Anuradhapura
Capital of Sri Lanka for 1,400 years and home to the oldest recorded tree on earth
Anuradhapura was the capital of Sri Lanka from the 4th century BC until the 11th century AD - roughly 1,400 years, making it one of the longest continuously inhabited capitals in the ancient world. The ruins spread over an enormous area of dagobas, monasteries, palaces, bathing tanks and irrigation works that were engineering marvels of their age. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains an active pilgrimage centre.
The Sri Maha Bodhi
A sacred fig grown from a cutting of the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment, planted here in 288 BC. It is the oldest human-planted tree in the world with a continuous documented history, and it has been tended without interruption for over 2,300 years. White clothing is customary and the atmosphere is devotional rather than touristic.
The great dagobas
Ruwanwelisaya, built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BC, is the one most visitors remember - brilliant white, ringed by a wall of stone elephants. Jetavanaramaya was, at roughly 122 metres when complete, among the tallest structures in the ancient world, behind only two of the Egyptian pyramids, and used an estimated 93 million bricks.
Abhayagiri and Thuparamaya complete the set, the latter being the oldest dagoba in the country. Isurumuniya, with its carved lovers relief, is small but the finest sculpture on the site.
How to see it
The site is far too spread out to walk - distances between the major monuments run to several kilometres. Cycling is popular; having a vehicle and driver is easier in the heat, which is considerable, as Anuradhapura sits in the dry zone.
Start at 7am. Bring water, a hat, and something to cover shoulders and knees for the sacred precincts.
Highlights of Anuradhapura
- Sri Maha Bodhi - oldest documented planted tree on earth
- Ruwanwelisaya dagoba and its elephant wall
- Jetavanaramaya, once among the world's tallest buildings
- Isurumuniya rock temple and the Lovers relief
- Ancient tanks and irrigation engineering still in use
Tours that visit Anuradhapura
Cultural Heritage Explorer - 4 Days
Experience the ancient wonders and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka on this compact 4-day tour covering Anuradhapura, Sigiriya, and Kandy.
Complete Sri Lanka Explorer - 10 Days
Experience the best of Sri Lanka from ancient cities to wildlife safaris and hill country adventures on this comprehensive 10-day tour.
Ultimate Sri Lanka Discovery - 20 Days
Experience the most comprehensive Sri Lankan journey covering ancient cities, pristine beaches, wildlife, Adam's Peak pilgrimage, and cultural highlights.
Anuradhapura - frequently asked questions
Half a day covers the headline monuments - Sri Maha Bodhi, Ruwanwelisaya, Jetavanaramaya and Thuparamaya. A full day lets you add Abhayagiri, Isurumuniya and the Twin Ponds without hurrying in the heat.
Anuradhapura is older, larger, more spread out and still an active pilgrimage site. Polonnaruwa is more compact, better preserved and easier to see in a few hours. If you only have time for one and want ruins you can walk between, choose Polonnaruwa; for atmosphere and sacred sites, Anuradhapura.
Approximately USD 25-30 for the main archaeological site; some sacred areas including the Sri Maha Bodhi are ticketed separately. Entrance fees and opening times are set by the relevant Sri Lankan authority and change without notice. We confirm current rates for you before you travel and can arrange tickets on request.