Anuradhapura
Over a millennium of royal Buddhist civilization enshrined in monumental white dagobas and sacred bodhi trees.
About Anuradhapura
Established in the 4th century BC, Anuradhapura was the first capital of Sri Lanka and reigned as the golden hub of South Asian Buddhism for over 1,300 years. Its monumental brick stupas (dagobas)—including Ruwanwelisaya and Jetavanaramaya—rivaled the Great Pyramids of Giza in structural scale. Today, it remains an active, deeply spiritual holy city visited by pilgrims from across the Buddhist world.
Important Attractions & Highlights
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
The sacred southern branch of the original Bodhi Tree in Bodh Gaya, India, under which Lord Buddha attained Enlightenment. Planted in 288 BC, it is the oldest historically authenticated living human-planted tree on Earth.
Ruwanwelisaya Great Stupa
A pristine white hemispherical stupa soaring 103 meters, surrounded by a carved elephant frieze wall.
Jetavanaramaya Monastery
Once the third tallest structure in the ancient world after the Egyptian pyramids, constructed from over 93 million baked clay bricks.
Recommended Things to Do in Anuradhapura
- Bicycle peacefully through ancient ruins and royal monastery gardens
- Offer lotus flowers alongside white-clad Buddhist pilgrims at the Sri Maha Bodhi
- Admire the exquisite stone-carved Samadhi Buddha statue in deep meditation
Local Travel Tips for Anuradhapura
- •White or light-colored clothing covering shoulders and legs is customary when visiting sacred shrines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Anuradhapura
Is Anuradhapura an active pilgrimage site or just an archaeological park?
Unlike many ancient ruins, Anuradhapura is both! It is a living, breathing holy site where rituals have continued unbroken for over 2,300 years.
Visit Anuradhapura with Sangeeth Lanka
Include Anuradhapura in your custom private driver itinerary. We arrange comfortable transport, local guides, and entrance tickets.
Tours Featuring Anuradhapura
The Grand Ceylon Odyssey: 14-Day Island Round Journey
An all-inclusive, leisurely paced two-week private chauffeured immersion across Sri Lanka's 6 UNESCO World Heritage sites, tea mountains, wildlife safaris, and tropical beaches.