Trips and Tours to AnuradhapuraTake a guided tour of this ancient city and discover is deeply spiritual connections

About Anuradhapura

One of the most fascinating ancient cities of Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura is a sprawling complex of towering dagobas, ancient pools and decaying temples. You will also find the Sacred Bo-Tree, brought to Sri Lanka as a sapling from the tree under which Buddha is said to have become enlightened, at over 2,200 years old it is the worlds oldest historically documented tree.

Excavations of Anuradhapura have unearthed jewellery, sculptures, coins and other rare artefacts including seven Buddhist scriptures etched into sheets of beaten gold. Soaring towards the sky, the magnificent dagobas reached monumental proportions during the period of the kingdom of Anuradhapura, which lasted for about 1,500 years, until the 10th century AD.

Is Anuradhapura worth visiting? - What to expect

Thuparamaya temple
Thuparamaya temple

Visiting Anuradhapura on a guided tour is one of the best ways to uncover Sri Lanka's rich history and religious heritage. As one of the ancient capitals of the country, it boasts a plethora of well-preserved ruins, stupas, and monastic buildings that date back over two millennia. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, reflecting its significant historical and cultural value. The city is home to sprawling archaeological sites set against the backdrop of lush greenery. The sacred Bodhi Tree stands as a central spiritual attraction and draws in hundreds of pilgrims and tourists alike. Our expert local guides will provide you with invaluable insight into the history of the various sites and their spiritual significance. Making a guided tour truly the best way to explore Anuradhapura.

The city is dotted with massive stupas, such as the Jetavanarama and Ruwanwelisaya, which are among the tallest ancient structures in the world. These stupas, along with numerous other dagobas, were built to enshrine relics of the Buddha and serve as a testament to the engineering prowess of ancient Sri Lankan civilizations. Exploring Anuradhapura, you will encounter intricately carved stone structures, like the Moonstone and Guard Stones, that offer insights into the artistic achievements of the past.

The atmosphere in Anuradhapura is serene and reflective, as it remains a living pilgrimage site with numerous monasteries still in use. Monks in saffron robes and devotees offering prayers and flowers at various shrines create a peaceful, reverent ambiance. In summary, a visit to Anuradhapura immerses you in the spiritual and historical heart of Sri Lanka, offering a unique blend of ancient architectural marvels, serene natural beauty, and a deeply rooted cultural heritage.

Anuradhapura tourist places

Ruwanwelisaya stupa
Ruwanwelisaya stupa

Ruwanwelisaya stupa

If you are looking for a profound spiritual experience, then visiting the Ruwanwelisaya stupa is exactly what you’re looking for. This majestic structure stands as one of the most significant and revered monuments in Sri Lanka. Built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BCE, the stupa is renowned for its massive, gleaming white dome, which rises prominently against the sky. Surrounded by a tranquil courtyard and lush greenery, Ruwanwelisaya draws pilgrims and tourists who come to pay homage, meditate, and admire its architectural grandeur. The stupa's intricate carvings and serene ambiance create a sense of awe and reverence, making it a highlight of any visit to Anuradhapura.

Buddhist prayer flags
Buddhist prayer flags

Mahamevnawa Gardens

Visiting the Mahamevnawa Gardens is a wonderful spiritually enriching experience. These ancient gardens, established by King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd century BCE, are a significant site for Buddhist pilgrims and history enthusiasts. Within the tranquil expanse, you'll find the sacred Bodhi Tree, a 2,200-year-old tree said to have been grown for a sapling taking from the tree Buddha is said to have reached enlightenment under. You will also find numerous stupas, and ancient monasteries that reflect the deep religious heritage of the area. The gardens' peaceful atmosphere, lush greenery, and historical significance provide a contemplative retreat where one can connect with the profound legacy of Sri Lankan Buddhism.

Ruins in Anuradhapura

Lovamahapaya

Lovamahapaya, also known as the Brazen Palace, is an ancient structure, originally a nine-story building, that served as a monastic residence and an assembly hall for Buddhist monks. The palace gets its nickname the Brazen Palace because its roof was originally covered in bronze tiles. Although now in ruins, the site is marked by 1,600 stone pillars that hint at its former grandeur, making it an impressive sight to behold. The Lovamahapaya stands near the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree and Ruwanwelisaya stupa, making it an integral part of the sacred city’s spiritual landscape. Its historical significance and architectural remnants offer a glimpse into the sophisticated monastic life and advanced engineering skills of ancient Sri Lanka.

When is the best time to visit Anuradhapura?

The best time to visit Anuradhapura is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to September. During these months, the dry weather is perfect for exploring the ancient ruins and taking part in outdoor activities, as there is less rainfall and lower humidity. This gives visitors the opportunity to explore all the beauty of Anuradhapura comfortably.

Conclusion

Visiting Anuradhapura is a must for anyone interesting in Buddhism and the history of spirituality in Sri Lanka. The ancient city offers a unique glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich historical and cultural tapestry. As you wander through the ancient ruins, marvel at the majestic stupas, and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of sacred temples, you will feel a profound connection to the past. The city’s intricate carvings, towering structures, and tranquil reservoirs not only showcase the architectural brilliance of ancient civilizations but also inspire a deep sense of peace and reverence. With so much to see and so many significant sites in one place, visiting Anuradhapura on one of our guided tours guarantees the most immersive and enriching visit to this ancient city.

The best places to visit in Sri Lanka

Ancient tradition meets modern-day. Lush greenery meets thriving city life. Asian culture meets European influence. In a country packed full of contrasts, we've handpicked our highlights, from the Lion Rock fortress of Sigiriya to the historic cave temples of Dambulla.

Dambulla

Ancient Buddhist temples located in cavernous caves, Dambulla is a unique attraction that we visit on all of our tours to the country. Boasting intricate carvings and Buddha statues dating back hundreds of years.

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