Explore the Ancient City of Anuradhapura

Discover the timeless wonders of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s first capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Anuradhapura, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, is a treasure trove of ancient ruins, stupas, and historical relics. Founded in the 4th century BCE, this sacred city was the center of Theravada Buddhism for many centuries and remains a vital cultural and spiritual hub.

Why Visit Anuradhapura?

1. Sacred Bodhi Tree: The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a sapling from the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment, is one of the most revered sites in Anuradhapura. Pilgrims from around the world come to pay homage to this ancient and sacred tree.

2. Majestic Stupas: The city is home to some of the largest stupas in Sri Lanka, including Ruwanwelisaya, Jetavanaramaya, and Abhayagiri Dagoba. These monumental structures, built as reliquaries for sacred Buddhist artifacts, stand as testaments to the architectural and engineering prowess of ancient Sri Lankan civilizations.

3. Ancient Monasteries: Explore the extensive ruins of monasteries such as Mihintale, the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, and the sprawling Abhayagiri Monastery, which once housed thousands of monks and was a renowned center for Buddhist scholarship.

4. Royal Palaces and Reservoirs: Visit the remains of the royal palaces, such as the Brazen Palace (Lohapasada), and marvel at the intricate carvings and grandeur of these ancient abodes. The city’s sophisticated irrigation system, including reservoirs like the Basawakkulama (Abhayavapi), showcases advanced hydraulic engineering.

5. Intricate Carvings and Statues: Anuradhapura is dotted with beautifully carved statues and intricately designed moonstones (sandakadapahana), which offer insight into the artistic and cultural achievements of the era.

6. Sacred Shrines and Temples: From the serene Isurumuniya Temple, known for its rock carvings, to the Lankaramaya, a stupa with a unique architectural style, the city’s sacred sites provide a deep spiritual experience.

Experience Anuradhapura:

• Duration: A full-day tour is recommended to thoroughly explore the main sites, though a multi-day visit allows for a deeper immersion into the city’s rich history.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for a more pleasant climate and to avoid the midday heat.

What to Bring:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
• Plenty of water
• Modest clothing to respect the sacred nature of the sites
• Camera to capture the historic beauty

Tips for Visitors:

• Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
• Be mindful of the sacred nature of the sites and avoid touching or climbing on ancient structures.
• Engage a knowledgeable guide to enhance your understanding of the historical and cultural significance of the landmarks.

Join Us:

Discover the ancient wonders of Anuradhapura with Walk Lanka Holidays. Our expert guides will provide you with fascinating insights into the history, architecture, and spiritual significance of this ancient city. Make your visit to Anuradhapura an unforgettable journey through time with our meticulously curated tours.

For more information or to book your tour, contact us at:

• Phone: +94762475645
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.walklankaholidays.com

Embark on an extraordinary adventure and uncover the timeless beauty of Anuradhapura with Walk Lanka Holidays!