visit Anuradhapura It’s like a journey back in time. This ancient city is home to some of the most important Buddhist sites in the world and is full of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. Whether you are a history buff or just looking for some unique travel experiences, Anuradhapura is worth a visit. Here are a few amazing places you can explore in this ancient city:
The historical significance of Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura is one of the oldest cities in Sri Lanka with a long and rich history. It was first settled in the 4th century BC and has been the capital of Sri Lanka for over 1000 years. It is home to some of the most impressive ancient sites in the country, which testify to its former glory. Today, Anuradhapura is a popular destination for tourists and Sri Lankans. There’s something really fascinating about this city, and it’s easy to see why it’s dubbed the “City of Jewels.” If you’re looking for an authentic Sri Lankan experience, Anuradhapura is worth a visit.
Visit the iconic Ruwanweliseya Stupa

Upon entering the complex, I was overwhelmed by the sheer size of the Ruwanweliseya Stupa. This is Anuradhapura’s iconic attraction, and it’s easy to see why. The stupa is a massive structure towering over everything else in the complex. It is made entirely of bricks and the dome is covered with golden spires. I couldn’t help but be dumbfounded as I walked around it admiring the intricate carvings and beautiful details. This is a must-see for anyone visiting Anuradhapura – it’s one of the city’s most iconic sights and well worth taking some time to explore.
explore ancient times archeology the treasure
Anuradhapura, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka, is home to some of the most important Buddhist temples and sites in the country. It is an archaeological treasure trove with buildings and monuments dating back to the 4th century BC. This was my first visit to Anuradhapura and I was overwhelmed by the beauty and serenity of the city. Walking among the ruins, you can feel the history and culture accumulated over the centuries. It was an amazing experience to be able to see these ancient ruins up close. If you’re looking for a destination off the beaten track in Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura is worth a visit.
Soar above everything in a hot air balloon
One of my favorite experiences in Anuradhapura is flying over the area in a hot air balloon. You get a bird’s-eye view of the ruins and surrounding countryside. The sunrises are breathtaking and you can see for miles as you soar through the sky. I also love talking to experienced local pilots who know all the best float spots and can often point out interesting landmarks or places along the way.
Every flight is different depending on the direction of the wind, but no matter which route you choose, you can be guaranteed awe-inspiring views. It’s one thing to visit ancient ruins on foot, and quite another to witness them from above in a hot air balloon – it’s seeing things in a whole new way. If you have the time and your budget allows, then I highly recommend you try this experience in Anuradhapura!
Retreat to Tissaviva
If you’re looking for calm and to get in touch with your spiritual side, I suggest you retreat to an ancient reservoir called Tissa Wewa. Not only does it have a beautiful lake, but it is also surrounded by temples and shrines. Every corner of Tissa Wewa tells a fascinating story. It’s easy to feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you wander around, as the ruins of King Dutugamunu’s palace remain today.
A huge stone statue of Buddha also stands high in the center, creating a truly surreal experience. When I visited this place, I was overwhelmed by a sense of serenity and awe – seeing the carefully crafted walls and exquisite architecture gave me a great appreciation for Sri Lankan culture. It is a great honor to be part of such a fascinating place that has been largely overlooked by the modern world. What a spiritual experience!
Visit meaningful monuments
Isurumuniya Vihara and Mirisaveti Stupa are two of the most important monuments in Anuradhapura. They’ve all been around for centuries and still shine as brightly as ever; a testament to the strength of this ancient city. The Isurumuniya Vihara (or temple) is believed to have been built in the 3rd century BC, but what remains today is of a later date. It is famous for its beautiful carvings, such as that of Prince Salia and his beloved Asokamara can be found on one of the stone walls. One can also find an interesting stone bath within the temple grounds which have been fed by waterways since ancient times!
Mirisaveti Stupa is also a landscape. It was built in 249 BC and is 55 meters high. Although it was damaged several times by floods and other natural disasters, each time it was meticulously restored by kings who recognized its great historical value. Today it stands majestically amongst lush green gardens and palm trees – a real sight to behold!
Anuradhapura is a city full of history and Buddhism. It is home to some of the oldest ruins in Sri Lanka as well as some of the best preserved Buddhist temples. If you’re looking for a destination off the beaten track to explore, Anuradhapura is worth considering.



