29 Things to Do In Anuradhapura

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1. Ruwanweli Maha Seya

4 km from city center

Historical Site

The Ruwanweliseya stupa is one of the largest stupas or dagobas, which is in the heart of the beautiful heritage city of Anuradhapura. This magnificent stupa was built by King Dutugamunu, who was hailed to be the hero of the island. The Ruwanweliseya stupa is also known as the Maha stupa and is one of the most adorned structures of the people of Sri Lanka.

4.9 /5

4 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is one of the most ancient trees which are living even today standing tall in the Mahamewna Gardens in Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka. The tree is believed to have sprouted from a cutting brought from Bodh Gaya in India, where Gautama Buddha had attained enlightenment. The tree is an authentic and living link to Gautama Buddha and is often respected as the oldest tree in history (Read More).

Tours starting from
₹1,281

4.1 /5

4 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

Jetavanaramaya monastery is one of the largest monasteries in the heritage city of Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka. This magnificent structure was the third-largest structure in the ancient world. Legend has it that a part of Buddha’s sash or belt was tied and preserved here at the Jetavanaramaya monastery.

4.8 /5

7 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

The Abhayagiri Vihara is one of the most beautiful and exciting structures which is in the atmospheric setting of Anuradhapura. The Abhayagiri Monastery was established in the 2nd Century BCE by King Valagamabau in the celebration of his victory against the Indian Chola invaders. The grand scale of the monastery ruins is genuinely breathtaking and can be viewed at any time, be it the break of dawn (Read More) or dusk.

Anuradhapura Travel Packages

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12 Nights / 13 Days

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7 Nights / 8 Days

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$588/person

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₹112,000/person

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5. Thuparamaya

4.8 /5

5 km from city center

Historical Site

Thuparamaya, also known as Thuparama, is the first stupa which was constructed in Sri Lanka after the introduction to Buddhism and is in the beautiful city of Anuradhapura. The ancient stupa of Thuparamaya was built during the reign of the King Devamnampiyatissa somewhere in the 3rd Century BCE and is said to enshrine the right collar bone of Gautama Buddha.

4.7 /5

3 km from city center

Historical Site

Isurumuniya is a revered Buddhist temple located in Anuradhapura. It is renowned for its impressive rock carvings, particularly the Isurumuniya Lovers, a famous bas-relief sculpture depicting a couple in a loving embrace. Isurumuniya also boasts other notable features such as a tranquil lotus pond, which adds to the peaceful atmosphere of the surroundings.

7. Samadhi Buddha Statue

4.8 /5

7 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

The Samadhi Buddha statue in Anuradhapura is an iconic and revered sculpture representing Lord Buddha in a state of deep meditation or samadhi. This statue holds significant religious and historical importance in Sri Lanka, situated within the Mahamevuna Park in Anuradhapura. The Samadhi Buddha is believed to be an embodiment of the serene and tranquil state attained by Buddha during meditation

4.7 /5

13 km from city center

Mountain

Situated near Anuradhapura, Mihintale is a sacred mountain and a revered pilgrimage site for Buddhists. It's believed to be the place where Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka. The site is dotted with numerous religious and architectural landmarks, including ancient stupas, temples, caves, and statues. You need to climb the 1,840 steps to reach the summit, where you will be greeted by stunning pa (Read More)noramic views.

Tours starting from
₹3,416

Top Attraction 4.8 /5

4 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

Mirisawetiya, located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, is one of the ancient and sacred Buddhist stupas in the country. It was built during the reign of King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BCE and holds significant historical and religious value. The stupa is said to house a relic of the Buddha, making it an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

4.9 /5

4 km from city center

Historical Site

The Brazen Palace or Lovamahapaya is a 2000-year-old palace constructed by King Dutugemunu in 2nd century B.C and had 1600 stone columns that supported nine stories reaching 150 feet and sides of 400 feet length with 1000 rooms. It is also known as the Brazen Palace because of the bronze tiles that were used on its roof.

Hidden Gem 4.6 /5

3 km from city center

Historical Site

Ranmasu Uyana is a royal pleasure garden of the pre-Christian era, laid out between Tissa Wewa and the Isurumuniya rock temple and fed by water from the tank. Its rock-cut bathing pools, sluices and carved reliefs show how far Anuradhapura had taken both hydraulic engineering and stone carving. The garden is best known for the Sakwala Chakraya, a circular chart carved into a rock face that has nev (Read More)er been convincingly explained.

4.6 /5

3 km from city center

Lake

Built by the very King Devanampiyatissa, who introduced Buddhism to Sri Lanka, Tissa Wewa is an artificial reservoir with architecture ahead of its time. During the 3rd century BC, it was used to increase the water supply to the flourishing capital of Anuradhapura. Today, the 652-acre-large lake is flanked by dedicated walkways and swaying trees along the banks.

13. Anuradhapura Maha Viharaya

4.6 /5

4 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

The Anuradhapura Maha Viharaya was the great monastery of Theravada Buddhism in Sri Lanka, founded in the 3rd century BC by King Devanampiya Tissa on land given to the monk Mahinda. For more than a thousand years it was the island's doctrinal centre, and in the 5th century AD the scholar Buddhaghosa worked here on the Pali commentaries that went on to shape Theravada practice across South and Sout (Read More)heast Asia.

4.1 /5

6 km from city center

Temple

Lankarama Dagoba is a stupa built by King Vattagamini Abhaya in about the 1st century BC. One of the sacred Buddhist sites of Anuradhapura, it is ringed by the ruins of concentric rows of stone pillars that once supported a roof over the stupa. Close by is the vast ancient reservoir known as Eth Pokuna, or 'elephant pond', cut to supply the surrounding monastery.

4.3 /5

4 km from city center

Museum

Established in the year 1947 by the efforts of Dr Senarath Paranavithana, the archaeological museum or Puravidu Bhavana of Anuradhapura holds some exciting artefacts, carvings and ancient everyday items found after excavations in Anuradhapura and other historical sites around Sri Lanka. It is a rich source of information on the heritage and culture of the place.

4.8 /5

7 km from city center

Historical Site

The Anuradhapura Moonstone is a significant example of ancient Sri Lankan stone craftsmanship. Moonstones, or "Sandakada Pahana," are intricately carved stone structures typically found at the entrance of ancient temples and stupas. The Anuradhapura Moonstone features detailed carvings depicting various animals, such as elephants, lions, and horses, as well as floral and geometric patterns, symbol (Read More)izing the transition from the mundane to the sacred.

4.2 /5

7 km from city center

Historical Site

Famous for its beautifully carved stone structures, the Rathna Prasada is the Uposatha house (a place for the cleansing of the defiled mind) of the Abhayagiri Viharaya. Built-in 192-194 AD by King Kanitta Tissa who ruled Ceylon, Rathna Prasada or Gem palace was originally a seven storeyed skyscraper with tiered roof, had beautiful guard stones (Mura Gal) and a statue of Buddha made of gold.

4.4 /5

4 km from city center

Museum

The Jetavanarama Museum is a museum dedicated to the historical and archaeological significance of the Jetavanarama Stupa, one of the largest and most important stupas in the ancient city of Anuradhapura. The museum showcases artifacts, sculptures, and relics that have been discovered during the excavation and restoration work at the Jetavanarama site.

Day Trip 4.7 /5

56 km from city center

Forts & Palaces

Sigiriya, often referred to as the "Lion Rock," is an ancient rock fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the central Matale District. It is often visited on a day trip from Anuradhapura. Rising dramatically from the surrounding plains, Sigiriya is a colossal rock formation standing around 200 meters tall. Its sheer vertical walls and flattened summit once served as a fortified royal c (Read More)itadel.

Tours starting from
₹6,596

Day Trip 4.5 /5

58 km from city center

Temple

The Dambulla Cave Temple, also called the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the best-preserved and most extensive cave temple complex in the country, comprising five main caves, each possessing numerous statues of Lord Buddha and some figures of kings and statues of Lord Vishnu.

Day Trip 4.8 /5

58 km from city center

National Park

Minneriya National Park, located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, is a popular wildlife reserve known for its rich biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. The park is famous for its large population of Asian elephants, particularly during the annual "Gathering" from July to October, when hundreds of elephants converge around the park's Minneriya Tank for water and grazing.

Great For Family Outing 4.5 /5

60 km from city center

National Park

Wilpattu National Park is situated on the western coast of Sri Lanka, approximately an hour from the ancient city of Anuradhapura. It is the oldest and the largest national park in Sri Lanka. Apart from the leopards, one can spot many other mammals and reptiles at Wilpattu, such as the Sri Lankan elephant, sloth bear, spotted deer, Indian python, and monitor lizards.

Tours starting from
₹2,704

Hidden Gem 4.7 /5

36 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

Ritigala situated between Polonnaruwa and the old town of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka is a hilly forest and a place of Buddhist worship. The monastery is named after the 40m tall Ritigala trees in the mid slopes of the hill; this Buddhist monastery has inscriptions that date back to 1st century BC. The highest of the peaks in the Ritigala mountain range is the Ritigala Kanda that makes for an excellen (Read More)t trekking adventure.

4.6 /5

12 km from city center

Historical Site

The Kaludiya Pokuna Forest is an archaeological site as well as a forest containing remains from settlements stretching back to the 2nd century BC. Within the forest are remains of a monastery, places of residence, and a few inscriptions. The forest is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the purple-faced langur and the tufted grey langur, the Sri Lankan elephant, wild boar, and s (Read More)potted deer.

4.7 /5

34 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

Tantirimale Rajamaha Viharaya, is an ancient Buddhist temple with significant historical and religious importance. The temple is believed to date back to the 3rd century BCE and is associated with the early spread of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. The temple is home to several important historical and archaeological features, including ancient statues, inscriptions, and ruins.

Mahamevnawa Dhammachethiya Buddhist Monastery

4.7 /5

7 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

Mahamevnawa Dhammachethiya Buddhist Monastery, located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, is an important Buddhist site dedicated to promoting the teachings of the Buddha. The monastery is part of the Mahamevnawa tradition, which emphasizes meditation, study, and the practice of Dhamma. Visitors can explore the temple complex, participate in meditation sessions, and learn more about Buddhist philosophy a (Read More)nd practices.

Hidden Gem 4.5 /5

10 km from city center

Bridge

The Perimiyankulama Stone Bridge is an ancient and historically significant structure believed to have been built during the reign of the early kings of Sri Lanka. The bridge is part of the ancient irrigation system and served as an important link for transport and trade. Made from stone, the Perimiyankulama Stone Bridge is noted for its impressive craftsmanship and the ability to withstand the te (Read More)st of time.

4.1 /5

0 km from city center

Temple

Jayanthi Viharaya in Anuradhapura is an ancient Buddhist temple believed to date from the reign of King Vasabha, who ruled in the 1st century AD. Its quiet grounds and weathered ruins draw far fewer visitors than the main sacred city, so it suits pilgrims and anyone who wants the atmosphere of Anuradhapura without the crowds.

4.5 /5

0 km from city center

Temple

The temple of Sri Kadhiresan, also known as Kadhiresan Kovil, is a Hindu temple close to the Jayanthi Viharaya Buddhist temple. This temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, also known as Kadireshan or Kathiravel, a popular deity among Tamil Hindus. Lord Murugan, often depicted as a youthful god riding a peacock and carrying a spear, is worshipped as the god of war, victory, wisdom, and compassion.

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Wilpattu National Park

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Trincomalee

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Minneriya National Park

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FAQs on Anuradhapura

What are the top hotels in Anuradhapura?

There are 316 Hotels in Anuradhapura which can be booked through Holidify. The most popular hotels in Anuradhapura are Niwahana Holiday Residence, Wenasa Hotel, Ceylonima Home Stay, Sidangana, Kulama, THE Lake Villa, Yaluwa Tourist Rest. You can see all the hotels in Anuradhapura here

What are the top activities in Anuradhapura?

The top activities in Anuradhapura are Dambulla, Pidurangala, and Sigiriya Day Trip from Anuradhapura, Minneriya National Park Safari Experience from Anuradhapura, Private Anuradhapura Buddhist Pilgrimage Half Day Tour , Private City Transfers between Anuradhapura and Colombo, Kandy, Trinco and More, Private Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) Transfers for Anuradhapura, Private Polonnaruwa Ancient Ruins and Pilgrimage Day Tour from Anuradhapura.

What are the top sightseeing places in Anuradhapura?

The top sightseeing places in Anuradhapura are Sri Maha Bodhi, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Ruwanweliseya, Jetavanaramaya Monastery, Thuparamaya, Abhayagiri Vihara.

How can I commute within Anuradhapura?

Tuk Tuks, buses and walking are the favored means of commuting
Read More

Places To Visit In Anuradhapura

"Sacred City with Ancient Ruins"

29 Things to Do In Anuradhapura

1. Ruwanweli Maha Seya

2. Sri Maha Bodhi

3. Jetavanaramaya Monastery

4. Abhayagiriya Vihara

Anuradhapura Travel Packages

12 Nights & 13 Days Sri Lanka's Ramayana Tour Package

Ramayana Trails Sri Lanka Tour Package

Ramayana Tour of Sri Lanka: Sacred Sites, Scenic Views, and Cultural Wonders

12 Nights Sri Lanka Tour with Ramayana Sites

Sri Lanka 13 Nights Tour Package - A Visit to Turtle Farm

Complete Sri Lanka Holiday Package in 12 Days

5. Thuparamaya

6. Isurumuniya Temple

Top Hotels In Anuradhapura

7. Samadhi Buddha Statue

8. Mihintale

9. Mirisawetiya Temple

10. Lovamahapaya

11. Ranmasu Uyana (Royal Park)

12. Thissa Wewa

Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Anuradhapura

13. Anuradhapura Maha Viharaya

14. Lankarama Dagoba

15. Archaeological Museum, Anuradhapura

16. Anuradhapura Moonstone

17. Ratnaprasada Guard Stone

18. Jetavanarama Museum

19. Sigiriya

20. Day Trip to Dambulla Cave Temple

21. Minneriya National Park

22. Wilpattu National Park

23. Ritigala Archaeological Site

24. Kaludiya Pokuna Archaeological Site

25. Tantirimale Rajamaha Viharaya

26. Mahamevnawa Dhammachethiya Buddhist Monastery

27. Perimiyankulama Stone Bridge

28. Jayanthi Viharaya

29. Kadireshan Kovil

Places To Visit In Nearby Places

FAQs on Anuradhapura

What are the top hotels in Anuradhapura?

What are the top activities in Anuradhapura?

What are the top sightseeing places in Anuradhapura?

How can I commute within Anuradhapura?

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