Anuradhapura - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Anuradhapura

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Anuradhapura, a pretty good destination in Sri Lanka (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Anuradhapura and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Anuradhapura, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Sri Lanka, here's everything to know about Anuradhapura for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is an ancient city located in the Northern Province of Sri Lanka and is considered one of the most sacred cities in the country. It was the capital of Sri Lanka from the 4th century BC to the 11th century AD and is famous for its well-preserved ruins of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. The city is home to many ancient Buddhist temples, stupas, and monasteries which are of great historical and religious significance. The city is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its cultural and archaeological importance. Anuradhapura is a popular tourist destination for those interested in history and culture.

What to visit in Anuradhapura

Here are some of the tourist attractions in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka along with some information about each: 1. Sri Maha Bodhi: It is an ancient Fig tree in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, which is believed to be the southern branch of the Bodhi tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. The tree is considered to be the oldest tree in the world with a known planting date and has been preserved for more than 2,200 years.
2. Ruwanwelisaya: It is one of the largest and oldest stupas in Sri Lanka dated back to 2nd century BC and also known as Swarnamali Mahachaitya. The stupa is 103 meters in height and has a diameter of 91 meters. It was built by King Dutugemunu, one of the most popular kings of Sri Lanka.
3. Jetavanaramaya: It is another massive stupa built in Sri Lanka, which is almost as tall as the Great Pyramids of Giza. It was constructed by King Mahasena in the 3rd century AD and is considered the largest brick structure built in the ancient world.
4. Abhayagiri Dagoba: This is a huge stupa situated in Anuradhapura and was built in the 1st century BC. It stands at 75 meters in height and spreads over an area of 4 hectares. It was built by King Valagamba who ruled Sri Lanka from 103 BC to 89 BC.
5. Isurumuniya Temple: This is an ancient Buddhist temple located close to the Tissa Wewa lake in Anuradhapura. The temple is known for its rock carvings, which date back to the 3rd century BC. The temple also houses a museum showcasing ancient Buddhist artifacts and statues.
6. Kuttam Pokuna: These are twin ponds which were built during the reign of King Aggabodhi I (571-604 AD). The ponds are situated within the Abhayagiri monastery complex and were used by the monks living in the monastery for bathing and washing their clothes.
7. Lovamahapaya: It is another ancient building located in Anuradhapura, which was built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BC. The Lovamahapaya was once believed to have had nine stories and was a temple used by the Buddhist monks.
8. Samadhi Buddha Statue: It is a famous statue situated at the Mahamevna Park in Anuradhapura. The Samadhi Buddha statue is a 3rd-century BC statue, which depicts Lord Buddha in a meditative posture. The statue is considered as one of the finest pieces of Buddhist art in South East Asia.
These are some of the major tourist attractions in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Sri Lanka, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Anuradhapura.

When to go on holiday to Anuradhapura

The best time to visit Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka is between January and March which marks the dry season. At this time, the weather is cooler and there is little or no rainfall. The temperature is generally around 28-30 degrees Celsius during this period, making it comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, if you prefer to avoid crowds, you may consider traveling in the off-season, which is from April to November. This period is characterized by a wetter climate and higher humidity, but it can also offer extra benefits such as lower prices and fewer tourists.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Anuradhapura

There are several ways to get to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka: 1. By plane: Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo is the nearest airport, located about 200 km from Anuradhapura. From there, you can take a taxi or public transportation to Anuradhapura. 2. By train: There are regular trains from Colombo, Kandy, and other major cities in Sri Lanka to Anuradhapura. The train journey is scenic and affordable. 3. By bus: Anuradhapura is well-connected by bus to major cities in Sri Lanka. You can take a bus from Colombo or Kandy to Anuradhapura. 4. By car/taxi: You can also hire a car or taxi from Colombo or Kandy to get to Anuradhapura. It is a comfortable and convenient way to travel, but it can be expensive. Overall, these are the main transportation options available to get to Anuradhapura.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Anuradhapura, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Anuradhapura

Sure, Anuradhapura is a city located in Sri Lanka, known for its ancient ruins and Buddhist temples. Here are some typical foods of Anuradhapura with a short description for each of them: 1. Kottu Roti - This is a popular street food in Sri Lanka, including Anuradhapura. It's a stir-fry dish that is made with chopped flatbread and vegetables, often with meat or eggs.
2. Hoppers - These are bowl-shaped crepes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk batter. It's a popular breakfast food in Sri Lanka.
3. Pol Sambol - This is a spicy coconut relish made from grated coconut, chili, onion, and lime juice. It's typically served as a side dish with rice and curry.
4. Wambatu Moju - This is a sweet and sour eggplant curry made with onions, mustard seeds, and vinegar. It's a popular dish in Sri Lanka and often served with rice.
5. Kiribath - Sri Lankan milk rice often served at special occasions such as New Year's celebrations. It's made by cooking rice with coconut milk and is typically served with curries.
6. Parippu - A lentil-based dish made with coconut milk, onions, and spices often served with rice.
7. Fish Ambul Thiyal - A sour fish curry made with tamarind, spices, and dried goraka fruit. It's a popular dish in the coastal regions of Sri Lanka.
8. Woodapple Juice - A refreshing drink made from the fruit of the woodapple tree. It's sweet and sour and often served with ice.
I hope this helps you with your trip! Enjoy your visit to Anuradhapura!
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Anuradhapura an expensive destination for tourists?

Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka can be considered a relatively affordable destination for tourists. The cost of accommodation, transportation, and food is generally lower compared to many other popular tourist destinations in the world. However, the costs can vary depending on the type of accommodation and the level of comfort you choose. In general, budget-friendly accommodation options like guesthouses or hostels can be found for as low as $10 per night. Mid-range hotels and resorts typically range from $30 to $100 per night, while luxury resorts can cost upwards of $200 per night. Transportation costs such as taxis, tuk-tuks, and buses are also relatively affordable in Anuradhapura. You can expect to pay around $1-2 for a short tuk-tuk ride and $5-10 for a longer one. The local buses are even cheaper, with fares typically ranging from $0.5 to $1.
Food costs in Anuradhapura can also be affordable as local food and street food tend to be quite cheap. You can expect to pay about $1-3 for a local rice and curry meal at a small restaurant, and street food snacks typically cost less than $1.
Overall, Anuradhapura is quite budget-friendly, but it's always a good idea to research the costs of specific attractions and activities you are interested in, as entrance fees and other costs can add up.

Where to find accomodation in Anuradhapura

There are several areas where you can find accommodation to visit Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka. Some of the popular areas include: 1. Anuradhapura City Center: This is the most convenient area to stay as most of the main tourist attractions in Anuradhapura are located nearby.
2. New Town Area: This area is a bit further away from the city center but has a lot of good hotels and guesthouses.
3. Tissawewa: This is a peaceful and scenic area located near the Tissa Wewa reservoir. It is a good option if you are looking for a tranquil environment.
4. Mihintale: If you want to stay closer to Mihintale, a historic and sacred site located near Anuradhapura, this area is a good option.
5. Habarana: Although a bit far from Anuradhapura, it is a popular area for those who want to explore the nearby attractions such as Sigiriya and Dambulla.
You can check hotel prices at Anuradhapura here:
Booking.com

Is Anuradhapura a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, it is advisable to take normal precautions like being aware of your surroundings, not carrying too much cash, not leaving your valuables unattended, and following any safety advice given by your hotel or tour operator. It may also be helpful to familiarize yourself with the local customs and laws of the area before your trip. In case of an emergency, you can contact local authorities or your consulate/embassy for assistance.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Sri Lanka here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Anuradhapura.

What type of travelers will enjoy Anuradhapura the most?

Anuradhapura is a great destination for history and culture lovers. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has many ancient ruins and temples that date back to the 4th century BC. Therefore, it is an excellent place for families and couples looking to explore the architecture and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. Young people can also enjoy the nightlife and the adventurous experiences available in the area, such as hikes and bike rides. Overall, Anuradhapura is a great destination for all types of travelers who love to learn about ancient civilizations and enjoy a mix of adventure and culture.

How to get around Anuradhapura

There are several transportation options available to move around Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. The popular transportation means that you can consider are: 1. Tuk-Tuks: These are small three-wheeled vehicles commonly used in Sri Lanka as a taxi type of service.
2. Bicycle: Bike rentals are readily available in Anuradhapura, and it's a convenient and fun way to explore the ancient city.
3. Rental Cars: You can easily rent a car from several rental companies in Anuradhapura and drive around the city.
4. Public Transport: Buses and trains are also available, and they are a budget-friendly option to explore Anuradhapura.

What to see around Anuradhapura

There are many beautiful places to visit in a day trip from Anuradhapura. Here are some of the popular options: 1. Mihintale - a famous pilgrimage site for Buddhists, located about 12 km east of Anuradhapura. It's the place where Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka.
2. Wilpattu National Park - one of the largest national parks in Sri Lanka, known for its leopard population and birdlife. It's about 40 km west of Anuradhapura.
3. Ritigala Forest Reserve - a beautiful ancient monastery complex located about 27 km northeast of Anuradhapura. The forest is home to many species of wildlife including monkeys, deer and birds.
4. Kalawewa - an ancient reservoir that was built by King Datusena in the 5th century BC. It's about 35 km north of Anuradhapura.
5. Aukana Buddha Statue - an impressive 12-metre-high Buddha statue carved out of a single granite rock in the 5th century. It's located about 50 km northeast of Anuradhapura.
6. Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi - a sacred fig tree located in Anuradhapura that is said to be the oldest living tree in the world with a known planting date. It's a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
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