Anuradapura Ancient city

Anuradhapura Ancient City – The Sacred Heart of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist Civilization

Discover Anuradhapura, the first great capital of Sri Lanka and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Anuradhapura is the spiritual and historical heart of the island, home to ancient kings, sacred monuments, and more than 2,500 years of Buddhist heritage.

Walk through a vast open-air museum featuring majestic dagobas, ancient palaces, royal gardens, monastic complexes, reservoirs, and colossal statues, all telling the story of Sri Lanka’s golden era.

✨ Highlights & History

Founded in the 4th century BC by King Pandukabhaya, Anuradhapura flourished under many great kings such as King Devanampiya Tissa, King Dutugemunu, King Walagamba, and King Mahasena. It became a powerful center for Buddhism, especially after the arrival of Arahat Mahinda Thero, who introduced Buddhism to Sri Lanka during King Devanampiya Tissa’s reign.

The city is home to the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, the oldest authenticated sacred tree in the world, grown from a sapling of the original Bodhi tree under which Lord Gautama Buddha attained Enlightenment. Pilgrims from all over the world visit this holy site throughout the year.

🏛 Major Sites in Anuradhapura

Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi – Sacred Bodhi Tree over 2,300 years old

Ruwanwelisaya – One of the world’s tallest and most revered stupas, built by King Dutugemunu

Jethawanaramaya – Once the third tallest structure in the ancient world

Abhayagiriya Monastery – A major learning center of early Buddhism

Thuparamaya – The first Buddhist stupa in Sri Lanka, containing Buddha’s collarbone relic

Isurumuniya Temple – Famous for the iconic Isurumuniya Lovers carving

Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds) – Brilliant examples of ancient hydraulic engineering

Mirisawetiya Dagoba – Built by King Dutugemunu after victory in war

Samadhi Buddha Statue – Serene 4th-century meditation statue

Moonstone (Sandakada Pahana) – Unique symbol of ancient Sinhalese art

Royal Palaces & Ruins – Remains of royal glory and architecture

Explore sacred sites, learn about Sri Lanka’s ancient kings, and experience the serenity of Buddhist culture preserved for millennia.

Anuradhapura is a must-visit destination for history lovers, Buddhist pilgrims, and anyone seeking to experience the soul of Sri Lanka’s ancient civilization.