Things to Do in Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, renowned for its well-preserved ruins of an ancient Sinhala civilization. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major pilgrimage destination for Buddhists.
The city is dotted with stupas, monasteries, and ancient reservoirs, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural and religious history of Sri Lanka. The surrounding area is peaceful, with many sites set in lush greenery.
Things to Do and Top Attractions in Anuradhapura
Sri Maha Bodhi
The Sri Maha Bodhi is a sacred fig tree believed to have grown from a cutting of the original Bodhi tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. It is one of the oldest living trees with a known planting date, dating back over 2,200 years.
This site is a major pilgrimage destination and is surrounded by protective walls and shrines.
Ruwanwelisaya Stupa
Ruwanwelisaya is a magnificent stupa built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BCE. It is considered a marvel of ancient engineering and a symbol of Sri Lankan Buddhism.
The stupa is large and white, dominating the skyline and attracting many visitors and worshippers.
Jetavanaramaya Stupa
Jetavanaramaya is one of the tallest ancient stupas in the world, originally standing at about 122 meters. It was built by King Mahasena in the 3rd century CE.
The site includes ruins of monastic buildings and is an impressive example of ancient construction techniques.
Abhayagiri Monastery
Abhayagiri was a major monastery complex and a center of Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism. It was one of the largest monastic complexes in ancient Sri Lanka.
Visitors can explore the remains of stupas, meditation halls, and other structures within the extensive archaeological site.
Isurumuniya Temple
Isurumuniya is famous for its rock carvings and sculptures, including the iconic 'Lovers' rock carving. The temple dates back to the 3rd century BCE.
It is a serene site with beautiful carvings that reflect the artistic heritage of ancient Sri Lanka.
Thuparamaya Stupa
Thuparamaya is considered the oldest stupa in Sri Lanka, built by King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd century BCE.
It is believed to enshrine the collarbone relic of the Buddha and is an important religious site.
Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)
These ancient bathing tanks are an excellent example of the advanced hydraulic engineering of the Anuradhapura period.
The ponds were used by monks for bathing and are beautifully constructed with stone steps and walls.
Samadhi Buddha Statue
The Samadhi Buddha is a highly revered statue depicting the Buddha in a state of meditation. It is considered a masterpiece of ancient Sri Lankan sculpture.
The statue is housed in the Isurumuniya Temple complex and attracts many visitors for its serene expression and artistic detail.
Lovamahapaya (Brazen Palace)
Lovamahapaya was once a massive nine-story building used as a residence for monks. It was known for its bronze roof, hence the name Brazen Palace.
Today, only the foundation remains, but it is an important archaeological site showcasing the scale of ancient monastic architecture.
Naka Vihara
Naka Vihara is a smaller stupa located near the main sacred sites. It is known for its peaceful surroundings and historical significance.
The site is less crowded, offering a quiet place for reflection and exploration.
"Key Takeaways"
Visitors to Anuradhapura can expect to explore a vast archaeological park featuring some of the oldest and most significant Buddhist monuments in the world.
The city offers a unique blend of spiritual significance and historical intrigue, with numerous temples, dagobas (stupas), and ancient ruins to discover.