Anuradhapura

Sri Lanka, Asia

Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage Site steeped in ancient history, showcasing remarkable ruins of Buddhist temples and stupas that date back to the 3rd century BC. Highlights include the Sacred Bodhi Tree, one of the oldest living trees in the world, and the grandeur of Ruwanwelisaya Stupa. The town's blend of spirituality, archaeology, and lush greenery captivates visitors seeking tranquility and cultural immersion in one of Sri Lanka's most significant cities.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

China Bay

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Anuradhapura

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree

Visit the sacred fig tree, a symbol of Buddhism.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa

Admire the ancient stupa, a marvel of architecture.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Abhayagiri Dagoba

Explore the massive stupa with stunning views.

No booking required
4

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Wander through the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura

Stroll among the historic ruins and relics.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Isurumuniya Vihara

Explore the rock temple with exquisite carvings.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Jetavanaramaya

Marvel at one of the tallest ancient stupas.

No booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Archaeological Museum

Learn about Anuradhapura's rich history and artifacts.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a bike tour around the city

Cycle through the historic sites and lush landscapes.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-6 (#109 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Sri Lanka Rupee

Majority religion

Buddhist

Language

Sinhala

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Sri Lankan Rice and Curry

VE

Rice served with various curries. (National dish)

Kottu Roti

VE

Chopped roti stir-fried with vegetables.

Hoppers (Appa)

VE

Fermented rice flour pancakes.

Pol Sambol

VE

Coconut sambol with chili and onion.

Lamprais

Rice and meat wrapped in banana leaves.

Phrases to learn

English

Sinhala

Hello

Ayubowan

(Ah-yoo-boh-wahn)

Yes/No

Ow / Nae

(Ow / Neh)

Thank you

Sthūti

(S-thoo-tee)

Excuse me

Samāvenda

(Sah-mah-ven-dah)

How much?

Keeyada?

(Kee-ya-da)