In Anuradhapura, you delve into the rich history of Sri Lanka. This sacred city was the first capital of Sri Lanka, and for centuries, they built gigantic stupas, dagobas, and temples here. Along with Dambulla and Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura is part of the so-called ‘cultural triangle.’ These were important capitals in Sri Lanka’s ancient kingdoms. Because these places are very similar, it’s best to visit just one of these cities. In our opinion, Anuradhapura is the best choice, partly because you can also visit the nearby Mihintale. Mihintale is the place where Buddhism originated in Sri Lanka. Read all our tips for Anuradhapura here!
What makes Anuradhapura special?
In and around Anuradhapura, you’ll find many ancient temples. Over a thousand years ago, Anuradhapura was the political and religious capital of Sri Lanka (then called Ceylon) until the city was abandoned due to an invasion in the year 993. The city was then taken over by the jungle, but today you can visit Anuradhapura and see the ancient buildings. Spread over an area of about 40 square kilometers, you’ll find remnants. From crumbling ruins and unique rock temples to ancient pools and impressive renovated stupas. Some have been renovated, and others are completely decayed. Several places are still used today as sacred sites where ceremonies take place regularly. People from all over the country come here, dressed in white, to pray and offer flowers. This gives Anuradhapura a special vibrancy. Therefore, Anuradhapura is the place in Sri Lanka to learn about history, culture, and traditions.
What to do in Anuradhapura?
There is so much to see in Anuradhapura that sometimes you can’t see the forest for the trees, and you don’t know which temples to visit. That’s why below you’ll find a list of the most beautiful temples in Anuradhapura, as well as tips for other fun attractions and things to do.
Recommendation: Explore Anuradhapura with a good guide
When you read about Anuradhapura on the internet, almost every blog will recommend exploring Anuradhapura by bike. In our opinion, that’s not a very tight plan. Besides the heat and the fact that the distances are quite large, you also miss out on all the interesting stories about history. The temples and ruins in Sri Lanka are not the most impressive in Asia. It’s mainly the associated stories about history and Buddhism that make it interesting.
That’s why I recommend going with a guide who will take you to the various places. In addition to knowing the best times of day to be at each place, a guide also knows everything about the history, local life, and the origin of Buddhism. This really brings your visit to Anuradhapura to life. You can ask your hotel to recommend a good guide; this is the cheapest option, but you obviously don’t know how much knowledge they have. Clearly indicate that you want to learn about the culture and history; otherwise, you might get someone who says nothing and just takes you to the sights. If you want to be sure of a good guide, Navin’s tour is recommended.
Visiting the Old City or the New City
It’s good to know that Anuradhapura consists of two parts: the Old City and the New City. To visit the Old City, you have to buy a ticket for around $30. This ticket is checked at several places in the Old City. Because the structures in this part are designated as monuments, they are not allowed to be renovated. This means the stupas are not painted white but retain their original brown color.
The New City is as old as the Old City, and here too, you’ll find a lot of temples, but most of these temples have been restored. You can easily spend a whole day visiting the most beautiful ones. Most attractions in the New City are free to visit, and for a few, you pay a few euros entrance fee. Depending on your budget, time, and interest, you can decide which parts of Anuradhapura you want to visit. I visited the New City, and in the next paragraph, you’ll read about the most beautiful attractions in the New City.
The 7 Most Beautiful Attractions in Anuradhapura
Before you read about the most beautiful attractions, it’s important to know that you should never take a selfie or photo where you pose with your back to Buddha. This is considered extremely disrespectful. A photo where you are facing Buddha is fine. Additionally, it’s handy to bring socks because you have to take off your shoes at the temples, and the tiles can be very hot due to the sun.
#1 Ruwanweli Maha Seyas
This impressive white stupa, with its 100 meters height, was the largest in the world in its time. After much destruction and renovations, the stupa is now only 55 meters high. However, it is still an important place for Buddhism. According to the stories, a portion of Buddha’s ashes was enshrined here, which is why many Buddhists come here to honor it.
#2 Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi (Bodhi Tree)
Right next to the stupa mentioned above, you’ll find Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. This sacred tree is central to Anuradhapura, both literally and spiritually. The tree is said to have originated from a sapling of the Indian Bodhgaya tree, under which Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment. This tree has been maintained and protected for over 2000 years. It is reportedly the oldest tree in the world. For a small donation, you can have a white string tied around your wrist here, which is believed to bring luck.
#3 Isurumuniya Vihara
This is a beautiful temple in a rock with water around it, known for the number of stone statues. You pay a small entrance fee to enter this temple.
#4 Vessagiriya
These large rocks are the remnants of a cave monastery. As you walk among the rocks, you’ll see inscriptions and shapes carved from stone. It’s a place where monks meditated. When you sit in one of the subtly carved seats, you’ll notice it’s a cool and pleasant place to meditate.
#5 Ranmasu Uyana (Royal Park)
In the Royal Park, you can see how ingeniously they managed water tanks in ancient Anuradhapura. The different layers through which the water passed ensured that it was filtered.
#6 Mihindu Aranya Senasanaya
This is a beautiful old, large tree with a unique above-ground root system. It is also a popular place for monks to meditate. The tree has been helped by humans to grow in the way it is now, with gates and arches. You can sit on stone benches inside and outside the tree.
#7 Kaludiya Pokuna
On the way to Mihintale (you’ll read more about that later), you’ll find this beautiful spot by the water. It’s not crowded, and it’s a nice combination of ruins and nature. Here is the location of Kaludiya Pokuna.
Watch the Sunset at Mihintale
Half an hour’s drive from Anuradhapura lies the sacred mountaintop of Mihintale. This is the place where Buddhism originated in Sri Lanka, making it one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists. When you go with a guide, you’ll learn about the meeting that took place here between Buddha and the then king Tissa. It’s also a very beautiful place to visit because of the view over the jungle. In total, there are 1840 steps to the top, and it’s very beautiful to watch the sunset here.
Tip: Are you looking for a unique and peaceful spot for the sunset? From the level where you get your ticket and want to take the stairs to Mihintale, climb the steps up on the other side of this square. You’ll then climb the adjacent mountain, to Elephant Pagoda, and you’ll end up even higher than Mihintale. From here, you have a view of the temple, and especially with the sunset, it’s a magical view. From here, you can take a shortcut route back down towards Mihintale.
Visit Wilpattu National Park from Anuradhapura
One of the coolest things you can do in Sri Lanka is go on safari. In various national parks, you can admire wild animals like elephants and leopards up close. Wilpattu National Park is one of the best parks for wildlife spotting, and Anuradhapura is a perfect base to visit Wilpattu National Park. Although this park is the oldest park in Sri Lanka, it’s not as crowded as, for example, Yala National Park. Read all tips for Wilpattu National Park.
Tips for Good Restaurants in Anuradhapura
Palhena Restaurant – This is a beautiful restaurant serving local cuisine. To make it extra special, you can dine in a treehouse.
Rasa Gedara (The House Of Taste) – Here you can enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan buffet. Choose your favorite dishes, and they will be beautifully served on a large lotus leaf. This restaurant closes at 5 pm.
Golden Mango Indian Restaurant – You don’t come here necessarily for the ambiance, but for the incredibly tasty Indian food.
Kafe – For delicious waffles, burgers, pancakes, smoothies, and coffee.
Little Paradise Restaurant Anuradhapura – This restaurant is a bit hidden in a residential area, but once you arrive, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the staff who enthusiastically tell you about the dishes. There’s no menu, so you’ll be surprised with all the deliciousness that’s brought to the table.
Our Favorite Spots in Anuradhapura
Looking for a nice homestay in Anuradhapura? Book a few nights at Ceylonima Homestay. This tip was shared by one of our readers because they had such a wonderful stay here. The lovely owners go above and beyond to ensure you have an unforgettable experience, and they cook incredibly well. If you’d rather stay in a hotel with a nice pool, then Hotel Heladiv is the best choice in Anuradhapura. It’s delightful to take a refreshing dip in the pool after exploring the temples of Anuradhapura, and there’s a chef who cooks delicious meals. For a unique stay, head to Heaven Upon Rice Fields. This hotel is located by the rice fields, offering stunning views. Especially on the rooftop and during sunset, it’s pure bliss. Book a room with a view for an extra special experience.
  Ceylonima Homestay |
 Hotel Heladiv |
  Heaven Upon Rice Fields |
