This gigantic dagoba was once the focus of a huge monastery and a wonder of the ancient world. Just the thought of the 75m (it was originally 100m) high Abhayagiri dagoba being built during the 1st century BC is enough to take your breath away. Of the four monumental stupas (Jetavana, Ruyanvelisaya, Mirisavati and Abhayagiri), Abhayagiri is the most impressive.
Thousands of devotees gather around the tree, especially on full-moon days and weekends. Princess Sangamitta, the sister of Mahinda (who introduced the Buddha’s teachings to Sri Lanka), brought the cutting from India.
The 2000-year-old tree is possibly the oldest Bodhi tree in the world and planted from a cutting from Bodhgaya in India.īesides being a holy tree, the tree also has a fascinating story. 2- Sri Maha Bodhi treeĭon’t miss the Sri Maha Bodhi, the sacred bodhi tree that is Anuradhapura’s central spiritual focus. The museum’s grounds have beautiful stone squat-style toilets carved by monks and other fascinating sculptures. The Archaeological Museum has a collection of artwork, carvings and historical items such as a restored relic chamber unearthed during the excavation of the Kantaka Chetiya dagoba in Mihintale. The top three places to visit in Anuradhapura are the Archaeological Museum, Sri Maha Bodhi and Abhayagiri Dagoba. The mound-like structure of the dagobas house relics used for meditation by Buddhist monks. When visiting Anuradhapura, you’re likely to catch some action at a local temple ceremony or school children on a study excursion or local women who are shy but willing to pose for photos.īesides the dagobas, which is what the Sinhalese call a Buddhist stupa, an aura of mystery shrouds the sprawling complex. Many of Anuradhapura’s ancient sites are still used as holy places and temples. Watch this video for some tips on places to visit in Anuradhapura and other parts of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle. Its located in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, on the banks of the Malvathu River. Later, the capital of Sri Lanka shifted to Polonnaruwa.Īnuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was the centre of Theravada Buddhism for centuries. It’s one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.Īnuradhapura is 205 km (127 miles) north of Colombo. This was between the fourth century BC until the 11th century AD. I’d venture to say that of all the historic places to visit in Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura is my favourite so if you’re planning a longer trip around the country take a look at our 10 days in Sri Lanka itinerary.Īnuradhapura’s temples were constructed during the time when Sinhalese kings ruled over Sri Lanka. The scale of this World Heritage site is jaw dropping and there are several places to visit in Anuradhapura where you will be filled with wonder. As you explore the giant dagobas and soaring brick towers, you’re sure to wonder how the architects managed to design such huge monuments back in those times. The following places are some of the best Places to visit in Polonnaruwa as they represent the culture and heritage of the Sri Lankan land.Anuradhapura is a sprawling complex of ruins and impressive architectural wonders. Let us check out the Places to visit in Polonnaruwa that reflects the true Sri Lankan culture and heritage. The traditional essence of the true Sri Lankan culture can be found in the small towns and villages of Sri Lanka. But there are others things also apart from the beaches and scenery that attracts people from around the world. A small island with beautiful beaches and the lush scenery is truly a traveler’s paradise. The beautiful island of Sri Lanka is a famous tourist destination for people across the world.