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Anuradhapura
An ancient capital and UNESCO World Heritage site with sprawling stupas, sacred bo trees and tank-fed ruins.
About Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura was Sri Lanka's first capital and remains a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage city — colossal white stupas, monastic ruins and the Sri Maha Bodhi, grown from a cutting of the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment.
Best time to visit
May to September is hottest; December to March is cooler. Visit early morning to beat the heat and the pilgrim crowds at the Sri Maha Bodhi.
Getting there
About 5 hours from Colombo by road (200 km), in the north-central plains. Most travellers loop it with Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa and Dambulla on a cultural-triangle tour.
Things to do in Anuradhapura
- Tour the giant Ruwanwelisaya and Jetavanarama stupas
- Visit the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree
- Explore the Isurumuniya rock temple and carvings
- Combine with Sigiriya and Dambulla on a culture loop
