Where ancient Sri Lanka was born
Anuradhapura
A sacred city of timeless ruins and spiritual heritage
Anuradhapura Overview
Anuradhapura is one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred ancient cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Sri Maha Bodhi, the oldest recorded tree in the world, is a major pilgrimage site. Monumental stupas like Ruwanwelisaya and Jetavanaramaya dominate the skyline, while Abhayagiri Monastery, Isurumuniya Temple, and the Twin Ponds (Kuttam Pokuna) reflect advanced ancient engineering and spiritual life.
Things to see
Featured Experiences
in Anuradhapura
Jetavanaramaya Stupa
Jetavanaramaya is one of the tallest brick structures in the ancient world, built during the reign of King Mahasena in the 3rd century. Located in Anuradhapura, the massive stupa reflects advanced ancient engineering and remains an important Buddhist religious site and architectural achievement.
Ruwanwelisaya Stupa
Ruwanwelisaya is one of the most sacred stupas in Sri Lanka, built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BCE. The gleaming white dome is a central pilgrimage site in Anuradhapura and represents classical Sinhalese stupa architecture. It continues to be actively used for worship and religious ceremonies.
Abhayagiri Stupa
Abhayagiri Stupa is a major ancient monastic complex in Anuradhapura, once home to thousands of monks. Built in the 1st century BCE, it became a center for Buddhist scholarship and international religious exchange. The stupa and surrounding ruins highlight the scale and influence of ancient Sri Lankan monastic life.