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Ancient Cities Cultural & Heritage Temples & Shrines Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura

Heart of Sri Lanka’s ancient kingdom

About Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka

Anuradhapura was the first capital of Sri Lanka and ruled the country from the 4th century BC to the 11th century AD. It is one of the oldest continuously lived cities in Asia. The city is well known for its ancient reservoirs, large dagobas, and ruins of palaces and monasteries. Important places include Sri Maha Bodhi, which grew from a branch of the sacred tree in India, and great stupas such as Ruwanwelisaya and Jetavanaramaya. The sacred city of Anuradhapura is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains an important religious and historical center in Sri Lanka.

Meditation, reflecting peace and serenity.

Best Time

May to September

Avg Temp

27°C

Elevation

81m

Distance

4-5hrs from Colombo

Ancient Ruins Buddhist Site UNESCO Site Sacred Bodhi Tree Historic Stupas

Highlights

What to watch in Anuradhapura - Top attractions and things to do

Sri Maha Bodhi

Sacred Tree Ancient Heritage

Sri Maha Bodhi is the oldest recorded living tree in the world with a known planting date. It was grown from a branch of the sacred Bodhi tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment

Anuradhapura

3rd Century BC

1 Hour Visit

Easy Access

Open Daytime

Ruwanwelisaya

Historic Stupa Buddhist Site

Ruwanwelisaya is one of the largest and most sacred stupas in Sri Lanka. It was built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BC and is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site

Anuradhapura

2nd Century BC

1 Hour Visit

Easy Walk

Open Daily

Jetavanaramaya

Ancient Stupa Buddhist Site

Jetavanaramaya is one of the tallest ancient brick stupas in the world. It was built by King Mahasena in the 3rd century AD and is an important religious landmark in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura

3rd Century AD

1–2 Hour Visit

Moderate Walk

Open Daily

Anuradhapura Sacred City Cycling Ride

Cycling Tour Historic Sites

The Anuradhapura Sacred City Cycling Ride lets you explore ancient ruins and sacred sites by bike. It is an easy and fun way to see the city’s historical monuments and Buddhist landmarks

Anuradhapura

2–3 Hours

Easy

Guided Route

Daytime Activity

Anuradhapura Museum

Historical Artifacts Museum

The Anuradhapura Museum displays artifacts from the city’s long history. It helps visitors understand the ancient civilization, religion, and culture of Anuradhapura.

Anuradhapura

1–2 Hours

Easy

Entry Fee Applies

Open Daytime