Ancient Capital of Sri Lanka Anuradhapura

Sri Lanka

Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, famous for its well-preserved ruins of an ancient Sinhala civilization. Located in the heart of the Cultural Triangle, this ancient city was documented as the first kingdom of Sri Lanka, dating to the 4th century BC. It was during the peak of this kingdom that Buddhism became the established religion in the country, which is signified by the dominating structure of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya along with other temples and ruins dotted around the historic town. Stroll along with the remnants of the past or cycle around the ancient kingdom instead.

Top Attractions in Anuradhapura
Jungle

Kalawawa National Park

Kalawawa National Park is home to a significant concentration of tuskers, a magnificent sighting to experience.
Heritage Site

Archaeological Museum

A visit here will feel like a trip as you slowly settle the secrets of Sri Lanka’s ancient past. You’ll also be able to visit many religious artifacts here.
Popular

Lowamahapaya

King Dutugamunu built a metal place nine stories high with hundreds of rooms. This is an eye-catching place.
Popular

Mirisawatiya Dagaba

More than 2100 years old, Mirisawetiya is one of the oldest Dagabas in Sri Lanka. Made by the great king Dutugamunu, this Maginficant model is a must-see for any visitor to the sacred city of Anuradhapura.

Ritigala Strict Nature Reserve

The highest peak of a chain of 4 mountains is the critical peak. It is located in Anuradhapura city at 766m above sea level. It will be a wonderful experience

Mihintale

There was a past story that king Dewanampiyatissa was hunting when Mihidu Thero brought the dharma to Sri Lanka, and the meeting of the two happened on Mihinthalawa. The Mihintale tour will surely be a wonderful experience, and visit the Rajagiri Caves, Idikatu Saya, and Kaludiya Pokuna here.

Jethawanaramaya

Jethawanaramaya, built by the past kings, is a beautiful example of the excellence of construction engineering technology part of the Buddha’s robe or column is kept here and is worshiped by Sri Lankans

Thuparamaya Dagaba

This is the first Dagaba in Sri Lanka and was built by King Dewanampiyatissa and consists of a Watadage.

Abayagiriya Monastery

Built by king Abhaya, Abayagiri is a place of pilgrimage for Sri Lankan Buddhists. The beautiful sanctuary is a marvel of creation.

Isurumuniya Temple

There are many rumors as to which love couple is symbolized by the world-famous Isurumuni love couple built by king Dewanampiyatissa

Wilpaththu National Park

Experience Sri Lanka’s most unavailable nature in the vast solitude of Wilpattu National Park. It is Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest game reserve, occupying a vast swathe of land bordering the copper-sand beaches of the northwest coast.

Ruwanwali Maha Saya

AD Built around 140AD by king Dutugemunu, this 103m high and 290m girth Maha Saya is a beautiful creation in the city of Anuradapura.

Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi

Considered the oldest tree in recorded history and one of the most sacred relics for Buddhists worldwide, Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya was brought to the country by Sanghamitra Thera and planted by the then reigning monarch King Devanampiyatissa.

Hotels Around Anuradhapura

Best Things to do in Anuradhapura

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