The first great capital of Sri Lanka, with giant stupas, ancient monasteries and a sacred fig tree grown from a cutting of the Bodhi tree.
For around 1,300 years, from the 4th century BC to the early 11th century AD, Anuradhapura was the capital of Sri Lanka and one of the most important centres of Buddhism in the world. The ruins spread across a wide area of parks and lakes, and many of the monuments are still active places of worship.
Sri Maha Bodhi
At the heart of the sacred city is the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a fig tree grown from a cutting of the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment in India. It was planted in 288 BC, which makes it the oldest human-planted tree in the world with a known planting date. Pilgrims dressed in white bring offerings here every day.
The great stupas
- Ruwanwelisaya: the gleaming white dome built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BC, surrounded by a wall of carved elephants.
- Jetavanaramaya: a vast red-brick stupa that was one of the tallest structures of the ancient world.
- Abhayagiri: the centre of a monastery that once housed thousands of monks.
- Thuparamaya: said to be the oldest stupa in Sri Lanka.
Other highlights
The Isurumuniya rock temple has delicate carvings, including the "Lovers" sculpture. The twin pools of Kuttam Pokuna show the skill of ancient engineers. Just outside the city, Mihintale is where Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BC.
Tips
- Sites are spread out, so hire a bicycle or tuk-tuk.
- Wear white or light, modest clothing, and be ready to remove shoes at the stupas. The stone gets hot by midday.
