Package Deatils

Anuradhapura Day Tour

  • Day Tour
  • Min pax:2 Max pax:22
  • Category : Day Tours

OVERVIEW :

The ancient city of Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its remarkably preserved historical ruins dating from the 4th century BC to the 11th century AD, a period during which it served as the capital of Sri Lanka. Anuradhapura also stood as the center of Theravada Buddhism for centuries and is recognized today as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Nestled in the North Central Province of the island, Anuradhapura is situated approximately 205 kilometers north of Colombo. The city attracts millions of visitors annually, drawn by its ancient ruins—some of the most awe-inspiring and unparalleled sites in all of South Asia. The city boasts a stunning collection of architectural and archaeological marvels, including colossal dagobas, ancient temples, towering brick structures, and historic pools, all remnants of the Anuradhapura Kingdom that ruled Sri Lanka for over a millennium. Today, these sacred sites are revered and serve as temples and places of worship, so visitors are encouraged to show the utmost respect while exploring.

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The Rich History of Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura rose to prominence in the 4th century BC, when it became the capital of ancient Lanka under the reign of King Pandukhabaya. Buddhism was introduced in Sri Lanka during the 3rd century BC, under the reign of King Devanampiyatissa. One of his notable contributions was the establishment of the country’s first stupa, designed to house the relic of Buddha’s right collarbone. Additionally, Princess Sangamitta, the daughter of Indian Emperor Ashoka, brought the sacred Bo sapling to Sri Lanka. This tree, believed to be the oldest living tree in the world, is still flourishing today.

King Tissa also made significant strides in the development of irrigation, constructing several tanks and a man-made lake that remain in use to this day, significantly boosting inland agriculture. Later, in the 3rd century BC, King Mahasena further expanded the kingdom’s infrastructure by building 16 irrigation tanks and the tallest stupa in Anuradhapura—Jethavanaramaya.

In the 2nd century BC, King Dutugemunu heroically reclaimed the city after it was overrun by invading Indian armies. Under his reign, Anuradhapura experienced a construction boom, with monumental structures such as the Ruwanweliseya Stupa, Mirisavetiya Temple, and the Brazen Temple being built.

Travel Sri Lankan Tours invites you to discover the fascinating history and ancient wonders of Anuradhapura on a guided tour that will take you back in time, revealing the glorious legacy of one of Sri Lanka’s most significant historical cities.


Places You Visit

Kuttam Pokuna

  • Ancient twin ponds used for ritual bathing in Anuradhapura, showcasing advanced hydraulic engineering of ancient Sri Lanka.
<4 style="margin-top:30px; margin-left:30px;">Mirisavatiya Dagoba
  • A sacred stupa built by King Dutugemunu, housing Buddha's relics and an important pilgrimage site.

Nuwara Wewa

  • A historic irrigation tank constructed by King Pandukhabaya, essential for agricultural development in ancient Sri Lanka.

Abhayagiri Dagoba

  • A massive stupa associated with the Abhayagiri monastery, a significant site in the history of Theravada Buddhism.

Sri Maha Bodhi

  • The sacred Bodhi tree, grown from the original tree under which Buddha meditated, a symbol of enlightenment and devotion.

Ruwanweliseya Dagoba

  • A colossal stupa built by King Dutugemunu, housing sacred relics and one of the most venerated sites in Sri Lanka.

Archaeological Museum

  • A museum showcasing artifacts from Anuradhapura’s ancient civilization, offering insights into the rich history of the city.

Jetavanarama Dagoba

  • One of the largest brick structures in the world, built by King Mahasena, an engineering marvel of ancient Sri Lanka.

Isurumuniya Vihara

  • An ancient temple known for its rock carvings and Buddhist murals, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka's artistic heritage.

Thuparama Dagoba

  • The oldest stupa in Sri Lanka, built to house Buddha's collarbone relic, a significant site for Buddhist worshippers.