Anuradhapura was the capital of Sri Lanka from around the 4th century BCE until the early 11th century CE — one of the longest-lasting capitals in South Asian history. It is where Buddhism took root on the island: tradition holds that Mahinda, son of the Indian emperor Ashoka, brought the teaching here, and his sister Sanghamitta brought a sapling of the Bodhi tree from Bodh Gaya.
That tree, the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, is still venerated by thousands of pilgrims dressed in white, and is often described as the oldest human-planted tree with a documented history. Around it rise enormous stupas — the gleaming white Ruwanwelisaya, the brick mountain of Jetavanaramaya — and the forest monasteries of Abhayagiri. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982.
Top things to do at Anuradhapura
Pay respects at the Sri Maha Bodhi
The spiritual heart of the city. Visit in the early morning or at dusk, when pilgrims bring lotus flowers and oil lamps.
Walk around Ruwanwelisaya
Built in the 2nd century BCE by King Dutugemunu and restored in the 20th century, its wall of carved elephants and white dome are the city’s most photographed sight.
Explore Jetavanaramaya and Abhayagiri
Jetavanaramaya was one of the tallest structures in the ancient world. The Abhayagiri monastery area hides moonstones, guard stones and the Samadhi Buddha among the trees.
How to get to Anuradhapura
- From Dambulla: about 68 km, 1.5 hours by car along the A9 and A28. Frequent buses take a little over two hours.
- Getting around: the sites are spread out — hire a bicycle or take a tuk-tuk tour.
Insider tips
- Wear white or light, modest clothing if you can — it is appreciated at the sacred sites.
- The archaeological ticket for foreigners is around US$25–30; the Sri Maha Bodhi and active temples may be visited separately. Check current arrangements locally.
- Take a full day, or stay overnight — trying to combine Anuradhapura with Sigiriya in one day is exhausting.
- Poya (full-moon) days bring huge crowds of pilgrims — wonderful to see, but slow going.
Best tours & tickets for Anuradhapura
These top-rated experiences are the easiest way to see Anuradhapura:
Private tour from US$23 Anuradhapura: Tuk Tuk Tour with Temples & Hidden Stories
Anuradhapura’s ruins are spread over many square kilometres, and a tuk-tuk is the ideal way to cover them. A local driver-guide links the Sri Maha Bodhi, Ruwanwelisaya and Jetavanaramaya with quieter monasteries in the forest.
- The sacred Bodhi tree and the great stupas
- A private tuk-tuk and driver-guide
- Lesser-known ruins most groups skip
