anuradhapura

A major city in Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura is famous for its well-preserved ruins of an ancient Sri Lankan civilization. Now a World Heritage Site, Anuradhapura was the centre of Theravada Buddhism for many centuries. The city lies on the banks of the historic Malvathu River, and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Places to See
Sri Maha Bodhiya
One of the major attractions of Anuradhapura is Sri Maha Bodhiya. The tree was first planted in 249 B.C., and was brought by the daughter of King Ashoka (Indian Emperor). According to popular beliefs, Buddha received enlightenment under the Indian branch of the Jaya Sri Maha in Buddha Gaya in India. This world-famous tree is believed to be the most ancient surviving historical tree in the entire universe.

Ruwanwelisaya
Another eye-catching attraction of Anuradhapura that holds great architectural value is Ruwanwelisaya. This sacred stupa was built by King Dutugemunu, who was famous for his victory over the Chola King, Elara. One of the tallest monuments in the world, Ruwanwelisaya stands at a height of 300 feet.

Thuparamaya
One of the ancient stupas of Sri Lanka, Thuparamaya is a combination of two words Stupa and Arama. The stupa was built in the third century B.C. by King Devanampiya. Mahinda (who brought Buddhism to Sri Lanka) wanted to return to India to worship Buddha relics. It was then that the King said they can build a place where the relics should be worshipped. Afterwards, Thuparamaya was created.

Jetavanarama Dagoba
Jetavanarama Dagoba is among the largest Stupas here. The massive domes of the Dagoba rise above the entire eastern part of Anuradhapura. It was built in the 3rd century by King Mahasena, and once topped 120m high. Today, standing tall at 70m, the Dagoba is similar to the Abhayagiri. When it was built it was almost certainly the third-tallest monument in the world, the first two being Egyptian pyramids.

Abhayagiri Dagoba
This colossal Dagoba dates back to the 1st century BC, and was one the ceremonial focus of the 5000 stron Abhayagiri Monastery. Abhayagiri was originally 100m high and was one of the greatest structures. After undergoing several renovations, the Dagoba stands 75m high above the forest floor.

Ratnaprasada
Also known as ‘Jewel Palace’, the majority of this 8th century palace lies in ruins today. Originally, the palace was seven storeys tall, and had a gorgeous tiered roof. The entrance of the palace has a wonderfully carved muragala (guardstone). The carving depicts the Cobra King holding a vase of abundance and a flowering branch.

Other major attractions

• Anuradhapura World Heritage Site
• Isurumuniya Vihara
• Sandahiru Seya
• Kuttam Pokuna
• Moonstone

Best time to visit
It is a perfect holiday destination for visitors almost all the year round, however the months of April and September are considered as the best season. During this period, the weather becomes dry and sunny with moderate temperature.

How to reach
By Air - Colombo airport is the nearby airport to the city of Anuradhapura (183 km).
By Train - Anuradhapura city has two train stations. The first one is closer to the old bus town in the city and it is known as Main Anuradhapura station. The other train station is smaller than the previous one and it is located at the South region of the city. It is known as Anuradhapura New town station.
By Road - The city has two bus stations ‘Old Bus Station’ and ‘New Bus Station’. The city is well connected to major cities like Kurunegala, Kandy, Trncomalee, Putralam, Vavuniya and Dambulla via efficient roadways.