ₹12,994. per adult (price varies by group size) Safari at Wilpattu National Park from Negombo (Private Day Tour)
Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka: All You Must Know Before You Go (2024
Anuradhapura Tourism: Tripadvisor has 26,147 reviews of Anuradhapura Hotels, Attractions, and Restaurants making it your best Anuradhapura resource. ... Bed and Breakfast Anuradhapura Vacation Rentals Flights to Anuradhapura Anuradhapura Restaurants Things to Do in Anuradhapura Anuradhapura Travel Forum Anuradhapura Photos Anuradhapura Map.
21 Amazing Places to Visit in Anuradhapura in 2024
The Dambulla Cave Temple is located in the city of Dambulla, 63 km south of Anuradhapura. From Anuradhapura, you can hire a driver to take you. It should take about 1.5 hours and cost 12,000 LKR for the entire day, roundtrip. To get to Dambulla via public transport, you can take either a train or a bus.
The 11 Most Interesting Historical Places To Visit In Anuradhapura
The 11 Most Interesting Historical Places To Visit In Anuradhapura. by Asian Wanderlust. 47 1. The sacred city of Anuradhapura is a place I really loved visiting during my trip to Sri Lanka. It is part of the famous Sri Lankan Cultural Triangle which is the historic center of the island. The triangle covers the area from Anuradhapura to ...
Anuradhapura Travel Guide: The Complete Guide
The city of Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been the center of Theravada Buddhism for several centuries. It is located 205 km north of Colombo (current capital city of Sri Lanka) in Sri Lanka's North Central Province. Standing on the banks of the historic Malvathu Oya, this city is an ancient … Read more "Anuradhapura Travel Guide: The Complete Guide"
Anuradhapura Sri Lanka Tourism (2024) Travel Guide
Anuradhapura Travel Packages . Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free . 7 Days / 6 Nights. Heritage Sri Lanka Tour - Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kandy & More &dollar;662 per adult on twin sharing Get Quotes > 7 Days / 6 Nights. ... Anuradhapura Photos + 12 photos. FAQs on Anuradhapura .
Places To Visit In Anuradhapura
National Park (1) 1. Sri Maha Bodhi. 4.5 /5. 4 km. from city center 1 out of 20. Places To Visit in Anuradhapura. The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is one of the most ancient trees which are living even today standing tall in the Mahamewna Gardens in Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka. The tree is believed to have sprouted from a cutting brought from Bodh Gaya in ...
Visit the Ruins of Anuradhapura: One of Sri Lanka ...
The Anuradhapura ruins are open from 7 AM to 5:30 PM every day, and I would recommend that you get an early start as the weather in Anuradhapura is stifling and overwhelmingly steamy. An adult ticket costs 25 USD. Tickets are half-priced for children from 6-12 years old.
Anuradhapura Sri Lanka
Overview. Declared by UNESCO as a world heritage city, Anuradhapura is regarded as Sri Lanka's first known kingdom and the capital of the island for many centuries. Being well known for its cultural and religious value, the city attracts many local and foreign visitors who love to explore the ancient history of Sri Lanka.
THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Anuradhapura
Buddha's Enlightenment. Samadhi refers to Buddha's enlightenment which is depicted by the statue with the sitting position of meditation. The statue is located in the Mahamevnawa Park in between the Twin Ponds and Thuparamaya Temple. It is inclusive in the entrance fee for Anuradhapura Ancient Site at USD25 or LKR4,550.
Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Anuradhapura is Sri Lanka's oldest royal city. It was founded in the 4th century BC and in 993, the Tamils plundered the city and the Sinhalese left for Polonnaruwa. For more than 500 years, they stayed in Anuradhapura. Thankfully, much remains of this ancient town. That is why it is also on UNESCO's World Heritage List.
10 Places To Visit In Anuradhapura For A Rejuvenating Holiday In 2022
10 Best Places To Visit In Anuradhapura. This list of the top places in Anuradhapura will help you plan a better holiday. So, do not miss out on any of the listings if you want to have fun as well as know more about this city. Tissa Wewa. Thanthirimale. Padeniya Raja Maha Viharaya. Wilpattu National Park.
Anuradhapura City Sri Lanka
Anuradhapura is an ancient city, located at a distance of 206 km from Colombo. The city is in northern Sri Lanka and is the capital of North-Central province. Anuradhapura was established in 4th century BC. It was the first capital of Sri Lanka and remained so until 8th century AD.
Anuradhapura
By plane [edit]. 1 Anuradhapura Airport (ACJ IATA), Airport Rd. (updated May 2015)FitsAir - Charter flights from Colombo-Ratmalana; By bus [edit]. Buses travel along A9 highway, you can find buses from/to Colombo in Bastian Mawatha Terminal in Fort (five hours, every half hour, until 08:30) for a non-air-conditioned public bus, costs around Rs. 350, Kandy (three hours, every hour two or more ...
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Create a Shutterfly Travel Book To Relive Your Vacations
Here's a step-by-step guide to creating a travel photo book of your recent vacation: How To Create a Custom Shutterfly Photo Book. Image: Shutterfly. Shutterfly offers three ways to create your book. The simplest option is to upload between 20 and 800 of your travel photos to Shutterfly.com and they'll create the book for you from the ...
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Southwest Airlines said it will limit hiring and suspend operations at four airports in the U.S. and Mexico following a loss of profits and delays getting planes from Boeing.. In a release posted ...
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Whitby Hotel Midtown The Firmdale group earned Three Keys twice in New York City. Like their Crosby Street Hotel (below), they built the Whitby from the ground up, with large windows and plenty of natural light — and we'll point specifically to the wonderful Whitby Suite, with its terraces on each side, as a particularly unique gem for the city.
Mount Fuji: Japanese town putting up eight-foot barrier to block ...
A picturesque Japanese town is putting up a giant mesh barrier to block a popular selfie spot near Mount Fuji. Fujikawaguchiko, at the foot of the Yoshida Trail to Mount Fuji, has become overrun ...

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Anuradhapura: All you need to know about the Sacred City of Sri Lanka

Is Anuradhapura worth visiting?

Travel Guide Anuradhapura: History of the Sacred City

The first capital of Sri Lanka

Unesco World Heritage

Travel Guide Anuradhapura: The best things to do & see

Explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura

Practical information

Sri Maha Bodhi

Ruvanvelisaya Dagoba

Isurumuniya Vihara

Abhayagiri Dagoba

Mirisavatiya dagoba

Mahasena Temple (Moonstone)

The Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)

Finish your tour at the Tessa Wewa lake

View the sunset from Mihintale

The birthplace of Buddhism

Travel Guide Tips for visiting the ancient city of Anuradhapura

Get around by tuk-tuk or bicycle

Bring socks

Temple etiquette

Travel Guide Anuradhapura: Where to stay?

Water Front Home Stay

Travel Guide Anuradhapura: Where & what to eat?

Recommended restaurants in Anuradhapura

Dinner at your guesthouse

Travel Guide Anuradhapura: How to get to Anuradhapura?

How to get to Anuradhapura from Dambulla / Sigirya?

How to guide your travel to Anuradhapura from Kandy?

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The Complete Travel Guide to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Table of Contents

How To Get To Anuradhapura From Colombo

How To Get To Anuradhapura From Kandy

How To Get To Anuradhapura From Dambulla or Sigiriya

The Best Things To See In Anuradhapura

Abhayagiri Dagoba

The Moonstone

Kuttam Pokuna

Thuparamaya

Jetavanaramaya Dagaba

Ruwanwelisaya Stupa

Mirisawetiya Stupa

Sri Sarananda Maha Pirivena

Isurumuniya Rajamaha Viharaya

Exploring Anuradhapura By Foot

Exploring Anuradhapura By Bike

Exploring Anuradhapura By Tuk-Tuk

Exploring Anuradhapura By Car:

View All Posts on Sri Lanka

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19 Best Places To Visit In Anuradhapura In 2024

Best Places to Visit in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

1. Sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Tree

2. Ruwanweli Maha Seya (also known as Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba)

3. Isurumuniya Rajamaha Viharaya Temple

4. Jetavanaramaya (Jethawanaramaya) Stupa

5. Abhayagiri Monastery Complex

6. Abhayagiriya Stupa

7. Samadhi Statue

8. Lankaramaya Dagoba

9. Ratnaprasada (/Rathna Prasadaya) (or Jewel Palace)

The Ratnaprasada Moonstone

10. Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)

11. Lovamahapaya (Brazen Palace)

12. Vessagiriya Cave Temples

13. Thuparamaya Dagoba

14. Ranmasu Uyana (Royal Park)

15. Mirisawetiya Dagoba

16. Nuwarawewa Lake

17. Tissa Wewa

18. Mihintale Mountain

19. (BONUS) – Wilpattu National Park

How to Get to Anuradhapura