Ancient Anuradhapura

By Author: Aaron Parker
Total Articles: 56
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Visit one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka for an amazing historical experience. Noteworthy for its well preserved ruins of the ancient civilization. The sacred city of Anuradhapura sits on the banks of Malvathu Oya and surrounded by enormous monasteries. A popular place of worship for Buddhists around the world, it is one of eight world heritage sites in Sri Lanka.

Perhaps more exciting for those who loves history and kingdoms, Anuradhapura is the best ancient vacation destination this time. The city also takes pride in the sacred Bo-Tree. There are eight great places of veneration you must fail to visit called the ‘Atamasthana’. They are Sri Maha Bodiya, Ruwanweliseya, Thuparamaya, Lovamahapaya, Abhayagiri Dagaba, Jetavanarama, Mirisaveti Stupa and Lankarama.

The ruins are mostly of three varieties. The dagobas which are bell shaped masses of brickwork. The dagobas has the capacity to occupy over twenty thousand people. Enormous in size, they are places of worship and awe-inspiring architecture. Ruins of monastic buildings are widespread in vicinity yet scattered into remnants of foundation, ...
... pillars or stone platforms. Pokunas are the third variety of ruins which are gigantic water tanks used for drinking water and bathing. These tanks are prevalent throughout the jungle. The numerous jungle trails and the signs will lead you through to many tanks in Anuradhapura. Dont forget to take your cameras for awesome pictures and beware of the monkeys who are the most inquisitive inhabitants of all in Anuradhapura.

The ancient city is quite large while the new city can be completed within half an hour. So getting around the city is quite easy with the help of abundant tuk-tuk taxis and buses.

Sri Maha Bodiya in Anuradhapura is the second most sacred site in Sri Lanka next to the Temple of Tooth in Kandy (another interesting destination). It is under this sacred Bo –Tree Lord Buddha gained enlightenment. Guarded over for centuries, enthusiastic travellers both local and international pay a visit.

The Archaeological Museum and the Folk Museum are great places of insight to those who doesn’t know head or tail of the ancient city of Anuradhapura. Artefacts like jewellery, gems, coins and plenty more are famous exhibits at the Archaeological Museum. Spend a fascinating tour around the museums while visiting the ancient capital of Anuradhapura.

Moonstones are everywhere in the ancient city and replicas of such in the new city of Anuradhapura. They were carved stones at the entrance of monasteries and noted for its impressive decoration and meaning.

Souvenir shops dot the entire city of Anuradhapura. From postcards, replica artefacts, wood carvings, jewellery, masks and many more are sold. Bargain to get the cheapest deals as the price are higher for tourists. Abundant shops just for you to bring back home lovely memories to home decors or present them as gifts to your loved ones.


There are number of guesthouses in the city for great accommodation from authentic Sri Lankan hot and spicy dishes to westernised cuisines. So plan a trip to Anuradhapura now! cheap flights to sri lanka , cheap flights to japan and cheap flights.