Sacred ancient city with stupas, temples, and ruins.
Anuradhapura was the first capital of ancient Sri Lanka and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. For more than a thousand years it was the centre of Sinhalese power and Buddhism, and its great dagobas, monasteries and reservoirs still stand across a wide archaeological park. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains an important place of pilgrimage.
Highlights
- Sri Maha Bodhi, the sacred fig tree grown from a cutting of the tree at Bodh Gaya
- Ruwanwelisaya and Jetavanaramaya, two enormous white and brick stupas
- Abhayagiri monastery ruins and the Samadhi Buddha statue
- Isurumuniya rock temple and the ancient pools
Travel tips
The sites are spread out, so plan a full day with a car, tuk-tuk or bicycle. Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered, and be ready to remove your shoes and hats at sacred places. Poson Poya in June brings large pilgrim crowds.