Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura, the island’s capital over a 1000 years ago is a cultural enclave that is revered by Buddhist pilgrims both locally and internationally as the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. A living heritage today, this city is home to many buddhist monks, reverent devotees and people, with the air surrounded by the hypnotic murmur of religious chanting, bringing the life to brick temples, Buddha statues and towering dagobas (dome-shaped structures) of a long time ago.
Nestled within this tranquil city you will find one of the world’s oldest trees, the Sri Maha Bodiya – a sacred branch of the Bo tree that was brought down to Sri Lanka from Bodhgaya in India.
Top Attractions around Anuradhapura
The Sacred Bodhi Tree
One of the world’s oldest trees, the Sri Maha Bodiya – a sacred branch of the Bo tree that was brought down to Sri Lanka from Bodhgaya in India.
Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba
Ruwanwelisaya, a.k.a ‘Maha Thupaya’ and ‘Swarnamali Chaithya’ is one of the most sacred stupas among the pilgrims.
Abhayagiri Vihara
Abhayagiriya is an ancient Buddhist Monestry, established by King Valagamba. Histrorically it was a great monastic center as well as a royal capital, with magnificent monasteries rising to many stories.
Jethawanaramaya
Jethwanarama Stupa, built by King Mahasen was know to be the thrid tallest monument in the world history. The structure is significant in the island’s history. It represents the tensions within the Theravada and Mahayana sects of Buddhism.
Thuparama Dagoba
With the spread of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, this is the first stupa to be constructed in the nation. Constructed during the reign of King Devamnampiyatissa.
Mihintale
Historically recorded as the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. We recommend doing a climb in the early morning or late afternoon – it is a beautiful place to see at sunset.
GALLERY
