Places to visit in Anuradhapura

Sri Lanka’s first great capital: giant stupas, ancient reservoirs and the sacred Bo tree.

Main town AnuradhapuraPlaces in this guide 8
Colour Anuradhapura on my mapPlan a trip here

Places to see

Spiritual

Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi

Nuwaragam Palatha Central

The sacred fig tree in Anuradhapura, grown from a cutting of the tree of the Buddha’s enlightenment.

Best time: Jan–Sep

Spiritual

Ruwanwelisaya

Nuwaragam Palatha Central

The great white stupa of Anuradhapura, built by King Dutugemunu.

Best time: Jan–Sep

Heritage

Jetavanaramaya

Nuwaragam Palatha Central

A vast brick stupa, once among the tallest structures of the ancient world.

Best time: Jan–Sep

Heritage

Abhayagiri Vihara

Nuwaragam Palatha Central

Ruins of a great monastery in Anuradhapura, with a towering stupa and moonstones.

Best time: Jan–Sep

Spiritual

Isurumuniya

Nuwaragam Palatha Central

A rock temple known for its carving of the lovers, beside a pond in Anuradhapura.

Best time: Jan–Sep

Spiritual

Mihintale

Mihinthale

The hill where Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka, reached by a long stone stairway.

Best time: Jan–Sep

Heritage

Avukana Buddha

Ipalogama

A standing Buddha statue about 12 metres tall, carved from a single rock face.

Best time: Jan–Sep

Nature

Ritigala

Kekirawa

Forest monastery ruins on a jungle-covered mountain rising from the dry plains.

Best time: Jan–Sep

Food to try in Anuradhapura

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Festivals

  • Poson, Mihintale and Anuradhapura: Poson full moon (usually Jun). Marks the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka; pilgrims in white climb the steps of Mihintale.

Timings, permits and prices change. Check official sources before you travel.