Ceylonic Tours

Anuradhapura City Day Tour

Day Tour

“Unveil the grandeur of Sri Lanka’s ancient capital with our Anuradhapura Day Tour

Anuradhapura City Tour Highlights

As one of the island’s oldest and most significant historical sites, Anuradhapura offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and religious heritage. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its well-preserved ruins, majestic stupas, and sacred Buddhist monuments, providing an immersive experience into Sri Lanka’s ancient civilization.

Sacred Bodhi Tree (Sri Maha Bodhi)

Begin your journey at the Sacred Bodhi Tree, one of the most revered Buddhist relics in Sri Lanka. Planted in 288 BC from a sapling of the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment, it is the oldest living human-planted tree with a recorded planting date. The tree holds immense religious significance and is a focal point for pilgrims and visitors alike.

Ruwanwelisaya Stupa

Visit the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, an iconic symbol of Anuradhapura’s grandeur. Constructed in 140 BC by King Dutugemunu, this colossal stupa was designed to enshrine relics of the Buddha and commemorate his teachings. As one of the largest stupas in the world, its imposing structure and serene surroundings offer a glimpse into the spiritual and architectural achievements of ancient Sri Lanka.

Jetavanaramaya Stupa

Explore the Jetavanaramaya Stupa, which was once the tallest brick structure in the world. Erected in the 3rd century AD by King Mahasena, this monumental stupa stands at 122 meters and is a testament to the sophisticated engineering skills of the time. The stupa’s impressive size and intricate design highlight the grandeur of Anuradhapura’s ancient Buddhist tradition.

Thuparamaya Stupa

Explore the historic Thuparamaya Stupa in Anuradhapura, one of Sri Lanka’s oldest and most sacred stupas. This ancient monument, revered for its relics of the Buddha, reflects the grandeur of early Buddhist architecture and offers a profound glimpse into the island’s spiritual heritage.

Abhayagiri Monastery

Discover the Abhayagiri Monastery, a sprawling complex that was one of the most influential monastic centers in ancient Sri Lanka. Founded by King Vattagamani Abhaya in the 1st century BC, the monastery was a hub of Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism. Explore its ruins, including the Abhayagiri Stupa, intricately carved moonstones, and ancient monastic buildings, reflecting the rich spiritual and educational heritage of the period.

Twin Ponds

Admire the Twin Ponds, or Kuttam Pokuna, an ancient bathing complex renowned for its architectural brilliance. Constructed in the 8th century AD, these meticulously designed stone ponds feature intricate carvings and a symmetrical layout, showcasing the advanced hydraulic engineering of ancient Sri Lanka. The ponds served as bathing and ritualistic sites for monks and royalty

Isurumuniya Temple

Visit the Isurumuniya Temple, famous for its exquisite rock carvings and historical significance. The temple is known for the “Isurumuniya Lovers” rock carving, depicting a romantic couple, and the Elephant Pond, featuring finely sculpted elephant figures. This temple provides insight into the artistic and cultural expressions of the ancient Sinhalese.

Sacred Bodhi Tree (Sri Maha Bodhi)

Begin your journey at the Sacred Bodhi Tree, one of the most revered Buddhist relics in Sri Lanka. Planted in 288 BC from a sapling of the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment, it is the oldest living human-planted tree with a recorded planting date. The tree holds immense religious significance and is a focal point for pilgrims and visitors alike.

Ruwanwelisaya Stupa

Visit the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, an iconic symbol of Anuradhapura’s grandeur. Constructed in 140 BC by King Dutugemunu, this colossal stupa was designed to enshrine relics of the Buddha and commemorate his teachings. As one of the largest stupas in the world, its imposing structure and serene surroundings offer a glimpse into the spiritual and architectural achievements of ancient Sri Lanka.

Jetavanaramaya Stupa

Explore the Jetavanaramaya Stupa, which was once the tallest brick structure in the world. Erected in the 3rd century AD by King Mahasena, this monumental stupa stands at 122 meters and is a testament to the sophisticated engineering skills of the time. The stupa’s impressive size and intricate design highlight the grandeur of Anuradhapura’s ancient Buddhist tradition.

Thuparamaya Stupa

Explore the historic Thuparamaya Stupa in Anuradhapura, one of Sri Lanka’s oldest and most sacred stupas. This ancient monument, revered for its relics of the Buddha, reflects the grandeur of early Buddhist architecture and offers a profound glimpse into the island’s spiritual heritage.

Abhayagiri Monastery

Discover the Abhayagiri Monastery, a sprawling complex that was one of the most influential monastic centers in ancient Sri Lanka. Founded by King Vattagamani Abhaya in the 1st century BC, the monastery was a hub of Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism. Explore its ruins, including the Abhayagiri Stupa, intricately carved moonstones, and ancient monastic buildings, reflecting the rich spiritual and educational heritage of the period.

Twin Ponds

Admire the Twin Ponds, or Kuttam Pokuna, an ancient bathing complex renowned for its architectural brilliance. Constructed in the 8th century AD, these meticulously designed stone ponds feature intricate carvings and a symmetrical layout, showcasing the advanced hydraulic engineering of ancient Sri Lanka. The ponds served as bathing and ritualistic sites for monks and royalty

Isurumuniya Temple

Visit the Isurumuniya Temple, famous for its exquisite rock carvings and historical significance. The temple is known for the “Isurumuniya Lovers” rock carving, depicting a romantic couple, and the Elephant Pond, featuring finely sculpted elephant figures. This temple provides insight into the artistic and cultural expressions of the ancient Sinhalese.

Why Choose

Anuradhapura City Day Tour

Historical Immersion

Dive into Sri Lanka’s rich historical tapestry with visits to ancient monuments and sacred sites that have shaped the island’s cultural heritage.

Architectural Wonders

Marvel at the impressive stupas, intricate carvings, and sophisticated engineering feats that highlight the grandeur of ancient Anuradhapura.

Spiritual Experience

: Connect with the deep spiritual roots of Sri Lankan Buddhism at some of the most revered religious sites in the country.

Explore & Experience

Ancient Anuradhapura City

Tour Guidelines & Tips

Tour Type

Private Tour with English speaking Chauffeur Guide (Guides of other languages can be provided on request)

Tour Duration

The Anuradhapura Day Tour typically lasts around 10-12 hours, depending on your starting point and the time spent at each location.

Pick-Up and Drop-Off

We offer convenient pick-up and drop-off services from major cities like Colombo and Kandy, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey to and from Anuradhapura.

What to Bring

Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking, and bring sun protection. Modest attire is recommended for visiting religious sites. A camera is essential to capture the historic beauty of Anuradhapura.

Need to Know

Can it be tailor-made?

Yes, we can customize the tour for you. If you wish to go to any place not mentioned in the route, simply inform us in advance and we will make the arrangements.

When to go?

If leaving from Colombo,it would be preferable to depart before 6:00 A.M.

What will transfers cover?

Pickup from Hotel – Tour Attractions – Drop at your Hotel.

Join Us for a Timeless Exploration

Step into the ancient world of Anuradhapura with our comprehensive day tour. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply curious about Sri Lanka’s rich heritage, this tour offers a captivating journey through one of the island’s most significant historical cities. Book your Anuradhapura Day Tour today and experience the profound legacy of Sri Lanka’s ancient capital.

 

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

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