Why to visit Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura is a beautiful ancient city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a favorite for its well-preserved ruins of Sri Lanka’s first kingdom. It served as the capital for over 1,300 years and remains a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists. With its stupas, ancient monasteries, and sacred Bodhi tree, Anuradhapura offers you a glimpse into the grandeur of Sri Lanka’s past.
What's Special About Anuradhapura
- Sacred Bodhi Tree: The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, believed to be the oldest living tree with a known planting date, was brought from India over 2,000 years ago.
- Magnificent Dagobas: The city boasts massive stupas like Ruwanwelisaya and Jetavanaramaya, showcasing advanced ancient engineering.
- Ancient Monasteries: Abhayagiri and Mihintale were vital monastic complexes that played a significant role in spreading Buddhism.
- Hydraulic Engineering: The city’s ancient reservoirs, such as Tissa Wewa and Nuwara Wewa, highlight early Sri Lankan water management expertise.
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Things to Do at Anuradhapura
- Visit the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi to witness a sacred relic of Buddhist history.
- Explore the colossal stupas and learn about their historical significance.
- Wander through the ruins of the ancient palaces and monasteries.
- Discover the ancient irrigation tanks and their role in sustaining the city.
Little Known Facts About Anuradhapura
- It was abandoned in the 10th century due to invasions and later rediscovered in the 19th century.
- The Jetavanaramaya stupa was once the third tallest structure in the world after the pyramids of Giza.
- The city’s irrigation system is still functional and supplies water to local communities.
Entry Fee (Approximately)
- Foreigners: $25 per person
- SAARC Countries: $12.50 per person
- Sri Lankan Citizens: LKR 50 per person
Timings
Open Daily: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Average Duration
4 to 6 Hours: A full-day exploration is recommended to cover the main sites.
Distance
- From Colombo: 205 km (4.5 hours)
- From Kandy: 140 km (3.5 hours)
- From Polonnaruwa: 105 km (2.5 hours)
Tourist Spots Nearby
- Mihintale (13 km)
- Wilpattu National Park (30 km)
- Ritigala Forest Monastery (40 km)
