Anuradhapura
Ancient Kingdom & Sacred Buddhist Heritage
About Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s ancient royal capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its sacred stupas, centuries-old monasteries, and the revered Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi — the oldest historically recorded tree in the world. This legendary city reflects the height of ancient Sinhala civilization, offering a serene blend of archaeology, spirituality, and living Buddhist traditions surrounded by lakes and forest landscapes.
Key Highlights
- UNESCO Ancient City of Anuradhapura
- Ruwanweliseya & Jetavanaramaya Stupas
- Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
- Sacred Buddhist Temples & Monasteries
- Man-made Lakes (Tanks) & Reservoir Landscapes
Top Experiences
Things To Do
- Visit Ruwanweliseya, Abhayagiriya & Jetavanaramaya.
- Explore the rock temple of Isurumuniya.
- Take a heritage bicycle tour around the ancient city.
- Visit Mihintale — the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
Photo Gallery
A visual journey through Anuradhapura
Stone Buddha Statue near Thuparamaya
An ancient stone-carved Buddha statue resting amidst historic ruins near Thuparamaya, Sri Lanka’s first Buddhist stupa.
Ruwanweliseya at Sunset
The majestic white stupa of Ruwanweliseya illuminated softly under the evening sky, a revered landmark of Buddhist heritage.
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
The sacred Bodhi Tree believed to be the oldest historically documented tree in the world, worshipped by millions of Buddhists.
Isurumuniya Temple
The peaceful rock temple of Isurumuniya, famous for its serene water pond and iconic ‘Isurumuniya Lovers’ stone carving.
Abhayagiriya Stupa
The monumental Abhayagiriya Stupa, one of the greatest monastic complexes of ancient Sri Lanka and a key center of Buddhist learning.
Devotees at Ruwanweliseya
Thousands of devotees dressed in white gather at Ruwanweliseya, reflecting the deep spiritual devotion of Anuradhapura’s living heritage.
Ancient Guardian Carvings
Intricately carved stone figures adorning the base of a historic structure, showcasing the artistic mastery of early Anuradhapura craftsmen.
Abhayagiri Stupa
A lone devotee sits before the massive Abhayagiri Stupa, one of the greatest monastic complexes of ancient Sri Lanka.