Anuradhapura is an ancient city in Sri Lanka. Serving as the first capital during the Sinhala kingdoms, it remained the political and cultural center for over 1,300 years, witnessing the rise and fall of Sri Lanka’s ancient dynasties. The city is also the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and continues to be a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists. In 1982, Anuradhapura was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

If you wish to explore the soul and origins of Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura is a must-visit destination. Wander through the vast 40-square-kilometer ancient city, stroll among ancient Bodhi trees, massive stupa ruins, and exquisitely crafted palace remains, and witness firsthand the remarkable achievements of the ancient Sinhala kingdoms in architecture, art, and water management.

Are you ready to embark on a journey that spans over two thousand years of history?

 

 

1.Weather

Anuradhapura is hot throughout the year, with an average temperature of around 30°C, and experiences two main seasons: dry and rainy.

The best time to visit is from September to October, when the weather is relatively cooler. The southwest monsoon brings the rainy season from May to August, and the northeast monsoon from November to February of the following year, with frequent showers. Be sure to wear sunscreen and bring plenty of water when traveling.

 

2.Popular Attractions

Sri Maha Bodhi Tree: The oldest Bodhi tree in the world, it is said that Princess Sangamitta, daughter of Emperor Ashoka, brought a branch from the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment and planted it in Sri Lanka over 2,000 years ago. It is the most sacred Buddhist relic in Sri Lanka after the Sacred Tooth Relic. Today, beneath its lush canopy, countless devotees come to pay their respects, seeking their own faith amid the tree’s millennia-spanning vitality.

Lovamahapaya: Opposite the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree stands a fenced area with the ruins of a grand palace. It’s Lovamahapaya, also known as the Brazen Palace or Lohaprasada. From a distance, you can see 1,600 stone pillars surrounding a central golden-domed structure. Originally, these pillars supported a massive copper-tiled dome, with the entire building adorned in gold, silver, and gemstones. This magnificent nine-story palace could accommodate over 900 monks and visitors. Over the centuries, it has suffered multiple cycles of destruction and reconstruction. Today, visitors can only glimpse a fragment of its former grandeur through the dense rows of stone pillars.

Ruwanwelisaya Stupa: One of the landmarks of the ancient city, this massive white stupa can be seen from many parts of Anuradhapura. It stands on a three-tiered base, with a large hemispherical dome at its bottom. Originally, the stupa reached a height of 107 meters, but after damage over time, the current structure is about 55 meters tall. Against the backdrop of the blue sky, it creates a striking visual impact.

Thuparamaya: The oldest stupa in Sri Lanka, it is said to enshrine Buddha’s right collarbone. After multiple reconstructions, the stupa now has a bell-shaped design and stands on a raised platform. It reaches 17 meters in height with a base diameter of 18 meters. Dozens of granite pillars surround the structure; these carved pillars once supported the stupa’s roof, though the original dome no longer exists.

Jetavanaramaya: Once the tallest and largest stupa in the ancient city, this brick structure still retains its original, ancient appearance. It is said that the stupa originally stood 152 meters tall, while the remaining structure now reaches about 70 meters. Inside the stupa, inscriptions of the Mahavamsa written in Sanskrit on gold plates, dating back to around the 9th century, were discovered—an extremely valuable cultural treasure.

Kuttam Pokuna (twin ponds or pools): Consisting of one large and one small pond, they are prime examples of the advanced hydraulic engineering of the ancient Sinhalese.

Eth Pokuna (Elephant Pond): The largest man-made pond built in ancient Sri Lanka, it is reportedly designed specifically for bathing elephants.

 

3.Transportation Guide

From Colombo, you can take a train or bus to Anuradhapura, enjoying beautiful scenery along the way. From Kandy, hiring a private car is a flexible and convenient option.

Private Car: The attractions in Anuradhapura are spread across a vast sacred area. Hiring a car allows you to move quickly and comfortably between sites, making it the most effortless and comfortable way to explore.

Bicycle: Many hotels offer bicycle rental services. Cycling is a fun and flexible way to explore, allowing you to soak in the ancient and solemn atmosphere of the sacred city at your own pace. However, it can be physically demanding, so you may choose to cycle only part of the route.

On Foot: Since the ruins of Anuradhapura cover a large area and visits take time, walking is not recommended under high temperatures. If you plan to walk, be sure to prepare in advance: wear lightweight, breathable, and sun-protective clothing, along with comfortable shoes, and plan your route wisely to avoid exhaustion.

 

4.Recommended Areas to Stay

New Town Area: Located close to the ancient city ruins, this area offers convenient transportation and well-developed facilities. Restaurants and shops are concentrated here, with a wide range of accommodation options. It’s the top choice for most travelers, offering easy access to the ancient city along with modern conveniences.

Near the Train Station: This area provides excellent transportation links, making it convenient for travelers who plan to take trains to other cities or attractions.

Near the Lakes: These areas offer beautiful surroundings and fresh air, with peaceful lakeside views that create a serene and relaxing atmosphere.