Anuradhapura

If you are thinking about the historical or religious side of Sri Lanka, then Anuradhapura is the city that you must look for.

This isn’t just another old city, to be honest. It’s one of the world’s oldest continuously well-protected places, with a story that stretches back to the 4th century BCE.

Anuradhapura has really become a tourist famous area due to its history and as a matter of fact. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site that draws people from all corners of the globe.

However, tourist usually find difficulties when visiting here. As there is no proper guidance in what places that they should visit.

Therefore, this guide will walk you through five must-visit places that captures the essence of Anuradhapura.

In that way, you will get a deeper understanding of its historical significance and cultural aspects from a clear point of view.

Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi

The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi isn’t just any tree that you see.

It’s possibly the most important tree in the world for Buddhists.

The reason for that is this sacred fig tree is a part of the original Bodhi tree. Where Lord Buddha achieved enlightenment in India.

As a matter of fact, this tree is a living connection to Buddhist history that has been carefully protected for over two thousand years.

Moving on, right in the heart of Anuradhapura. The tree is surrounded by protective walls and cared for by dedicated guardians.

So when you are visiting here, make sure to go there with a deep respect.

This is because, people often walk around the tree while offering prayers and performing traditional rituals in a way.

In addition to that, the area around the tree is well-maintained, with golden railings and carefully designed pathways that creates a peaceful atmosphere.

Therefore, this is a must-visit place. If you are into the religion of Buddhism or shows interest in knowing about the religion around the historical site.

Ruwanwelisaya

The Ruwanwelisaya, or the Great Stupa, is an architectural work that highlights the religion of Buddhism in Anuradhapura.

It was built during King Dutugemunu’s reign in the 2nd century BCE.

Here is an interesting fact: This massive white stupa stands about 55 meters high and takes around 290 meters in circumference.

It’s not just a religious monument. As a matter of fact,  it’s a powerful mark of ancient Sri Lankan engineering and artistic skills.

Now, let’s go into the details of it.

The stupa’s glowing white exterior creates a stunning contrast against the sky. Which people usually call it as  the “Mahathupa” or “Great Stupa.”

The design is incredibly precise, with a perfect hemispherical shape that shows the understanding of ancient Buddhist tradition.

Moreover, you can find out elephant sculptures at the base as protecting guards. While the surrounding area includes smaller stupas and beautifully maintained gardens.

Usually, visitors are coming back here not just by its incredible architecture, but by its deep spiritual designs.

Remember that Buddhist tradition holds that the stupa contains important Buddha relics.

Therefore, during religious festivals, the stupa will be light up with either white LED lights or colours of the Buddhist flag, which is quite fascinating to see.

Abhayagiri Monastery

Abhayagiri Monastery shows the view of ancient Sri Lankan monastic aspects.

It was founded in the 2nd century BCE, where it was once one of the most important Buddhist learning centers in the world.

As a matter of fact, Abhayagiri Monastery attracted scholars and monks from across Asia.

In other words, it wasn’t just a religious place where people could visit. It was a perfect educational and cultural institution for monks in a way.

Now, the credits must go to people who have built it.

This is because, archaeological work has revealed the monastery’s incredible scale, with a number of buildings, lecture halls, libraries, and living quarters for monks.

Here’s something interesting: The name “Abhayagiri” means “Mountain of Protection” or “Fearless Mountain,” which shows its historical role as a safety of learning.

Moreover, this place has an advanced hydraulic engineering, with complex water management systems that demonstrates the technological aspects of ancient Sri Lankan civilization.

This is quite amazing right?

Well, today, visitors like you can explore the ruins that gives out views of the monastery’s former glory.

Therefore, make sure to check out this wonderful place, once you are in Anuradhapura.

Thuparamaya

Thuparamaya holds a special place in Sri Lankan history as the first stupa that was in the country after Buddhism was introduced in the 3rd century BCE.

While it might be smaller than other stupas in Anuradhapura, its historical and cultural importance is so much more valuable.

This stupa represents the earliest architectural aspects of Buddhist culture in Sri Lanka.

In addition to that, it is noteworthy to mention that you will find this ancient stupa with the presence of a temple.

So, other than the stupa, you can go through other areas of the temple as well.

Moving on, its architectural style is simple yet elegant because it shows you the Buddhist unique principles in a beutiful way.

Therefore, for visitors like you, Thuparamaya gives out more than just religious facts.

Because it shares with you a wonderful connection to the religion of Buddhism from a foreign philosophy to a core part of Sri Lankan cultural identity.

Jetavanaramaya

Jetavanaramaya is a beautiful place in Sri Lankan that holds the culture and the Buddist religion.

When it was under the construction in the 3rd century CE, this stupa was the third-tallest structure in the world, right after the pyramids of Giza.

Moving on, reaching an estimated height of 122 meters, it represents the peak of ancient Sri Lankan engineering and construction capabilities.

The scale of Jetavanaramaya is absolutely amazing.

It was constructed by using millions of bricks where it required extraordinary planning, resources, and skilled labor.

As per the historical statements, this was not quite easy to build up. As you know, back in time, there was no advanced machinery, so it was all labor work that took this much work.

Even though environmental factors have reduced its original height, the remaining structure still shows you the sense of its purpose.

In fact, archaeologists believe that Jetavanaramaya was more than just a religious monument sight.

It was a powerful political statement that showcases the technological side of the ancient Sinhalese kingdom.

Therefore, today, it continues to attract historians, architects, and curious travelers from around the world.

Anuradhapura is far more than a collection of historical sites.

Eventhough throughout in this guide, we focused on main religious attractions in Anuradhapura you can still do fun activities that are around.

To be honest, it’s a journey through time, spirituality, and cultural evolution.

So, if you are interested to know about the Sri Lankan religion or shows interest to learn about unique aspects of Sri Lanka, visiting here is the best option that you have.

Therefore, plan ahead and be respectful when visiting these places to get a memorable experience.