Anuradhapura, one of the greatest and oldest cities in Sri Lanka, stands as a monumental testament to the island’s ancient Buddhist civilization. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this sacred city was once the heart of political and religious life in Sri Lanka, serving as its capital for over a millennium. Today, Anuradhapura is an archaeological treasure trove, where sprawling monasteries, towering stupas, and intricately carved stone pillars offer glimpses into the grandeur of Sri Lanka’s ancient kingdom.

Highlights & Must-Visit Places in Anuradhapura

1. Sri Maha Bodhi (The Sacred Bo Tree)
   One of the most revered sites in Anuradhapura, the Sri Maha Bodhi is a sacred fig tree that has been grown from a cutting of the original Bodhi Tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. Planted over 2,300 years ago, it is the oldest living tree with a recorded history and a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide.

2. Ruwanwelisaya (The Great Stupa)
   Built by King Dutugemunu in 140 BC, Ruwanwelisaya is one of the most significant stupas in Sri Lanka, standing as a symbol of the island’s Buddhist heritage. The massive white dome, surrounded by intricate elephant carvings, houses sacred relics of the Buddha and offers a profound spiritual experience for visitors.

3. Thuparamaya
   Considered to be the first stupa built in Sri Lanka after the introduction of Buddhism, Thuparamaya enshrines the right collarbone of the Buddha. The stupa is an important religious site and a beautiful example of early Sinhalese architectural design, with its circular form and graceful lines.

4. Abhayagiri Monastery
   Once one of the largest monasteries in the world, Abhayagiri was a major center of Theravada and Mahayana Buddhist scholarship. The Abhayagiri Dagoba, a towering stupa surrounded by lush greenery, stands as a reminder of the site’s spiritual and academic significance.

5. Jetavanaramaya
   The Jetavanaramaya is one of the tallest stupas in the ancient world, once standing at an impressive 122 meters. Constructed by King Mahasena, this stupa was built to house a part of the Buddha’s belt. It remains one of the largest brick structures ever built by mankind and is a remarkable example of ancient engineering.

6. Isurumuniya Temple
   Famous for its ancient rock carvings, the Isurumuniya Temple is renowned for its depiction of the “Lovers of Isurumuniya” sculpture, which is a masterpiece of Sri Lankan art. The temple itself is perched on a rock and offers a peaceful ambiance with beautiful views of its surrounding pond and garden.

Why Visit Anuradhapura?

Anuradhapura is more than just an ancient city—it is a spiritual journey through centuries of history, religion, and culture. As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, it offers visitors the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of kings and monks, exploring the remains of royal palaces, monasteries, and sacred stupas.

The city’s Buddhist heritage is unparalleled, with its collection of stupas and temples serving as pilgrimage sites for Buddhists around the world. For history lovers, Anuradhapura provides a deep dive into Sri Lanka’s rich past, while for spiritual seekers, it offers a peaceful, reflective atmosphere amidst centuries-old ruins. The stunning blend of nature, history, and culture makes Anuradhapura a destination that offers both serenity and awe.