Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is the first capital of ancient Sri Lanka and is known for its rich history and culture. It is situated 205kilometers away from the present capital, Colombo. A visit to this exotic place will show you the rich collection of archaeological and architectural wonders consisting of ancient pools and crumbling temples, built thousands of years ago. Let us show  you the wonders this ancient city holds.

History of Anuradhapura

The city of Anuradhapura became the first capital of Sri Lanka under the reign of King Pandukhabaya. Development and changes took place under his reign in the 4^th century BC.

The city gained its importance when Buddhism was introduced to the island during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa, before the reign of King Pandukhabaya where he played an important role for the city to gain its significance. The country’s first Stupa the Thuparama was built by him which is said to consist of a relic of Buddha. Ancient history states that Princess Sangamitta, daughter of Emperor Asoka of India planted the sacred Bo sapling which was arranged by king Tissa himself. This tree stands even today to amaze us all and is considered to be the oldest living tree in the world. 

The manmade lake ‘Tissa Wewa‘was also built during this time which is considered to be a major irrigation that was ever conducted. The city also faced many challenges from invading armies from India but it was recaptured. Many more Kings came up with developing and constructing various archeological structures which stand even today. Famous amongst them are the Ruwanweliseya stupa, Mirisavetiya temple and the Brazen Temple built by King Dutugemunu during the 2^nd century BC.

Various beautiful developments came into being with years including irrigation tanks, parks and stupas. This enhanced not just the center of commerce and religion but it shows off its rich culture a place to learn as it still stands holding thousands of years’ worth of knowledge and beauty.

Places to visit Anuradhapura

Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi

Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is a sacred Bo tree whichstands in the Mahamewna Gardens in Anuradhapura. Shocking as it seems this tree is the oldest tree in the word estimated to be about 2200 years old. Its origin began with the planting of the branch by Princess Sanghamitta, the branch from the Bo tree beneath which Buddha himself found enlightenment.

It still stands enclosed in a golden railing even with all the decades that’s passed and is awed by all those who sets their eyes upon it.

Ruwanwelisaya

This is a dome which is built over the sacred relics the bodily remains of the Buddha. It was built in 140 BC by King Dutugemunu. It’s a sight to behold,filled with ancient pools, columns and carvings a place to learn more about the ancient culture of Sri Lanka.

The Brazen Palace – Lovamahapaya

Lovamahapayais also known as ‘The Brazen Palace ‘, was built by KingDutugemunu. It gained this name due to the bronze tiled roof it once featured. The Palace was burnt down 15 years after it was built. It is said to have had 9 levels with thousand rooms before its surmise.Today the ruin still stands but what’s left of the Brazen Palace are the 1,600 neatly aligned granite columns.

Thuparama Dagaba

Thuparama Dagabs was built by King Devanampiya Tissa to enshrine the Buddha’s collar bone. Thuparamaya Dagaba holds great significance to Sri Lankan Buddhists, as it is believed to house a relic of the Buddha. The stupa is also an important site for pilgrimage and meditation. Devotees come from all over the world to pay their respects, offer prayers, and seek blessings. 

Kuttam Pokuna – The Twin Ponds

Thousands of years old twin ponds was the8th and 9th century ritual baths, used by Buddhist monks.Water was transferred through underground ducts. Apart from its beauty the twin ponds are very functional with a water filtration system. 

Abhayagiri Vihāra 

Abhayagiri Vihāra was the largest monastery in Sri Lanka. In the grounds of the Abhayagiri you will see some of the most beautiful architecture and sculpture in Anuradhapura. Beautifully carved moonstones from the 7th to 8th century are on display, as well as spectacular bathing ponds.

Samadhi Buddha Statue

The Samadhi Statue is situated at Mahamevnawa Park in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Samadhi means a state of deep meditation. The Buddha in meditative pose is acknowledged worldwide as a masterpiece bringing back the 4^th century historical values and culture back to life.

Jetavanaramaya Temple

Jetavanaramaya Temple was one of the tallest stupas in the world. It was built by King Mahasena in the 3rd century. The stupa is an architectural marvel and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area from its summit.

Activities in Anuradhapura

Experience the Spiritual Significance of Mihinthale

Mihinthale is situated close to Anuradhapura. A climb to see the view from the top of the hills are breathtaking. Many ruins and temples are a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. 

Isurumuniya 

If you’re a person interested in ancient arts Isurumuniya temple isfamous for its stone carvings. Famous carvings such as ‘Isurumuniya Lovers’, ‘Horseman’, ‘Elephant Pond’ and the ‘Royal family will not escape the viewer’s eyes. If you’re in Anuradhapura a visit to this temple should be in top of your bucket list.

Yapahuwa Rock Fortress

Yapahuwa Rock Fortress is situated between Anuradhapura and Kurunegala.The Fortress is spectacular andthe temple consists of 800 year old paintings.

Foods and shops

Indulge in the variety of flavors of food bought to you with a mixture of Ceylon spices and flavors. Restaurants offer traditional Sri Lankan foods and other varieties based on your cravings. Also have a look around the amazing town of this historical place and be sure to let your taste buds indulge in authentic Sri Lankan cuisines. Take back memories from various shops that provide unique artifacts representing Sri Lanka’s ancient culture.

Best time to visit

December to February is the best time to visit this beautiful city. During these months the weather is dry and comfortable. The reason for this is normally temperature rises to about 37degree Celsius where as in the colder months the temperature drops to about 21degree Celsius.If you are interested in touring the city during the day, the sun stays up longest in the month of July unlike October which sees rainy days mostly.So if you’re looking to stay dry visit in the month of July.

Ways to travel to Anuradhapura

There are many ways you can get to you destination.

Traveling by car from Colombo to Anuradhapura

You have to travel 212km if you’re going in a private car or taxi. It will take you a total of 3 hours and 45 minutes.

Traveling by bus from Colombo to Anuradhapura

If you’re looking for a way to reduce your travel cost bus would be a good option. There are regular buses both air conditioned and non-air conditioned.  It would take you about 5 hours and 15 minutes to reach your destination.

Traveling by Train from Colombo to Anuradhapura

The cheapest and convenient form of travel is by train. It takes about 5 hours to reach the city. This is the best option if you’re looking for a budget option due to lesser travel cost.

Make sure to visit this beautiful historical city and take back amazing unforgettable memories. You will for sure enjoy the rich culture, ancient archeological buildings friendly people. Let it be your experience of a life time where you visit an era thousands of years ago for it still stands to show its ancient wonders.