Anuradhapura Ancient City
Anuradhapura Ancient City is one of the major destinations of cultural and heritage tourism in Sri Lanka.
Anuradhapura Ancient City is one of the best destinations on heritage tourism in Sri Lanka. King Pandukabhaya founded the Anuradhapura kingdom in 437 BC. Additionally, the Mahawamsa stories claim that King Vijaya ruled the city. The ancient city of Anuradhapura continued until the 9th century AD, under the rule of King Mahinda V. After a number of kings, the kingdom was shifted to Polonnaruwa. Therefore, we can find historical witnesses to prove that the Ancient city of Anuradhapura has a history of more than 1300 years.
UNESCO named the Anuradhapura Ancient City as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982. So, the city is a major tourist destination. Anuradhapura is in the North Central Province in Sri Lanka and approximately 205 kilometers north of Colombo. Therefore, it is about a 4 to 5 hours journey from Colombo. The ancient city of Anuradhapura is extent in the area of over 40 square kilometers.
Must-Visit Attractions
Experience the best destinations of Anuradhapura Ancient Kingdom
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Tree
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is a sacred Bo Tree (Ficus religiosa) in Anuradhapura Ancient City. The location of this historical sacred tree is the Mahamewuna Garden. More...
Ruwanweli Maha Seya
Ruwanweli Maha Seya is the top philgrimaged stupa of Buddhists and is in the Anuradhapura Ancient City. King Dutugemunu built this Great Stupa. More...
Lovamahapaya Anuradhapura
Lovamahapaya was a majestic skyscraper located in the Anuradhapura Ancient City in Sri Lanka. Loha or Lova means in Sinhalese language is metal. More...
Thuparama Stupa
The first Buddhist Stupa structure in the Anuradhapura Ancient City in Sri Lanka is the Tuparama Stupa. King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd century BC built this to enshrine the Buddha’s collarbone relic. More...
Jetavanaramaya Stupa
The Jetavana Dagaba is an immense brick structure located in the Anuradhapura Ancient City in Sri Lanka. Jetavana Stupa is in the eastern side of the Ruwanweli Maha Seya. More...
Abhayagiri Vihara
Abhayagiri Vihara Stupa is one of the most amazing places to visit in the Anuradhapura Ancient City. King Vattagamini Abhaya built this stupa in 88 BC. More...
Essential Travel Information
Everything you need to know for your Santorini adventure
Best Time to Visit
April to November for warm weather. Peak season: June-August. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and lower prices.
Weather & Climate
Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers (75-85°F) and mild winters. Sea breeze provides natural cooling.
Currency & Language
Euro (EUR) is the official currency. Greek is the primary language, though English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Visa Requirements
EU citizens need only an ID card. US, Canada, Australia citizens need valid passport for stays up to 90 days.
Local Tips & Cultural Insights
- Book sunset dinner reservations well in advance
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets
- Carry sun protection - the Aegean sun can be intense
- Respect local customs and dress codes at religious sites
- Try local specialties: fava beans, cherry tomatoes, and Assyrtiko wine
- Use public transportation or rent ATVs for island exploration
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