Anuradhapura · North Central Province
Anuradhapura
Sri Lanka's first great capital and a sacred city.
For more than a thousand years this was the island's capital, and one of the great cities of the ancient world. Huge brick stupas — some among the tallest structures of their time — still rise above the trees.
At its heart grows the Sri Maha Bodhi, grown from a cutting of the tree under which the Buddha found enlightenment and said to be the oldest planted tree in the world with a known history. Pilgrims in white bring flowers here every day.
Don't miss in Anuradhapura
- Sri Maha Bodhi sacred tree
- Ruwanwelisaya and Jetavanaramaya stupas
- Twin Ponds (Kuttam Pokuna)
- Evening ceremonies among pilgrims
Places & Sites to Visit in Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura Sacred City
Walk barefoot among towering white stupas and rock temples, joining pilgrims dressed in white in one of Asia's oldest cities.
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
The sacred Bo tree, grown from a cutting of the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment.
Ruwanwelisaya
A great white stupa built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BC.
Abhayagiriya
A huge monastery complex and stupa in the northern part of the city.
Jetavanaramaya
Once one of the tallest structures in the ancient world, built of brick.
Thuparamaya
Regarded as the first stupa built in Sri Lanka.
Isurumuniya
A rock temple known for its carving 'The Lovers'.
Kuttam Pokuna
Twin stone bathing ponds of the ancient monastery.
Samadhi Buddha Statue
A seated Buddha statue in meditation pose.
Lovamahapaya
The ruins of the 'Brazen Palace', with its forest of stone pillars.
Mirisawetiya
A large stupa built by King Dutugemunu.
Moonstone at Mahasen's Palace
A finely carved semicircular stone step.
Activities & Experiences in Anuradhapura
Cycling
Pedal between ruins in Polonnaruwa or along quiet village roads, waving back at children on their way to school.
Anuradhapura Guided Heritage Walk
A guided walk around the sacred city's main stupas and monasteries.
Evening Visit to the Sri Maha Bodhi
Join pilgrims at the sacred Bo tree in the evening.
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