travel to anuradhapura

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Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka | Complete Travel Guide To The Sacred City

The sacred city of Anuradhapura is a must-stop on your Sri Lanka itinerary if you want to get a taste of the country’s rich history. We absolutely loved this place and it just might have been one of our favorites from our 3-week backpacking trip. This Anuradhapura travel guide 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 sight Mihintale , Anuradhapura is the perfect destination to learn more about Sri Lanka’s culture & history .

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Quick Sri Lanka Trip Planning Essentials

VISA Apply for a tourist visa online , which allows a 30-day stay. Submit your application at least a week before departure to promptly secure your Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) confirmation.

TRAVEL INSURANCE Safeguard your backpacking journey through Sri Lanka with comprehensive coverage from  Heymondo  for trustworthy travel insurance. ( Get 5% OFF through our link )

FLIGHTS Explore the best flight deals to Colombo, Sri Lanka, using Skyscanner . 

INTERNET Get a local SIM card from SLT Mobitel   or opt for an  E-sim in advance through   Airalo . 

ACCOMMODATION Cozy Guesthouse ($) Water Front Home Stay ; Green Oasis ($$) Hotel Heladiv ; Boutique Hotel ($$) Aryana Boutique Hotel  

TRANSPORT Ready to travel to your next destination in Sri Lanka? Book your onward bus or train tickets via 12go .

CURRENCY The local currency is Sri Lankan rupee (LKR) , and the exchange rate is around 1 USD = 300 LKR. Check XE Currency Converter for updated exchange rates. 

TOURS & ATTRACTIONS Recommended day tour of Anuradhapura & Mihintale with English Guide. For more tours and day trip excursions, check out GetYourGuide or Viator .

Travel tips for visiting Anuradhapura

Is anuradhapura worth visiting.

While planning our 3-week journey we were going back and forth on whether or not to add Anuradhapura to our Sri Lanka 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 traveler’s itineraries 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 the perfect place 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. So yes, we think Anuradhapura is absolutely worth visiting !

How Many Days to Spend in Anuradhapura?

Anuradhapura is full of stunning historical sites worth exploring. To truly experience it, plan to spend at least 2 nights here. This way you have a full day to explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura as well as the beautiful temple site of Mihintale . However, if your schedule is tight, consider a day trip from Sigiriya or Dambulla instead.

We arrived at our guest house 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 a beautiful sunset. The next day we spent the day discovering the ancient city of Anuradhapura.  

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.

Planning a trip to Sri Lanka?

Our 3-week Sri Lanka itinerary has everything you need to plan your trip to the coconut island! This guide covers the top places to visit, travel tips, and must-do activities for each spot. We’ve also added our favorite accommodation and dining recommendations to give your adventure a local flavor.

Best Time to Visit Anuradhapura

Sri Lanka has two main monsoon seasons that affect different parts of the country. Anuradhapura, being further north, is best visited from March to September when the rain in the north begins to ease. We visited in March and had perfect weather. Regarding the best time of the day to visit the ancient city of Anuradhapura, we suggest waking up early! 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 as it starts to get hot around noon. Another wonderful thing about going early is there are practically no other tourists in sight, only locals who come for their morning prayer.

How to Get Around the Ancient City of Anuradhapura?

By Bike – Don’t underestimate the distances between the temples & ruins 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. Many guesthouses & hotels offer bicycle rental as a service. Alternatively, there are enough bicycle rentals along the road to the sacred city. Renting a bike will cost you around 500 LKR (~ $1,5) 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 ;).

By Tuk-tuk – 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 tour is recommended if you want to learn more about the history, background stories, and culture. This really makes your visit to this ancient town complete. 

What to wear & tips for visiting the ancient city of Anuradhapura

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 you might not be allowed to enter otherwise. Here are a few temple etiquette tips for your visit:

• When entering a temple site or a sacred place, remove your shoes and hat .
• Dress modestly when visiting temples, meaning cover your upper arms and knees . It’s always a good idea 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: Never stand with your back to a Buddha statue or stupa .
• When you are visiting a dagoba or stupa, remember to walk around the dome clockwise .

TIP | 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.

SUMMARY INFO FOR VISITING

• The sights are spread out over an area of 40 square kilometers so we advice to rent a bike or tuk-tuk with a guide to get around.
• 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.
• On average it will take you around 4 to 5 hours to cover the most important parts of the grounds.
• Most temples & ruins inside the ancient city of Anuradhapura are open daily from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm.
• In order to access the ruins of the sacred city, you will need to buy a day pass. The entrance fee for the ancient city of Anuradhapura is around $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 an additional 1000 rupees (~$3).
• Also, don’t forget to hydrate often in that heat, for example with a delicious refreshing coconut from one of the food stands.

Where to stay in Anuradhapura?

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 nice to have options within walking distance and not always have to rely on getting 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 in Anuradhapura. Not only is this type of accommodation more affordable, but it also gives you the chance to connect to locals and have a more authentic experience.

COZY GUESTHOUSE WITH FRIENDLY HOSTS – 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.

CHARMING GUESTHOUSE WITH RICE FIELDS VIEWS – Heaven Upon Rice Fields

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.

GREEN OASIS WITH SWIMMING POOL – Hotel Heladiv

If you are looking for a hotel option right within nature with the option of having a refreshing swimming pool at the end of the day, then Hotel Heladiv is a great option. Guests can enjoy a beautiful garden, shared lounge as well as a dinner on site. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, and the friendly staff can arrange your visit to the ancient city.

MID-RANGE BOUTIQUE HOTEL | Aryana Boutique Hotel

In the heart of Anuradhapura, Aryana Boutique Hotel offers a pleasant stay with its outdoor pool, garden, and communal lounge. Some rooms even come with their own terrace. The on-site restaurant serves a varied menu featuring Chinese, French, and Indian cuisine. Additionally, the hotel is bike-friendly and provides rentals for those looking to discover the ancient city on two wheels.

History of the Sacred City of Anuradhapura

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, 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 Site

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.

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Places to visit in Anuradhapura Ancient 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.

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.

The whole area almost feels like one big park, with lakes and rice fields surrounding the sights. If you have been to Ayutthaya in Thailand , you could compare it to that. 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. However the main sights require a day ticket, and you don’t want to miss out on these.

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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

4. 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’. 

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. The Ratnaprasada or ‘Jewel Palace’

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 holding 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.

8. The Elephant Pond (Eth Pokuna)

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.

9. The Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)

Another water 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.

10. 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.

TOP TIP | 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!

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.

ENTRANCE FEE | 1000 LKR (~ $3,5)

OPENING TIMES | 9 am to 5 pm

READ MORE | Mihintale: A Beautiful Buddhist Temple in Sri Lanka

Where & what to eat in Anuradhapura?

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 & snack places 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 house if they offer it! Like we did at the Water Front Homestay , which was 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.

How to get to Anuradhapura?

How to get to anuradhapura from colombo.

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

By Public Bus: 200 LKR (~$1), 5-6 hours

Overall public bus transportation is one of the cheapest ways to get around . It will probably cost you around 200 LKR. Keeping traffic & frequent stops 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 Sri Lanka’s National Transport Website for bus lines and schedules . However, we suggest double-checking your bus at the bus station (Pettah bus stand near Fort Station).

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

This option is a bit more comfortable than the public bus to get to Anuradhapura . It will take you around 5,5 hours and costs roughly 240-370 LKR. For the train schedules, you can check Sri Lanka’s Railway Website . You can easily buy your tickets directly at Colombo Fort train station.

By Travel Bus: ~$15, 3-4 hours

As of lately, there are also travel buses doing the route from Colombo to Anuradhapura, which only takes 3-4 hours. If you are tight on schedule and you don’t mind paying a bit more, we can highly recommend this option . You can easily book your tickets online in advance via 12Go.Asia , which is our go-to website platform for booking transport in Asia.

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 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 Sigirya & Dambulla?

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 20 minutes. 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 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 43 (line Kandy – Vavuniya) heading north to Anuradhapura. 

Practical Travel Resources

TRANSPORTATION |  For hassle-free bus, minivan, and train bookings across Sri Lanka, we recommend using the user-friendly platform  12go.Asia . Skip the queues and reserve your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons.

ACCOMMODATION |  Booking affordable accommodations in Sri Lanka is effortless with  Booking.com . This platform is perfect for discovering budget-friendly hostels, guesthouses, and hotels tailored to your preferences.

FLIGHTS |  Find the best flight deals to Sri Lanka on  Skyscanner . Benefit from their feature highlighting the cheapest days to fly and the flexibility to search by month or region. 

TRAVEL INSURANCE |  Ensure comprehensive and reliable coverage for your backpacking journey in Sri Lanka with  Heymondo . Prioritize peace of mind with their trustworthy travel insurance options.  Get 5% OFF through our link .

STAY CONNECTED |  Guarantee reliable internet access throughout your Sri Lanka trip by using  Airalo . Install it on your eSIM-compatible smartphone before your journey for convenient connectivity.

TOURS & ATTRACTIONS |  Explore the best city tours, day excursions, safari trips, and cooking classes in Sri Lanka with  GetYourGuide  or  Viator .

VISA ORGANIZATION |  Check visa requirements for your passport nationality before your Sri Lanka trip with  iVisa.com .

We hope this Anuradhapura travel guide 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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19 Best Places To Visit In Anuradhapura In 2024

• Last Updated: August 20, 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

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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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Alex Tiffany

I believe in transparency: Please note that some links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you purchase something through them, I might earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. (For example, a s an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through some of these links.)  However, I only link to products and companies that I trust and honestly recommend. See my  disclosures page for more information. The income goes towards keeping this site up and running. Thanks for your support.

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• I’m Alex Tiffany. Originally from the UK, I’ve been travelling on-and-off for 13+ years. I love offbeat travel and discovering lesser-known spots.
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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 .

More on that below ...

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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Let us know what you think.

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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.

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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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
• How to get around: search for trains and buses
• Travel insurance: get travel insurance for your trip
• Money: get a Wise money card to save money in Sri Lanka

Table of Contents

When to Visit 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. 

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. 

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.

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. 

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that if you buy or book anything through them, we’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us run this website and create comprehensive guides to help you get off the beaten track. We only recommend products and/or services that we use ourselves and trust. 

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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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The 11 Most Interesting Historical Places To Visit In Anuradhapura

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 Polonnaruwa and Kandy .

Anuradhapura is, therefore, one of the pillars of Sri Lankan culture; it’s called the sacred city for a reason! From India, Buddhism came to Anuradhapura and began to spread around the island. Its spread was made possible thanks to the famous encounter between an Indian Buddhist monk (Mahinda) and the king of Anuradhapura, in Mihintale in the 3rd century BC. I’ll tell you more about it at the end of this blog post.

Anuradhapura has been the capital of Ceylon, former name of the country of Sri Lanka , for over a millennium! But it was continually attacked by its Indian neighbors and was eventually invaded and partly destroyed. It was abandoned in 993 and Polonnaruwa became the capital of the country.

The history of Anuradhapura is really rich and we will look at a few aspects of it through the beautiful temples of the city. By the way, the historic site of the city has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982.

As usual, here are some tips as far as transportation and accommodation are concerned. We can then start our tour of the city!

How To Get To Anuradhapura?

From dambulla.

I made the trip from the city of Dambulla on a motorcycle. It was a 70 km drive so about a 90-minute trip to get to Anuradhapura. If you’re also going there from Dambulla, you should know that there is no train that makes the trip from there to Anuradhapura. You’ll have to take a local bus from Dambulla for a two-hour trip to Anuradhapura. Buses are scheduled every hour.

From Colombo

If you’re coming from the capital Colombo , you can take the train to Anuradhapura from Colombo Fort. The trip takes about 4 hours and tickets costs 240 rupees (~ $1.5) for 3rd class and 370 rupees (~ $2) for 2nd class. Train transportation is not expensive in Sri Lanka so if you can get yourself the best available class for more comfort, don’t hesitate to do so! To check out train schedules, have a look at the country’s official railway website which is available in English.

Where To Stay In Anuradhapura?

All historical sites are located next to the city so it would be ideal if you could book your accommodation downtown or in the surrounding area. For your information, the city of Anuradhapura actually has just about 50,000 inhabitants and you will love its peaceful and pleasant atmosphere.

If you’re on a budget, you can book your spot at the Amsterdam Tourist Rest which is a charming guesthouse with a great location where you will find everything you need. You can also rent bikes if you’re planning to go on a temple tour. I think rent prices range from 300 to 400 rupees a day (a little over $2) if I remember correctly.

If you could use a little more comfort and a swimming pool (who wouldn’t?), you can book at the Heladiv Hotel .

Prices are affordable and you simply get what you pay for. Rooms are spacious and if you’re looking for a mix of well-being and adventure, you won’t be disappointed.

Where To Eat In Anuradhapura?

If you want to try the local specialties including the delicious Sri Lankan curry, I recommend the Rangiri restaurant, which is right here . The waiters speak a little English but sign language will easily get you your order. 😉 FYI, a dish typically costs between 300 and 500 rupees (around $2 to 3$).

The 11 Best Things To Do In Anuradhapura

Practical advice aside, let’s start our tour of Anuradhapura and discover the must-see attractions of the city. I marked them on the map below and we will go through them one by one, starting from the south and going up north. To fully enjoy the city, I’d say devote at least a day for Anuradhapura plus half a day for Mihintale (see the end of the blog post).

• Vessagiriya
• Isurumuni Viharaya
• Mirisavatiya Dagoba
• Sri Maha Bodhi (The Sacred Tree
• Ruwanwelisaya
• Thuparamaya
• Lankaramya Dagoba
• Abhayagiriya Dagoba
• The Samadhi Bouddha Statue

Most of the historical sites require proper attire that covers at least your knees. If you want to wear shorts, you will have to rent a sarong at each temple or simply buy one once and for all. I recommend you buy one so you can use it everywhere you need to in Sri Lanka and keep it as a nice and convenient souvenir!

As for transportation, I strongly recommend you rent a bike to move around freely because attractions are sometimes a bit far from each other. You can also ask a tuk-tuk to drive you around the city all day.

Get Your Entry Ticket

I am writing an entire blog post on the paid entry to the site because it is a bit complicated and I had trouble understanding it myself at first. You can also be exposed to scammers who take advantage of the confusion around this issue so let’s clear things up a bit here.

To access the temples of the sacred city, you have to pay a $25 entrance fee that will be valid all day, and that you can buy at the archaeological museum . Since the sacred city is not a well-defined area (unlike in Polonnaruwa where the historic site is), there is no actual entrance where people check that you have your ticket. Ticket checks are therefore more random and often take place on the road when you’re riding your bike for example. I was only stopped once by the moonstone for a ticket check, so even if that doesn’t happen systematically, make sure to buy your ticket.

The collected funds are used to preserve the historic site so there’s actually a good reason behind this. Remember that the only place where you will have to pay an additional entrance fee is the Isurumuni Viharaya temple (about 200 rupees).

On the other hand, there is a common scam in Anuradhapura that involves paying $25 directly to your tuk-tuk driver. Although they will tell you that they’re going to buy your ticket with that money, they will actually keep it for themselves and will try to take you to the site by dodging ticket checks or attempting to bribe control agents. So be careful and ask to see your ticket to be sure your money goes to the maintenance of the site.

Without further ado, let’s start our tour of the city! 🙂

1. Vessagiriya

Vessagiriya is an ancient Buddhist monastery that was built in the 3rd century BC. All that is left of it today are huge rocks that used to form the cellars where monks meditated. Although there is not much to see, climbing these huge rocks in this beautiful setting was a really nice adventure.

While strolling around the site, I witnessed a magical show! I actually saw a peacock trying to attract females by exhibiting his sublime feathers. And it worked! 15 minutes later, a female came up. 🙂 I’m sure you’d come across many peacocks in Sri Lanka. If you do, make sure to stay quiet around them, peacocks are rather fearful animals.

2. The Isurumuni Viharaya Temple

Price : 200 rupees (~ $1), not included in the ticket to the sacred city.

We’re now visiting the Buddhist temple Isurumuni Viharaya. It is known to be home to the Isurumuniya lovers’ sculpture. It portrays a woman sitting on the lap of a man, raising her finger to assert she’s not an easy girl.

The sculpture dates from the 6th century. No one knows exactly who is portrayed here but you’d probably be making a good guess if you thought royalty. During your visit, try throwing a coin into the hole you see below. If it stays in the hole, luck is on its way to you!

I managed to get one in the hole after a few (hundred) attempts! 😀 I’ll let you know when I’m a millionaire. 😉 Anyway, I made lots of new friends in the temple so I can already say that I am wealthy, as far as friendship is concerned. O:)

3. Mirisavatiya Dagoba

Let’s move on to more serious stuff with the beautiful Mirisavatiya Dagoba. FYI, the term “dagoba” is the equivalent of “stupa” in Sri Lanka. This one was built by King Dutugamunu in the 2nd century BC. It is said that before bathing in the Tissa Wewa, he laid down his scepter (which contained a relic of Buddha) on the shores of the artificial reservoir.

When he came back, he couldn’t move the scepter, which was somehow anchored to the ground. The king saw a sign in that and built the Mirisavatiya dagoba at that very spot.

4. Sri Maha Bodhi (The Sacred Tree)

The sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree is one of the most popular attractions in Anuradhapura and people often stand in line there, bringing offerings. What is so special about this tree, you say? You may know that Prince Siddhartha Gautama tried several methods to reach enlightenment. It was only after meditating under a fig tree that he became Buddha, the awakened one.

It is said that Sri Maha Bodhi grew thanks to a cutting of the same fig tree brought back from India by the daughter of Emperor Ashoka, the Princess Sangamitta. I think you can understand why this place is so important to the local people. Many people come to recite mantras together all day long. It was a very exciting atmosphere and I spent a good half hour there, enjoying the great vibes.

5. Ruwanwelisaya

The Ruwanwelisaya stupa is also one of the busiest places in the holy city. The crowd you see in the pictures is a Sunday crowd by the way. Some recommend to avoid weekends to visit the stupa but I’d say the opposite. Because then you can watch Sri Lankans going about their daily lives and performing their actual habits and traditions.

What you see on the left in the picture below are just water vapor jets to freshen up the visitors. It feels good when it is 32 degrees outside! 🙂

The Ruwanwelisaya stupa is said to contain relics of Buddha and is one of the greatest religious monuments in the world! It is 103 meters high and about 290 meters in circumference. It does make you feel really small.

If you like, you can do like the locals and drop some lotus flowers as an offering at the entrance of the stupa, then go around it clockwise.

6. Jethavana

This is another magnificent monument in Anuradhapura. It’s the Jethavana stupa which stands out by the beautiful ocher color of its bricks. Very few people visit this site so make sure to visit it! The stupa was built in the 3rd century BC and is said to contain a piece of the Buddha Belt. Yes! It’s considered a relic. 🙂

The size of the stupa is also impressive, it’s 122 meters high! It’s built with a little less than 100 million bricks that have been assembled on this very site. At the time, building that stupa was a real technical accomplishment.

7. Thuparamaya

Thuparamaya is a Buddhist temple that I also recommend you visit during your stay in Anuradhapura. The most interesting part of this archaeological site is probably the ruined building that you will find on your left when you get to the temple. The roof and most of the walls have collapsed, but a door there has stood the test of time, framing the Buddha statue inside the temple.

As you can see, it’s like we’re going back in time, visiting all these historic sites so it was a truly magical and exotic experience.

8. Lankaramya Dagoba

Lankaramya Dagoba The Lankaramya dagoba was built by King Valagamba in the first century BC. Seeing the pillars around the building, one can imagine the structure that used to cover the stupa but that no longer exists today.

9. Mahasena Temple (Moonstone)

Mahasena (moonstone in English or sandakada pahana in Sri Lankan) is an architectural element that is very common in Sri Lanka. It is found at the entrance of temples but also at ordinary houses or hotels. First seen during the Anuradhapura period, the moonstone that you see above dates precisely from that period.

The design of the moonstones is always the same. From the center out, you can see:

• Half a lotus,
• Intertwined leaves,
• Elephants, as symbols of growth, lions as symbols of energy, horses as symbols of power and bulls as symbols of patience

10. Abhayagiriya Dagoba

The Abhayagiriya dagoba is part of the famous monastery of the same name where thousands of Buddhist monks used to gather. Around the 13th century, however, the monastery was no longer active. It is actually the Abhayagiriya dagoba that you can see printed on the ticket to the sacred city. You will notice that it looks almost exactly like the Jethavana dagoba that I showed you earlier except that the tip of this dagoba remains intact.

11. The Samadhi Bouddha Statue

The Samadhi statue is our last attraction on this list. It was built in the 3rd or 4th century. You may notice that it has been restored a few times already, the nose had to be redone too. Don’t forget that if you’d like to take a picture with the Buddha statue, don’t turn your back on it. This is seen as a sign of disrespect and applies everywhere in Sri Lanka.

Visit Mihintale’s Historic Site

• Price: 500 rupees
• Exact location: https://goo.gl/maps/G3Hta8TCGrt

After visiting the beautiful sacred city of Anuradhapura, I suggest you also visit Mihintale’s historical site. There’s a beautiful historical site there known to be the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. It is said that an Indian Buddhist monk (Mahinda) came from the sky and landed on the rock that you see in the picture below to meet the king of Anuradhapura.

Mihintale is only 15 kilometers east of Anuradhapura. It would be such a shame to miss out on such a beautiful city! All my tips on how to get there and what to visit on Mihintale Sri Lanka .

Our tour of Anuradhapura ends here! How do you like this city? Are you going to visit it? Let me know in the comments below. 🙂

If you are a culture and history lover, you won’t regret adding Anuradhapura to your itinerary in Sri Lanka .

Don’t miss any of my blog posts on my trips in Asia, subscribe to my social media: Facebook Page , Facebook Group , Instagram , Youtube and  Pinterest .

See you soon,

This is a very nice article, thanks for your post!

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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

<a href=\"https://tools.wmflabs.org/wikivoyage/w/poi2gpx.php?print=gpx&amp;lang=en&amp;name=Anuradhapura\" title=\"Download GPX file for this article\" data-parsoid=\"{}\"><img alt=\"Download GPX file for this article\" resource=\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" src=\"//upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f7/GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" decoding=\"async\" data-file-width=\"20\" data-file-height=\"20\" data-file-type=\"bitmap\" height=\"20\" width=\"20\" class=\"mw-file-element\" data-parsoid='{\"a\":{\"resource\":\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\",\"height\":\"20\",\"width\":\"20\"},\"sa\":{\"resource\":\"File:GPX Document rev3-20x20.png\"}}'/></a></span>"}'/> Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage listed city in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka.

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.

• 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.

• FitsAir - Charter flights from Colombo-Ratmalana

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.

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.

It is possible to get to Anuradhapura on the A9 highway from Kandy 166 km away. The drive from Colombo takes approximately 4 hours.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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 )

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.

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

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).

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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)

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

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

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.

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?

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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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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• 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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Anuradhapura is affectionately referred to as the ‘Garden of Dagobas’. Located in the heart of the Cultural Triangle, this ancient city was documented as the first kingdom of Sri Lanka, dating to the 4th century BC. It was during the peak of this kingdom that Buddhism became the established religion in the country, which is signified by the dominating structure of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya along with other temples and ruins dotted around the historic town. Stroll along the remnants of the past or cycle around the ancient kingdom instead.

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Attractions.

Possessing several monuments in the form of ancient temples, and religious artefacts, there are many remnants of a kingdom lost to time.

Ratnaprasadaya

Jetavanarama Stupa

Lovamahapaya

Thuparama Stupa

Abhayagiri Stupa

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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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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?

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.

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.

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....

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The Most Significant Places to Visit in Anuradhapura!

Anuradhapura is a noteworthy ancient capital of Sri Lanka, the pearl of the Indian Ocean. It was the first well-established ancient kingdom in the graceful history of this splendid island. Also, it remained the longest. Accordingly, Anuradhapura Kingdom was the capital of the Sinhalese reign from the 4th century BC to the 11th century AD. Going beyond, its civilizations were one of the greatest that emerged in the whole world. Moreover, its political power and socio-cultural values were strong and remarkable beyond words. The ruins of these kingdoms exhibiting the ancient grandeur still exist in this region. Thus, there are many places with religious and cultural values that are ideal to visit in Anuradhapura.

Of course, even after several hundred thousand years, we still appreciate them and value them. Therefore, we thought of sharing with you their delight, in order to help you explore the majesty of Anuradhapura, in the best way possible. So, why not? Continue reading, and enlighten yourself!

Things to do in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura provides you amazing opportunities to explore this sacred city in various ways. However, you can find below, the best way to explore this wonderful city.

• Sightseeing

Whatever it is, the main thing to do in Anuradhapura is to explore the vast archeological ruins and fascinating religious sites. Therefore, first of all, let’s get to know about the places to visit in the charming city of Anuradhapura.

The Best Places to Visit in Anuradhapura

Indeed, as we always highlight, Anuradhapura houses a bunch of places with significant cultural and religious values. Hence, if you visit Anuradhapura you have plenty of places to visit and enjoy as per your wish. So, in order to choose the best, we have listed below the most ideal places to visit in Anuradhapura. Never forget to have a look!

• Sri Maha Bodhi

Abhayagiri Dagoba

Ruwanweli maha seya.

• Isuruminya Temple
• Abhyagiriya Museum
• Brazen Palace
• Mirisawetiya Dagoba

Royal Palace

• Jethawana Dagoba

Thuparama Dagoba

• Awukana Buddha Statue

Anuradhapura Ruins

• Sandakadapahana
• Kuttam Pokuna

Samadhi Buddha Statue

• Archeological Museum

Nuwarawewa Tank

Thissa wewa.

Of course, all these places hold a uniqueness of their own. Moreover, the grandeur they exhibit is impressive beyond a doubt. So, for abetter overview, let’s get to know about each of these places in detail.

Sri Maha Bodhi (The Sacred Bo Tree)

Sri Maha Bodhi is a sacred acacia tree located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It is the southern sapling of the historical Bodhi tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment in India. In the 3rd century, Theri Sangamatta brought this Bo sapling to Sri Lanka. She was the daughter of the Indian Emperor Ashoka, who later became a pioneer in establishing the Sri Lanka Bhikkhuni Sasana. However, King Devanampiyatisa was ruling the country, when Sangamitta Theri arrived. So, King Devanampiyatissa in 249 BC, planted this Bo Sapling, ceremoniously, in the Maha Mevna Uyana in Anuradhapura. Hence, it is by far the oldest tree in the world with a recorded planting history.

From time immemorial, Buddhists came from far and wide to pay homage to this sacred Bodhi tree. Buddhists believe that offering sacrifices to the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi will bring significant and positive changes in their lives. Hence, Buddhists make special offerings to the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, wishing success in their pursuit of various goals such as healing, childbirth, passing exams, and employment. It is also a long-standing tradition among the farmers of Anuradhapura to offer their first paddy harvest of the year to the Sri Maha Bodhi tree. Going beyond, the Bo tree is revered by many people and thus, holds a cultural heritage.

This is just a glimpse of this most sacred Bo tree of Buddhists, Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. Check our article on ‘ Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi ‘, to get to know more about its grandeur.

It is also famous as the Abhayagiri Uththara Maha Chaitya. King Walagamba built this stupa. A coffin in the shape of a bull is treasured here. To the north of the city of Anuradhapura, there is this Abhayagiri Dagoba with its walls, ornate carvings, highly artistic fence, and moonstone. Also, Abhayagiri is not just a temple complex. It was also a bhikkhu sect that maintained a unique historical writing tradition and way of life. Moreover, from the 2nd century, it was an international center that froze all Buddhist philosophy, attracting scholars from all over the world. Thus, in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, the Abhayagiri Vihara, the Maha Vihara, and the Jetavana Buddhist sects stood on equal footing.

Ruwanweli Maha Seya or Swarnamali Maha Seya is a majestic stupa in the sacred city of Anuradhapura. This was the main dagoba belonging to the ancient Maha Vihara. Also, this still remains as the main dagoba of the Maha Vihara in the present as well. Ruwanweli Seya was the most important physical shrine in ancient Sri Lanka until the establishment of the Temple of Tooth Relic. However, with a diameter of 338 feet (103 m) and 942 feet (287.1 m), Ruwanmahaweli Seya stands as one of the tallest monuments in the present world.

Owing to its historical and religious values, this undoubtedly happens to be one of the best places to visit in Anuradhapura. Besides, this is just a quick run-through of its significance. Feel free to check our article on ‘ Ruwanweli Maha Seya ‘ for a detailed overview.

Isurumuniya Temple

King Devanampiyatissa, a prominent ruler from the Sri Lankan Monarch built this temple. Further, there is a belief that the purpose of building it was to house 500 high caste children. However, King Kasyapa (473 – 491) renovated this temple and named it “Boupulvan Kasubgiri Radmahavehera”. There is a temple by a cave, and above it is a rock. Also, there is a small stupa. At the bottom, on either side of an opening, are ivory figures that emerge from a pond. Besides, this site houses a bunch of amazing carvings, that hold a series of fantastic artistic values.

Isurumuni Pemuwala

A 6th-century mystical sculpture. It depicts a woman sitting on a man’s lap. There is a belief that this carving features King Dutu Gemunu’s son Prince Saliya, and his girlfriend Ashokamala, a saddle girl. Nevertheless, this remains one of the most valuable artistic sculptures from the Kingdom of Anuradhapura.

Man and horse head

This carving shows a human and a horse’s head. It is also one of the most appreciable sculptures from ancient Sir Lanka. However, there is a belief that this carving signifies Agni (fire) and Parjanya (cloud).

Abhayagiriya Museum

The Abhayagiri Museum is located in the Abhayagiri Ancient Monastery Complex in Anuradhapura. This was opened on June 13, 1992. Architecturally designed with the ancient Panchavasa Sangarama in mind, the museum was built by the Central Cultural Fund with a generous donation from the People’s Republic of China. Named the “Mahatissa Fa-Hien Cultural Complex”, the museum commemorates the Chinese Fa-Hien monks who studied Buddhism at the Abhayagiri Maha Vihara during ancient times.

In brief, this museum reveals the grandeur of ancient Sri Lanka as a land of great harmony between art and technology. To be specific, the Abhayagiri Vihara, which functioned from the 1st century BC to the 11th century BC, had bronze technology. So, this museum features fine arts in the ancient architecture of the scriptures, sculptures and carvings, sanitation in the fine arts, water management technology, temple administration, and a collection of informative artifacts from this wonderful period of Anuradhapura.

Lowamahapaya (Brazen Palace)

Lowamahapaya is a sub-hall built in the 1st century in the Maha Vihara, and it still stands near the Ruwanweli Maha Seya, in Anuradhapura. Its roof is of Metal tiles. Thus, it was famous as the Metal Palace in the history of Sri Lanka as well. The Lowamaha Palace was built by King Dutugemunu. The present small building in the middle is a modern one, but the monks of the Bodhimalu dynasty still use this place for the poya rituals of the Maha Vihara.

In the past, there was an almshouse, a lodge, and a sub-hall. There was also a boundary stone and on the days of Poya, the monks would gather and perform Poya rituals. It was a nine-story mansion with 100 rooms on each floor. The ground floor was for the Protestant monks, the second floor for the Tripitaka monks, the third, fourth, and fifth floors for the Sovan, ascetic, and non-secular monks, and the rest for the Arahants.

The building is square and the sides are 400 feet long. The roof was made of copper and bell alloy bronze tiles. Moreover, that is the reason why it got the name, ‘Lowamahapaya’, meaning the ‘red palace’. There are 40 rows of stone pillars. The total number of stone pillars is 1600 with 40 pillars per row. All of these are the same in height. Further, these pillars are adorned with solid figures and floral scrolls. It is said that it took 6 years to complete the building. It is believed that the plan of Lowamahapa was built to resemble the palace of the goddess Tharani Thawthisa “Bharani” and that a pavilion similar to the female vehicle of “Vesravana” was erected in the middle of the palace.

Mirisawetiya Dagaba

The Mirisawetiya Dagoba is the first dagoba built by King Dutugemunu the Great, who ruled Ceylon during the period 161 – 137 BC.  However, later various kings rebuilt and expanded it. This dagoba is mentioned in historical legends as one of the foremost dagobas of that time.

Also, there is an interesting story about why King thought of building this stupa. He placed the relics of the Buddha on a stick, and then he left the stick to go to Tissa Wewa to take a bath. After bathing, he returned to the place where the baton had been placed and noticed that it could not be carried. Then, he had thought to build a stupa at the place where the rod was. Also, he named this stupa ‘Mirisawetiya’, commemorating the ill-deed he did by enjoying a chilly curry without offering it to Sanga. He had thought, that building this stupa is a punishment for his ill-deed.

However, after a series of renovations, Mirisawetiya still stands strong adding a glamour of charm to the ancient city of Anuradhapura. So, beyond a doubt, it is one of the best places for you to visit in Anuradhapura.

Among the cultural and religious attractions in Anuradhapura, the Royal palace held a fabulous prestige over the past ecnturies. It is located about 200 m north of the Thuparama Dagoba. The Royal Palace was built by King Vijayabahu, a crown head during the 12th century. His purpose of building this was to use it for some transitional ceremonies in Anuradhapura.

The stone buildings of the palace still remain in good condition. Also, you can see a ruined temple on its southern side. After all, these Royal Palace ruins simply happen to be one of the best places to visit in Anuradhapura. Further, the Royal Palace is regarded as a photogenic site for travelers in the present as well.

Jethawana Dagaba

Standing 400 feet (120 m) high, it is the tallest stupa in the world. It is also the largest brick-built building to date. Jethawanaramaya was built by Mahayana Buddhist King Mahasen (273 – 301). It is believed that part of the belt relic worn by the Buddha is treasured there. So, this is a consumer chaitya. It is the 3rd largest structure in the ancient world after the two Great Pyramids at Giza. Approximately 93,300,000 baked bricks were used to build it.

The area around it is about 8 acres (5.6 ha). More than 3,000 Buddhist monks were accommodated in this viharaya. The length of one side of the stupa is 576 feet. The stairway on all four sides is about 28 feet wide. The altar in the courtyard is 27 feet high. The foundation of the stupa extends to a depth of 6 meters and is built on the rock on which it is located. The names of the people who supported the building industry are inscribed on a stone plaque.

Thuparamaya is considered to be the first Chethiya built in Sri Lanka after the introduction of Buddhism. The shrine was built in a Vatadage on a high platform. The wall around the dagoba of the Vatadage and the roof above it is now defunct but the four rows of stones that supported the roof are still intact. These four rows of stones vary in height from one another. In each inner row, the pillar is taller than the outer row. All stone pillars are octagonal. The carvings on the pillar heads are also different from each other. The first and second rows are adorned with solid heads, the third row is adorned with bird figures and the fourth row is adorned with floral letters.

To the south of the eastern entrance is a small pantry for the convenience of the pilgrims. The steps leading to the Dagaba and the cobblestones, watchtowers, and moonstones on either side are also beautifully designed. Owing to these features, Thuparamaya not only happens to be a religious attraction, but also a cultural attraction with a series of amazing artifacts. Hence, this is surely one of the best places to visit in Anuradhapura.

Aukana Buddha Statue

The Aukana Statue is simply a wonderful creation that positions Sri Lanka as a proud nation in the eyes of the world. Also, this work unveils to the world the past pride of a great generation of Sri Lanan artists.

Carved in the face of a large black stone, the statue is 38 feet 10 inches high. It stands facing the Kalawewa and is considered by some scholars to be the masterpiece of Dhatusena, the 5th-century ruler of Ceylon. Moreover, this statue is undoubtedly one of the finest surviving statues found in Sri Lanka. Therefore, it certainly happens to be one of the best places to visit in Anuradhapura.

Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka has a unique beauty, owing to the treasure it holds with regard to religious and cultural history. The historic and spectacular values of this city reveal the vast empire of the ancient capital of Sri Lanka. Also, its ruins are reflections of what was in antiquity. Hence, the ruins in Anuradhapura are simply worth exploring. You can find below some of its most significant ruins.

However, the excitement is not only in observing these ancient monuments but also in understanding their legends and exploring their delight in every detail. So, if you ever visit Anuradhapura, never forget to witness their enchantment, and the following briefs would help you explore them in a better way.

Sandakada Pahana (Moonstone)

The moonstone is the crescent-shaped stone slab at the foot of the stairs. They were common at religious places. However, during the later centuries, carved moonstones were used for important places such as idol houses as well. Further, moonstones belong to the seventh and ninth centuries. In the early days, this was done in a simple manner without any carvings. Then after several years, they have been decorated.

The moonstone in the Bisomaliga of the Abhayagiri Vihara in Anuradhapura is considered to be one of the finest works of art. According to Prof. Paranavithana, these carvings remind the viewer of Buddhist ideas. According to him, the horseshoe surrounded by an artistically represented flame on it, signifies that the ordinary world is full of troubles and sufferings.

Eth Pokuna (Elephant Pond)

This is a historical pond in the ancient city of Anuradhapura and is in the southwest of the Abhayagiri Stupa, close to the Lankaramaya. Due to its size, it is popular as the Elephant Pond. Still, in the past it was popular as the Maspotha Pond.

The pond is 159 meters long and 52.7 meters wide and has a depth of 9.5 meters. Also, this happens to be the largest pond in Sri Lanka. There are two main waterways that supply water to the pond. One of these routes still brings water from the Periyankulama tank to the pond. It has two other waterways on the south side, one of which still supplies water to the Elephant Pond during periods of heavy rainfall. It is said that this pond was built to meet the drinking needs of the monks of the Abhayagiri. Also, this is popular as a work of art by King Agbo I. However, it is indeed a splendor of the era, and thus, is one of the best places to visit in Anuradhapura.

Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)

Kuttam Pond is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful creations by our ancient ancestors. Moreover, it depicts how strong their connections were with nature, and also their frozen artistic talents. It is not a sacred place but it is one of the most visited places by the pilgrims. This pool is near the Abhayagiri Vihara in Anuradhapura and the purpose of building this in the past was for the bathing of the monks in Abhayagiri.

Kuttam Pokuna, or ‘Twin Pond’ simply suggests the structure of this pond. Of course, it has two ponds, both having the same width. The larger one is 132 feet long, and the small pond around 90 feet long. Also, there are three marvelous staircases that lead to the large pond. All of them are highly decorative, and they exhibit the rich artistic values of the Anuradhapura Era.   

The Samadhi Buddha statue is located in the Mahamevna Garden in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. This statue depicts Lord Buddha meditating. In this meditative posture of ‘ Dyana Mudra ‘, the Buddha sits with his hands on his hips, with his arms folded and his hands turned upside down. The Anuradhapura Samadhi Statue is 7’3″ high and it is a wonderful creation out of a single granite (limestone) stone.

Also, as per researchers, this statue is the best sitting statue in the world. It belongs to the 4th-5th centuries, which means to the Anuradhapura period. Scholars who study the statue are of the opinion that it reflects the Buddha’s unique personality, spiritual superhuman qualities, gentleness, and directness. Also, showing the robe in only one wave exhibits the marvelous creativity and the talents of the artist. The full round serene face radiates great kindness. So, all these amazing features make it a must-see. Thus, if you ever visit Anuradhapura, make sure you visit this place.

Archaeological Museum

Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum is one of the best archaeological museums on the island of Sri Lanka. It is in the old kachcheri building, between the Brazen palace and Ruwanweliseya. Also, the history of the museum dates back to1947, and its establishment is a prime effort of Dr. Senarath Paranavithana. The museum exhibits antiquities and valuables found from various regions of Sri Lanka, and they mainly focus on religious ornaments, and ancient miscellaneous things. 

So, if you are excited to explore the splendor of the Anuradhapura era, this is simply one of the ideal places for you to visit in Anuradhapura.

Reservoirs in Anuradhapura

The irrigation systems during the Anuradhapura Period were remarkable features of the kingdom. As a result, there are a number of reservoirs still existing in Anuradhapura. Their rhythmically flowing waters not only cultivate the fields around but also add a sense of beauty to the city. Hence, they undoubtedly happen to be some of the best places to visit in the city of Anuradhapura. Moreover, you can find below some of the major reservoirs out there.

King Devanampiyatissa who ruled Anuradhapura from 307-267 AD built Thissa wewa. Moreover, this Lake provided water since ancient times to water the Sri Maha Bodhi, and for the drinking purposes of the citizens. That is why even the kings did not use this lake for bathing. Also, during the reign of King Vasabha, a tunnel system popular as Ummagga Jala Mathika carried water from Tissa Lake to Ranmasu Uyana. Further, even in the present, it has a capacity of about 3500-acre feet and it currently provides water to a large number of people around the city.

Nuwarawewa is the largest of the three man-made reservoirs in Anuradhapura. King Watagamini Abaya, popularly known as King Walagamba in the first century built this tank. According to Parker (1909), the capacity of this tank reflects the capacity of the bricks of the Abayagiri Stupa. Also, flowing across peaceful greenery, it offers visitors a perfect place to soothe themselves. Hence, for travellers exploring the city of Anuradhapura, Nuwarawewa tank happens to be one of the best places to visit.

King Dhatusena created Kalawewa, the largest tank built during the Anuradhapura period. The size of this tank which is a combination of Kala and Balalu tanks is 6380 acres. Also, this lake has a water capacity of about 100,000 acre feet and consists of 6 sluices. The length and width of the Kala Wewa outlet which is 64.4 km in circumference is 170 feet and 216 feet respectively. King Parakramabahu the Great who ruled in Polonnaruwa, restored this vast reservoir which made Rajarata self-sufficient even in the past. Further, the two English governors, William Gregory and Arthur Hamilton Gordon, later renovated Kalawewa. Besides, in the past, King Dhatusena created the Jaya Ganga to carry water from Kala Wewa to Tissa Wewa to supply water to the people of Anuradhapura.

Later, under the accelerated Mahaweli movement, a canal named Nawa Jayaganga came up to supply water from Kalawewa to Anuradhapura. As evidence of the existence of high irrigation technology in Ceylon, this design shows the world the amazing ability of the previous kings. Hence, never forget to spend some time by Kalawewa, if you ever travel around Anuradhapura.

Cycling in Anuradhapura

Cycling is one of the best ways to explore the sacred city of Anuradhapura. The Anuradhapura Cycling Tour explores the architectural talents, culture, and prosperity of ancient Sri Lankans. Moreover, it includes visiting historical sites such as Abayagiriya, Jethawana Stupa, Ruwanwelise Dagoba, Samadhi Buddha Statue, Kuttam Pokuna, and Isurumuniya. Its duration is roughly 3 – 4 hours. However, if you wish to, you can even accompany a historical English speaking guide to get an extensive knowledge of the Sacred City of Anuradhapura.

Hiking in Anuradhapura

The Anuradhapura is 80m above sea level and it has a pleasant and tropical climate. Also, its average annual temperature is around 27.3 degrees Celsius. Further, the forestry areas, and the rocks and caves in the surroundings of Anuradhapura, make it one of the best areas for hiking. However, if you are wondering about hiking spots in this splendid city, nothing to worry about! You can find below some of the best places for you to visit in Anuradhapura for a wonderful hiking experience.

Mihintale is popular as the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. According to the chronicles, in 247 BC, Mahinda, an Indian missionary, met King Devanampiyatissa on the rock of Mihinthale and converted Buddhism into the state religion of the island. Thus, this location holds a high religious value. Also, in the present, it is a place of charm with a series of beautiful shrines, stupas, and caves spread across forested hills, usually full of devout, white pilgrims. Owing to these reasons, Mihinthale happens to be a significant attraction related to the history of Sri Lanka. Hence, this is one of the ideal places for you to visit around Anuradhapura.

Around 1800 steps, lead to the summit of Mihinthale, where you can find shrines. Also, this site becomes a major religious center, especially in June. Of course, hundreds of visitors arrive at this site to celebrate Poson, the day that commemorates Sri Lanka receiving Buddhism. Mohinthale is more glamourous and awe-inspiring during this season as well. Hence, we suggest that this Poson season is the best for you to witness the delight of Mihinthale at its best.

Rajagiri Lena

Rocks and caves are anyway quite common in the area of Anuradhapura. However, Rajagiri Cave is located around Mihinthale. These rock caves have been occupied by various monks throughout the period. Monks of great virtue and wisdom used them in the past for shelter, and for their religious activities. Thus, this cave seems to have maintained a Buddhist shrine in the early days. Numerous cave inscriptions dating back to the early Buddhist period can be found in these caves.

A series of steps leading to the top of Rajagiri hill where the Rajagiri cave is located has been carved into the rock. Anyone can reach Ranajagrilena from the entrance to the Kaludiya Pond Complex.

How to visit Anuradhapura?

You can either reach Anuradhapura by bus, by train or even by taxi. However, if you aiming for public transportation , the following information will help you make the right choice.

How to get to Anuradhapura by Train

To reach Anuradhapura, you can easily take trains from Colombo Fort. There are several trains that head to the Jaffna peninsula that pass Anuradhapura. You can choose them even. The journey takes about five and a half hours. 

How to get to Anuradhapura by bus

Local buses that head to Anuradhapura, and go passing Aanurdhapura are common. You can easily find a bus of that sort from Colombo fort, Kurungala, Kandy, Jaffna, Mannar, or any other major cities. The time they take and their cost might vary with the place from where you get the bus.  

The Best Way to Travel around the Ruins of Anuradhapura

There are four main ways to visit the magnificent Anuradhapura Archaeological site. You can find their details below.

Exploring Anuradhapura by Bike

It gives you freedom and versatility, a little more speed, and it is the most affordable of the wheeled options. Best of all, you will experience a sense of wonder and freedom as you travel through the countryside of Sri Lanka. If you were in a car you could see a lot more, including things you didn’t know existed. Renting a bicycle costs around 500LKR or about $ 3. After all, the heat and effort is the only drawback. However, you can break your trip through Anuradhapura into pieces.

Exploring Anuradhapura by Car

If you have the money to spend and know where to rent a car this is definitely the best option. However, we can assume that it is much more expensive than any other option. Yet, you will be able to see the ruins faster and more comfortably, and then take the fun of cycling through the rural areas of Sri Lanka a bit further. It will surely be delightful to plan your journey that way. Think about it if you find it interesting!

What is the best time to visit Anuradhapura?

The best time to visit Anuradhapura is from April to September. The warmest times of the year in Anuradhapura are May, June and July, when the average temperature changes slightly. The highest is 35.3 C in late May; the night temperature is approximately 26 C.

The Bottom Line

Anuradhapura is simply a living city, and the ruins of Anuradhapura makes it a place of pilgrimage for the devout. The vast network of 40 square kilometers of ancient Buddhist temples, monasteries, and shrines has made it a city with a bunch of places to visit. Thus, Anuradhapura is indeed one of the greatest destinations of worship on earth. All these features have even made it one of the eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka. Therefore, the Historic City of Anuradhapura is an essential stop on any trip to Sri Lanka. So, never miss the essence of the splendor of this wonderful city, if you arrive in Sri Lanka!

Happy and Safe Travelling!  

You may be excited for a tranquil beach vacation along a gorgeous stretch of golden sand. If not, you might be thrilled to experience the exhilaration and thrill of the incredible wildlife among the breathtaking scenery. Going further, you can even be anticipating learning about the splendor of the historical tales entwined with the island's customs. Similarly, your dream could be anywhere in these boundaries or outside of them. Nevertheless, we cherish your dream and pledge to turn it into a reality. Indeed, the Customized Tour Packages we provide serve as evidence that we honor our commitments.

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ANURADHAPURA TOURISM | TOURIST PLACES TO VISIT & TRAVEL GUIDE TO ANURADHAPURA

• Anuradhapura Overview
• Top 15 Places to Visit in Anuradhapura
• 3 Best Anuradhapura Tour Packages
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About Anuradhapura

Country: india | state: sri lanka, #6 of 10 places to visit in sri lanka | places to visit in india, ideal trip duration: 1-2 days, base station: anuradhapura, nearest city to anuradhapura: anuradhapura, colombo (202 kms), best time to visit anuradhapura: june to september & december to february, peak season: june to september, anuradhapura weather: summer: summer: max - 34°c and min - 22°c winter: max - 28°c and min - 19°c.

At a distance of 66 km from Dambulla, 75 km from Sigiriya, 106 km from Trincomalee, 107 km from Polonnaruwa, 139 km from Kandy, 194 km from Jaffna and 202 km from Colombo, Anuradhapura is an ancient city in Sri Lanka. It is the capital city of North Central Province and also the capital of Anuradhapura district. It is the most popular heritage place in Sri Lanka and among the must include destinations in Sri Lanka Tour Packages . Located on the banks of Malvathu River, Anuradhapura is the first ancient capital of Sri Lanka. The city was the center of Theravada Buddhism for many centuries. Famous for its well-preserved ruins of an ancient Sinhala civilization, Anuradhapura is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and one of the eight World Heritage Sites of Sri Lanka. The city is also home to one of the largest and most sacred Bodhi trees in Sri Lanka, believed to be a descendant of the original Bodhi tree where Buddha got enlightenment. Anuradhapura was first established by Anuradha, a follower of Prince Vijaya, the founder of the Sinhala race. Later in 377 BC, King Pandukabhaya made it his capital and developed it into a prosperous city. It was the royal capital for 119 successive Singhalese Kings and lasted for about 1500 years. Anuradhapura came into prominence after Buddhism was introduced to the island in the 3rd Century BC during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa. Anuradhapura continued to be the seat of power from the 4th Century BC to 11th Century AD. During this period, there were intermittent invasions by armies from India, but it remained the stronghold of the King of Lanka until King Vjayabahu I declared Polonnaruwa was the capital city in 1070. Later, the city was abandoned and overrun by the jungle until it was rediscovered by the British in the 19th century and subsequently became a Buddhist pilgrimage center. Currently, the city is the headquarters of the archaeological survey of Sri Lanka. The historic city of Anuradhapura is an essential stop on any Sri Lanka Tour. The vast network of ancient Buddhist temples, monasteries, and places of worship which cover over 40 sq. km has made it a sacred site to Buddhists around the world. Mirisaveti, Ruwanwelisaya, Abhayagiri, Jetavanarama, Thuparama, and Lankarama are the popular monasteries in Anuradhapura. Apart from these, the most popular tourist attractions in Anuradhapura are the sacred Maha Bodhi tree, Lovamahapaya or Brazen Palace, Archeological Museum, Isurumuniya Vihara, Rathnaprasada, Royal Palace and many more. Vesak and Poson Festival are the popular festivals celebrated in Anuradhapura. Also known as Poson Poya Day, Poson Festival is celebrated to commemorate the introduction of Buddhism in Sri Lanka in the third century BC, thus it is of great historical and religious significance. It is the second most important festival for Buddhists right after the Vesak. Many choose to climb the many steps to the top of the Mihintale rock in Mihintale, which is popular as the main center and landmark in Anuradhapura during the festival. Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Colombo is the nearest international airport which is about 171 km from Anuradhapura. It has well flight connectivity with India and other parts of Southeast Asia, Europe, Australia, the Middle East, and the United States. Anuradhapura Railway Station has regular trains from Colombo, Vavuniya, and Galle. Anuradhapura is well connected by bus with Colombo, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, Trincomalee, and Kandy. Anuradhapura has tons of great accommodation choices. The choice of hotels and guesthouses in Anuradhapura is a real treat and there is truly something to suit everyone from budget backpacker to mid-range seekers and those who enjoy a touch of luxury. Anuradhapura is a perfect holiday destination for visitors almost all year-round. However, June to September and December - February are the best seasons to visit Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka. During these months, the weather is dry and comfortable for day trips. Tourists keep off from Anuradhapura in March when the weather is too hot and humid and also avoid visiting Anuradhapura from October to November when it rains significantly.

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Nearest Airport: Colombo - Bandaranaike Airport (171 Kms)

Direct flights to colombo, nearest train station: anuradhapura (0 kms), direct trains to anuradhapura, nearest bus station: anuradhapura bus station (3 kms), direct buses to anuradhapura, distance chart, distance chart & driving directions to anuradhapura, top 10 places to visit in anuradhapura, sri maha bodhi temple.

#1 of 15 Places to Visit in Anuradhapura

At a distance of 1.5 km from Anuradhapura Railway Station, Sri Maha Bodhi is a sacred tree standing tall in the Mahamewna Gardens in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It is one of the popular places of pilgrimage for Buddhists from around the world and among the prime places to visit in Anuradhapura as part of Sri Lanka Packages. Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple is the center of tourist attraction in Anuradhapura. Buddhists from all over the world visit this place because it enshrines the great souvenir of the past and pride of the present, the sacred Bodhi tree. This is the sapling of the original Peepal Tree at Buddha Gaya, India in whose shelter Gautama Buddha attained supreme enlightenment. As per the history, the sapling was brought to Sri Lanka by Buddhist nun Sanghamitra, the daughter of Emperor Asoka of India during the 3rd Century BC. In 288 BC, it was planted by King Devanampiya Tissa in the Mahamewna Park in Anuradhapura. The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, as it became known, has since .....

Ruwanwelisaya

#2 of 15 Places to Visit in Anuradhapura

At a distance of 1 km from Maha Bodhi and 2 km from Anuradhapura Railway Station, Ruwanwelisaya is a Buddhist stupa situated in the ancient town of Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka. It is one of the popular places of pilgrimage for Buddhists and among the prime places to visit in Anuradhapura as part of Sri Lanka Tour Packages. A UNESCO designated site, the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa is one of the largest stupas or dagobas in the heritage city of Anuradhapura. This magnificent stupa was built in 140 BC by King Dutugamunu, who was hailed to be the hero of the island. It is also called as the Maha Stupa or Ratnapali Stupa or Swarnamali Stupa. It is said that two quarts or one Drona of the Gauthama Buddha's relics are enshrined in the stupa, which is the largest collection of his relics anywhere. This is one of the 'Solosmasthana' (the 16 places of veneration) and the 'Atamasthana' (the 8 places of veneration in the ancient sacred city of Anuradhapura). The stupa was a ruin in the 19th century and .....

Abhayagiri Monastery

#3 of 15 Places to Visit in Anuradhapura

At a distance of 5 km from Anuradhapura Railway Station, Abhayagiri Vihara is an ancient monastery situated in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It is one of the most extensive ruins in the world and among the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage places in Sri Lanka. Located at the north end of Anuradhapura, the Abhayagiri Vihara monastic complex was established in the 2nd century BC by King Valagamba in the celebration of his victory against the Indian Chola invaders. The monastery was donated to a Buddhist monk Thera Mahatissa as a token of gratitude for the moral and material support extended to the king, at a time of adversity, in exile building an army to regain his kingdom. It was once housed as many as 5,000 monks from around the world and was a thriving center of Buddhist philosophies for nearly 600 years. The monastery flourished under the patronage of King Mahasena (AD 276-303). Encompasses over 500 acres, this monastery is encircled by great walls and containing elaborate stupas, .....

Thuparama Dagoba

#4 of 15 Places to Visit in Anuradhapura

At a distance of 600 m from Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba and 3 km from Anuradhapura Railway Station, Thuparamaya is a Buddhist stupa in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Located in Mahamewna Park, it is one of the oldest stupas in Sri Lanka and among the prime places to visit as part of the Anuradhapura Tour Packages. The Thuparamaya Stupa was built by King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd century BC and is the earliest dagoba to be constructed on the island after the introduction of Buddhism. The stupa was renovated by King Aggabodhi II in the 7th century. It is believed to enshrine the collar bone relic of Lord Buddha. The dagoba had been destroyed several times by invading forces and through natural erosion. The last recorded renovation in history was carried out in1862 AD. The name Thuparamaya comes from 'stupa' and 'aramaya' which stands for a residential complex for monks. This studded Dagoba was built in the shape of a heap of paddy but after several attacks and renovations, it is now found .....

Jetavanaramaya Dagoba

#5 of 15 Places to Visit in Anuradhapura

At a distance of 1.5 km from Maha Bodhi Temple and 2 km from Anuradhapura Railway Station, Jetavanaramaya is an ancient Buddhist stupa situated in the sacred city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Located in the Mahamewna Park, it is one of the oldest stupas in Anuradhapura and among the sacred places to visit in Anuradhapura while holidaying in Sri Lanka. At 400 feet, Jetavanaramaya was the tallest stupa in Sri Lanka and the third tallest ancient structure in the world when it was built by King Mahasena of Anuradhapura (273-301). He initiated the construction of the stupa following the destruction of the Mahavihara and was completed by his son Maghavanna I. It is believed that a part of a sash or belt tied by the Buddha is preserved here. The structure is significant in the island's history as it represents the tensions within the Theravada and Mahayana sects of Buddhism. Later, King Parakramabahu in the 12th century rebuilt this stupa to the current height of 232 feet, a reduction from .....

Isurumuniya

#6 of 15 Places to Visit in Anuradhapura

At a distance of 2 km from Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi and 3 km from Anuradhapura Railway Station, Isurumuniya is a Buddhist temple located in Anuradhapura. Situated on the side of Tissa Wewa, it is one of the popular historical monuments in Anuradhapura. Originally known as Meghagiri Vihara, the Isurumuniya Viharaya was constructed during the reign of Devanampiya Tissa as a monastic complex for 500 high caste children and then evolved to becoming a temple owing to its sanctity. Thereafter it was renovated by King Kasyapa (473 - 491 AD) who renamed it 'Boupulvan Kasubgiri Radmaha Vehera'. As per the mythology, this is the place where Pulasthi Rishi was live and the place of which King Ravana was born. This place has a written history of about 5000 years. This charming rock temple was built partly into a cave with a lovely pool in the front and a boulder forming the rear wall. A small stupa was built on this cliff during a later period. At the picturesque entrance to Isurumuniya, a .....

Mirisaweti Dagoba

#7 of 15 Places to Visit in Anuradhapura

At a distance of 1 km from Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi and 3 km from Anuradhapura Railway Station, Mirisawetiya is a Buddhist vihara located in Anuradhapura. Situated along the banks of Tissa Wewa, it is yet another tourist and religious spot in the ancient capital of the country, Anuradhapura. Mirisaweti Dagoba was built by King Dutugamunu (161-137 BC), after defeating King Elara and was the first monument built by the king following his consecration. The location of the great stupa, according to the great historical narrative, Mahavamsa, is of exceptional significance. The story behind the creation of this splendid stupa is that after the king had successfully completed the war with the Cholas, the sceptre that contained the Relic of Buddha was stored by the king in a place before leaving for the water festival at Tissa Wewa. When he returned, he found the sceptre to be immovable. He then decided to provide shelter to this relic to safeguard it. Having completed the construction .....

Archaeological Museum - Anuradhapura

#8 of 15 Places to Visit in Anuradhapura

At a distance of 1 km from Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi and 3 km from Anuradhapura Railway Station, Archaeological Museum is a museum located in Anuradhapura. Situated on the banks of Tissa Wewa, it is one of the archaeological museums of Sri Lanka and among the prime places to visit in Anuradhapura. Also known as Puravidu Bhavana, the Archaeological Museum in Anuradhapura was established in 1947 under the pioneering effort of Dr. Senarath Paranavitana. This is situated in the old kachcheri building between the Brazon Palace and Ruwanwelisaya. This is one of the oldest museums in the Cultural Triangle area and it has been proposed to name as the National Museum of the Department of Archaeology of Sri Lanka. The museum has an interesting collection of artwork, carvings and everyday items from Anuradhapura and other historic sites around Sri Lanka. The museum displays artifacts connected with ancient capital located at Polonnaruwa which are worth watching, especially the miniature models .....

Brazen Palace / Lovamahapaya

#9 of 15 Places to Visit in Anuradhapura

At a distance of 1 km from Ruwanwelisaya and 2 km from Anuradhapura Railway Station, Lovamahapaya is an ancient palace in Anuradhapura. Situated between Ruwanwelisaya and Sri Maha Bodhi, it is one of the popular historical monuments in Anuradhapura. Also known as Lohaprasada, the Lovamahapaya is a 2000-year-old palace constructed by King Dutugemunu in 2nd century BC. At first, the King built this as a place for Buddhist monks who assembled on 'Poya' days to recite the 'Pirith' but later it was transformed into a massive building which contains nearly 1000 rooms for them to rest. It had 1600 stone columns that supported nine stories. In ancient times, the building is supposed to have included a refectory, assembly hall and chapter house. It is also known as the Brazen Place because of the bronze tiles that were used on its roof. It is said that it took six years for the construction of the building. The Brazen Palace is said to have been a beautifully detailed and jeweled .....

#10 of 15 Places to Visit in Anuradhapura

At a distance of 14 km from Anuradhapura, Mihintale is a Buddhist pilgrimage site and religious complex situated near Anuradhapura. It is one of the popular pilgrimage places in Anuradhapura and among the must-visit places as part of Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle Tour. Mihintale is revered as the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. According to legend, it was at Mihintale that the Indian Buddhist monk Mahinda Thera met and converted King Devanampiya Tissa to Buddhism in 247 BC. Mahinda was the son of the great Mauryan emperor Asoka, sent by his father to bring the word of the Buddha's teachings to Sri Lanka. Mihintale, literally Mahinda's Mountain, eventually became the cradle of Buddhism and Sinhalese culture. With the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, Mihintale Mountain began to serve as a residential area for the venerable monks headed by Arahath Mahinda Mahathera. But soon, with the royal patronage, the sanctuary housed a multitude of monastic buildings, stupas, uposathgharas, .....

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Anuradhapura

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Heritage Sri Lanka Tour - Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kandy & More

Ramayana Tour of Sri Lanka for 6 Nights

Cultural Trip to Sri Lanka - Visit to Temple of Sacred Tooth Relic

Magnificent 9 days in sri lanka, complete sri lanka holiday package in 12 days, sri lanka round tours 15 nights 16 days, anuradhapura travel essentials.

Ideal duration: 2 days

Best Time: April and September Read More

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"Rejuvenating getaway!"

Anuradhapura tourism.

Anuradhapura, an ancient city nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka's North Central Province, stands as a living testament to the island's rich cultural and historical legacy. Revered as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Anuradhapura served as the capital of Sri Lanka for over a millennium, bearing witness to the rise and fall of several ancient kingdoms. It is known for its vast dagobas or brick stupas, ancient ponds and pools, and magnificent temples. 

Anuradhapura is not just historically important but also religiously significant, being a center of Buddhist pilgrimage and learning. The city's UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sacred City sprawls across an expansive area, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into ancient Sri Lanka's grandeur. Towering stupas, intricately carved monoliths, remnants of palaces, and colossal reservoirs speak volumes about the advanced civilization that thrived here centuries ago. At the heart of Anuradhapura's allure lies its spiritual significance. The city embraces the Sri Maha Bodhi, a revered fig tree believed to have sprouted from a cutting of the Bodhi tree in India, under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. This sacred tree, enclosed within a serene garden, draws pilgrims and tourists alike, fostering an atmosphere of tranquility and reverence. Authentic Buddhist traditions, archaeological ruins, lavish palaces, traditional monasteries, and informative museums define the grandeur of Anuradhapura. Even though it is a large town, Anuradhapura gives the feel of being in a village. With its well-preserved cultural sites, ponds, and monuments, Anuradhapura is a well-established tourist attraction in Sri Lanka. Tourists visit this town for a rejuvenating getaway, to seek peace, and to satiate their inquisitiveness.

Must Know Before You Travel to Anuradhapura

• Entrance Fees:  Foreign Adults (Age 12 years and above 12 years): USD 25 Foreign children (Age 6 years and between 6 years to 12 years): USD 12.5U Foreign infant and toddler (Bellow 6 years): Free entry -This ticket covers only 5 large monuments and will not include entry to Isurumuniya, Srimabodiya, and Mihinthalaya -The Mahavihara Complex is free to visit for all. It comprises Sri Maha Bodhi, Ruvanvelisaya Dagoba, The Brazen Palace and Thuparam Dagoba - Ticket for Isurumuniya Complex is LKR 200 per person
• Where to Buy Tickets: The tickets can be purchased at the archaeological museum
• Timings: Ruins are open daily from 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
• There is no actual entrance to the historical city, so the tickets are generally checked at random on the road
• Getting Around: The old city is best explored on tuk-tuk with a driver or guide. Many people also choose to bicycle around the temples. Most hotels offer bicycle rental. 
• Visit Early: Make sure to visit early morning, around 6:00 AM or 7:00 AM to avoid the tourist crowd
• Where to Stay: Choose a hotel near the archaeological complex/old city if you want to explore on bicycle
• Anuradhapura sees a huge crowd every month on poya day (full moon). If looking for a quiet experience and less crowd, avoid visiting on this day
• Dress Moderately: Make sure to cover your shoulders and knees since most places in Anuradhapura are religious sites
• Bring Socks: Since you will have to take off your shoes at each site and the ground is generally very hot for the most part of the day, carry socks with you

Places To Visit In Anuradhapura

Sri Maha Bodhi

Lovamahapaya

Ruwanweliseya

Thuparamaya

Archaeological Museum, Anuradhapura

Jetavanaramaya Monastery

Top Hotels In Anuradhapura

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More on Anuradhapura Travel

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