Anuradhapura Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and tips for visiting Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is a city located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. This ancient city holds a significant religious, cultural, and political importance to the country, influencing the country’s history and development. The city is dotted with a wide range of attractions from historical sites to natural wonders, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. In this guide, we will take you through the most exciting things to do in Anuradhapura.

List of Places to Visit in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura has numerous attractions that will take you on a journey to the past while allowing you to enjoy the present. Below are the must-visit places in Anuradhapura.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sri Maha Bodhi Tree - The Sri Maha Bodhi Tree is a sacred fig tree that is said to have grown from a cutting of the original fig tree under which Buddha achieved enlightenment.

  • Mihintale - Mihintale is a mountain peak located a few kilometers east of Anuradhapura, and it is considered the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. It is an essential pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

  • Abhayagiri Dagoba - Abhayagiri Dagoba is a significant Buddhist temple in Anuradhapura, built-in 88 BC. It is home to a 12m tall statue of the Buddha.

  • Jetavanaramaya - Jetavanaramaya is another significant Buddhist temple and monastic complex where novice monks and pilgrims come to light candles and make offerings.

Natural Attractions of Anuradhapura: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wilpattu National Park - Wilpattu National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s most significant wild reserves, with a variety of species that can be spotted on the game drives. It’s known for its leopards, elephants, and sloth bears.

  • Tissa Wewa - Tissa Wewa is an ancient reservoir and pilgrimage site that dates back to the 3rd century BC. The lake is used for irrigation and is surrounded by stunning landscapes.

  • Isurumuniya Vihara - This rock temple boasts of the best-preserved ancient Sri Lankan stone carvings. It’s also located overlooking a charming lotus pond.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Anuradhapura

The best way to explore Anuradhapura is by bike or foot to soak up the area’s peaceful atmosphere and see how the town bustles with life. Below are some hiking and biking routes that you can explore.

  • Anuradhapura Ancient City - Anuradhapura Ancient City has many bike rental shops, and there are several routes around the ancient city, which takes around 5-6 hours to cover.

  • Minneriya-Giritale Nature Trail - The Minneriya-Giritale Nature Trail takes you through the abundant vegetation and national parks, covering about 60km.

  • WIlpattu National Park Trail - The Wilpattu National Park Trail takes you through the park, and you will see a significant population of leopards, sloth bears, and elephants.

Best Things to Do in Anuradhapura: Activities and Tours

Check out some of the exciting things to do in Anuradhapura that will enrich your experience in the city.

  • Nighttime Tour by Tuk Tuk - A nighttime tour by tuk-tuk is a great way to see the well-lit temples without the crowds.

  • Cooking Classes with Locals - Cooking classes with locals will give you the opportunity to learn new recipes and have a taste of delicious local cuisine.

  • Elephant Safari in Minneriya National Park - An elephant safari in Minneriya National Park will take you through the park’s open grasslands, where you’ll get to see various species of wildlife.

Week-Long Itinerary for Anuradhapura

A week-long itinerary for Anuradhapura includes;

Day Activity
1 Explore the Anuradhapura Ancient City, Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, and Abhayagiri Dagoba.
2 Visit the Jetavanaramaya and Isurumuniya Vihara.
3 Take a bike tour around Anuradhapura.
4 Go hiking at Wilpattu National Park.
5 Have a day tour in Minneriya National Park.
6 Culinary tour at Anuradhapura.
7 Relax and enjoy the attractions of Anuradhapura.

Food and Drink Scene of Anuradhapura

The Anuradhapura food scene features a range of flavorsome dishes, and here are some of the must-try foods and drinks.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kottu Roti - Kottu Roti is a dish made from godamba roti, vegetables, and chicken or beef are then placed on a heated iron pan and cut with two large blades.

  • Hoppers - Hoppers are a Sri Lankan classic breakfast dish made from fermented rice flour, water, and coconut milk.

  • Pol Sambol - Pol Sambol is made from freshly grated coconut mixed with Red Chili Powder and a few spices.

Local Beverages

  • Tea - Sri Lanka is famous for its high-quality tea, and Anuradhapura is no exception.

  • Arrack - Arrack is a Sri Lankan alcoholic beverage made from fermented coconut nectar and is commonly consumed in Anuradhapura.

Where to Stay in Anuradhapura: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Anuradhapura has an array of accommodations with something to suit any budget. Here are some of the top places to stay in Anuradhapura.

  • Ulagalla by Uga Escapes - Set amidst the paddy fields, Ulagalla by Uga Escapes is a luxury boutique hotel with a spa, outdoor pool, and activities like bird watching and cycling tours.

  • Ceylon Lodge - Ceylon Lodge is a mid-range hotel located in the heart of Anuradhapura, and it offers clean and comfortable rooms and a swimming pool.

  • Café Noir Guest House - Café Noir Guest House is an excellent budget option for those who want to experience Anuradhapura’s town without breaking the bank.

What to Buy in Anuradhapura: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Anuradhapura is known for its locally produced handicrafts, so don’t forget to bring some of these souvenirs home with you.

  • Wooden elephants - Wooden elephants are a popular souvenir in Anuradhapura and are available in a range of sizes.

  • Sarongs - Sarongs are highly colorful and eye-catching along the Anuradhapura streets and are a must-buy.

  • Hand-woven baskets - Hand-woven baskets are a traditional handicraft used in everyday activities like carrying produce, and it can be used for storage in modern homes.

Local Culture and Customs of Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is a conservative city, so visitors are expected to dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Make sure to remove footwear, hats, and sunglasses while visiting temples or other religious sites. When visiting someone’s home or a temple, it is customary to take your shoes off before entering.

Best Time to Visit Anuradhapura

The best time to visit Anuradhapura is between December and April, as the weather is dry and there’s plenty of sunshine. The period lasting from May to September tends to be rainy, and October/November months can be extremely humid.

Do’s and Don’ts of Anuradhapura

Do:

  • Dress appropriately for religious sites, covering shoulders and legs.
  • Respect Buddhist customs and beliefs.
  • Take off shoes before entering homes, temples or other religious sites.

Don’t:

  • Pick flowers or pluck the trees leaves around the temples.
  • Express public displays of affection in sacred places or in public.
  • Play loud music as it can disturb the peace of the city.

Safety and Health

Safety in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is generally safe, and tourists should take standard cautions like not drinking excessive amounts of alcohol and not traveling alone at night.

Health in Anuradhapura

Tourists must take precautions like using mosquito nets, wearing insect repellents, and drinking bottled water. Medical facilities in Anuradhapura are good, but it is advised to have travel insurance in case.

Getting to Anuradhapura: Transportation Options and Logistics

Anuradhapura is easy to reach with different transportation options available.

Airports Near Anuradhapura

The nearest airport to Anuradhapura is the Bandaranaike International Airport, located in Colombo around 200km away.

Bus Stations Near Anuradhapura

The Anuradhapura Bus Station is located in the town center, where buses arrive and depart to various parts of the country.

Other Options

The most convenient way to get to Anuradhapura is by hiring a taxi or private car service from the airport.

How to Get Around in Anuradhapura

It’s easy to explore Anuradhapura by bike or tuk-tuks, which are readily available for rent or hire most of the day. Walking and cycling are two of the most popular ways to explore the city, too, as most of the tourist attractions are conveniently located within the walking distance from each other.

Where to Go Next from Anuradhapura: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Anuradhapura is conveniently located near some prominent destinations that are worth exploring, including:

  • Sigiriya - Sigiriya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just 77km northeast of Anuradhapura. It is famous for the ancient rock fortress with imposing rock formations.

  • Dambulla - Dambulla is famous for its cave temples and is just 65km from Anuradhapura.

  • Kandy - Kandy is the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, located 127km southeast of Anuradhapura, and is known for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and tranquil ambiance.

Conclusion

Anuradhapura is a beautiful city, rich in history, culture, and tradition. The stunning landscape, friendly people, and delicious cuisine make it a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka. We hope that this comprehensive tour guide helps you to plan your itinerary to Anuradhapura and have an unforgettable trip.