Anuradhapura is one of the most fascinating tourist places to visit in Sri Lanka, and a must-see stop on the Cultural Triangle. In this travel guide, you’ll find the top things to do and best places to visit in Anuradhapura, along with insider tips from our trip and advice on where to stay, eat, and get around this remarkable ancient city.
Once the island’s first royal capital, Anuradhapura is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with sacred stupas, peaceful monasteries, and ancient ruins that date back more than two millennia.
Walking through the ancient city of Anuradhapura feels like stepping into a living museum. Monks chant under the sacred Bodhi tree, pilgrims offer lotus flowers, and locals cycle past centuries-old ruins. Its history and spirituality are intertwined in daily life.
If you’re planning your Sri Lanka itinerary, Anuradhapura is absolutely worth visiting for its temples, peaceful atmosphere, and historical significance.
Did you know?
Anuradhapura was once one of the world’s largest and most advanced cities; the capital of ancient Sri Lanka for over 1,300 years. It’s home to the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree grown from a branch of the original Bodhi Tree in India under which Buddha attained enlightenment. More than 2,300 years later, the same tree still thrives — tended daily by local monks and worshippers.
Best Places to Visit in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Exploring Anuradhapura feels like walking through the pages of ancient Sri Lankan history. The city is vast but easy to explore by tuk-tuk or bicycle, with sacred temples, massive stupas, and peaceful monasteries scattered across the plains of Sri Lanka. You can easily spend a full day visiting these remarkable sites that showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage.
1. Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Tree
The most sacred site in Anuradhapura, this Bodhi tree is over 2,300 years old — the oldest tree in the world known to be planted by humans. It’s said to have grown from a cutting of the original Bodhi tree in India, under which Buddha attained enlightenment. Entrance: 200 LKR
We joined a ceremony here, watching locals offer flowers and prayers. The atmosphere was calm and spiritual, making it one of the most memorable sights in the Cultural Triangle.
2. Ruwanwelisaya Stupa
One of the most iconic temples in Sri Lanka, this enormous white stupa is visible from almost anywhere in Anuradhapura. Built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BC, it stands as a symbol of unity and devotion.
It’s one of the most important monuments in ancient Sri Lanka and remains a major pilgrimage site today.
3. Jetavanaramaya (Jetavanarama Dagoba)
Once one of the tallest brick structures in the world, Jetavanaramaya stands at nearly 400 feet.
It was built under King Mahasena and forms part of a large monastic complex that once housed thousands of monks.
There’s also a small museum nearby, but honestly, it’s not worth buying the expensive $25 USD ticket for this alone, since most of the outdoor temples are free (or only a small fee).
4. Thuparamaya Dagoba
Dating back to the 3rd century BC, Thuparamaya is said to be the first Buddhist stupa built in Sri Lanka after Buddhism was introduced to the island.
It is believed to enshrine the Buddha’s collarbone relic, making it a site of deep spiritual importance.
5. Abhayagiri Monastery
This ancient monastery complex was one of the largest in Asia and a centre of learning for centuries.
You can still walk through the remains of meditation halls, bathing pools, and moonstones — detailed half-moon-shaped carvings unique to ancient Sri Lankan architecture.
The peaceful setting gives a glimpse into monastic life more than 1,000 years ago.
6. Isurumuniya Rock Temple
This small but beautiful temple complex in Sri Lanka features detailed rock carvings, including the famous “Lovers of Isurumuniya.” You can also climb the short rocky hill for lovely panoramic views of the surrounding city and lakes. Entrance: 500 LKR
Tip: Combine your visit here with Ruwanwelisaya and Jetavanaramaya, they’re all close together.
7. Mihintale – The Birthplace of Buddhism
About 30 minutes from Anuradhapura, Mihintale is known as the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Climb the 1,840 steps to reach white stupas and panoramic viewpoints over the plains of Sri Lanka.
Entrance: 1,000 LKR
Transport: ~ 5,000 LKR return by tuk-tuk
We visited at sunset, and the views were magical: golden light, chanting monks, and a gentle breeze after the climb. If you’re planning a trip through Sri Lanka, this is a stop you simply shouldn’t miss.
8. Mirisawetiya Dagoba
Mirisawetiya Stupa (Mirisawetiya Vihara) is a memorial dagoba in Anuradhapura built by King Dutugamunu after he defeated King Elara. It’s said that he built it at the spot where his sceptre fell — a symbol of penance and devotion.
Though less visited than Ruwanwelisaya or Jetavanaramaya, Mirisawetiya offers a more serene experience. It covers a large area (about 50 acres) and has been renovated over the centuries by various kings. The architecture and surroundings are beautiful in their simplicity, making it a nice stop for quiet reflection.
How to Explore the Ancient City
The ancient city of Anuradhapura is vast, so plan half a day or even a day if you enjoy history and photography.
Tip: Hire a local guide who can share stories about Sri Lankan kings, Buddhism, and temple rituals, bringing the ruins to life.
The best way to explore and get around is by tuk-tuk to cover large distances and see everything in one go (~4-6,000 Rs).
Where to Eat in Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura isn’t known as a foodie hotspot, but it’s a great place to try authentic Sri Lankan cuisine in a laid-back setting. You’ll find small local cafés and family-run restaurants serving classic dishes like rice and curry, kottu roti, and fresh fruit juices.
Some good places to eat include:
- Sorriso Restaurant
- Mr. Karapincha
- Bro Restaurant
- Banana Café Coffee Shop
- Little Paradise Guesthouse
- Cafe 89 by Seedevi Family Restaurant
Expect to pay between 800–1,500 LKR per meal depending on the location.
Where to Stay in Anuradhapura
We stayed at Kutumbaya Resort Anuradhapura, and it quickly became one of our favourite places in the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka. The setting is peaceful and green, with a lovely pool, spacious rooms, and delicious home-cooked meals — the perfect spot to relax after exploring the ancient city.
Other great hotels in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka include:
- Heladiv Hotel Anuradhapura: modern comfort with a pool and on-site restaurant
- Heaven Upon Rice Fields: scenic and tranquil stay surrounded by nature
- Aryana Boutique Hotel: stylish mid-range option close to main attractions
- The Ivy Lake: cosy rooms and friendly hosts in a calm setting
How to Get to Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura lies in the northern plains of Sri Lanka, about:
- 5 hours from Colombo by train or bus
- 3 hours from Sigiriya or Dambulla by car or tuk-tuk
We took an air-conditioned bus and paid 4,600 Rs in cash on the spot. It was a smooth and comfortable 3-hour ride.
Tip: You can check schedules and availability on busseat.lk and sltb.eseat.lk though not every local route is listed online.
For more details on buses, trains, and tuk-tuks, read my full post on Getting Around Sri Lanka.
Practical Tips for Visiting Anuradhapura
- Best time to visit Anuradhapura ancient city: early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat
- Bring sunscreen, water, and a hat; shade is limited
- Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered)
- Carry small cash for entrances and donations
- Don’t buy the $25 combined ticket, most main sites are free or charge small fees separately
- Use Airalo eSIM for data & maps
- Get SafetyWing travel insurance for peace of mind
Above all, set up comprehensive travel insurance before your trip. We recommend SafetyWing Nomad Insurance for reliable coverage and peace of mind while travelling abroad. For more information and to get started, check out SafetyWing website.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Anuradhapura
Visiting Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka was one of the highlights of our journey through the Cultural Triangle. Between the grand stupas glowing in the sun, the spiritual calm under the sacred Bodhi Tree, and the serene atmosphere of Mihintale at sunset, every moment felt deeply special.
What I loved most was the blend of history and daily life — monks chanting, children feeding pigeons, and locals cycling past 2,000-year-old ruins as if time had stood still.
If you plan to visit the Cultural Triangle, start your trip in Anuradhapura. It’s not just an ancient city. It’s the heart of ancient Sri Lanka, where faith, heritage, and warm hospitality still shape everyday life.
Anuradhapura Map
Get Inspired
Join us on a journey through Sri Lanka — an island of ancient cities, misty tea fields, and golden beaches. During our 1-month trip, we explore Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, climb Pidurangala Rock in Sigiriya, visit the Dambulla Cave Temples, and step inside Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth. We’ll also taste tea in Nuwara Eliya, ride the scenic train to Ella for the Nine Arches Bridge, and relax on the south coast at Dickwella, Hiriketiya, Mirissa, and Unawatuna.
Sri Lanka is packed with history, culture, and natural beauty — this video is your perfect inspiration for planning a trip across the island.
