All You Need to Know About the Ancient City of Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura City is the creation of Prince Pandukabhaya, which is the oldest capital in Sri Lanka. It was the capital of Sri Lanka for about 1400 years and is currently among the UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Arhat Mahinda Thera and his followers came to Sri Lanka, during the reign of King Devanampiyatissa(247-207 BC) and They introduced Buddhism to the country. Also, the Great Bo- Tree which is venerated by Buddhists, stands in this sacred land. It was a branch from the Sri Maha Bodhi in Buddha Gaya in India which Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. Furthermore, this tree was brought to Sri Lanka by Ven. Sangamitta Therini. The daughter of the emperor Asoka of India. King Devanampiyatissa gave a special place for it and planted it in his royal park, Maha Meghavana Udyanaya.
1. Ruwanweliseya Stupa
Along with the Sacred Bodhi tree, there is another significant monument of Ruwanweliseya Dagoba. At the initial stage, it is 55 meters tall and 370 feet circumference bubble-shaped dagoba. It is a creation of King Dutugemunu which was done in the 2nd century BC. This is another great work of King Dutugemunu and it is the third-largest stupa in Sri Lanka. Also, this stupa is among the tallest ancient stupas in the world.
2. Brazen Palace
Between the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi and Ruwanweliseya stupa, there is another wonderful creation of history, Lovamahapaya (Brazen Place). A building with a bright bronze roof that has 1600 stone pillars in 40 rows. It is believed that this building had nine stories that would accommodate 1,000 monks.
3. Avukana Buddha Image
Also, Anuradhapura is more famous for the Avukana Buddha Statue. This statue belongs to the 5th century AD, during the ruling period of King Datusena. This standing image of Buddha which is more than 40 feet tall, is carved by a large granite rock. This magnificent Avukana Buddha attracts visitors with its neatness and calmness, representing the skillful ancestors of Sri Lanka.
4. Isurumuniya Lovers
Another popular place in Anuradhapura is the carved block of granite of Isurumuniya Lovers, located near the Tisa Wewa. It is an attractive carving representing King Dutugemunu’s Son and his non-royal spouse Asokamala. It is similar to the carvings of the Gupta Dynasty style in the sixth century.
5. Jetavanarama Stupa
Jetavanarama Stupa is the largest stupa in Sri Lanka, which was built by King Mahasena. Also, this is the largest brick building and the third largest ancient structure after the great pyramids of Giza. It is currently 70m high, originally must have been at least 100m.
Significant monuments in Anuradhapura
Since Anuradhapura City with a long history, it is home to plenty of unmentioned, amazing chronicles. It will be worth having a visit to these places, while your travel journey in the ancient city. Also, the ruins of the Samadhi Buddha image, Kuttam Pokuna, and Royal Pleasure Gardens, are among the most significant ruins in Anuradhapura.
A visit to the ancient royal capital of Anuradhapura is a must to experience the great heritage of Sri Lanka’s travel guide.
Best Tour Packages to Anuradhapura
Want to have a vacation in the ancient city of Anuradhapura? Whatever your travel guide needs, we are ready to offer you a variety of tour packages, which cover Anuradhapura. Choose the best affordable tour packages to explore the wonder of land like no other.
- Ancient Capital Tour Package
- Cultural and Heritage Tour Package
- Sri Lanka History Tour Package
- Round Island Tour Package
- Anuradhapura City Tour
The Best Hotels in Anuradhapura
Explore the amazing cultural heritage of wonderful Sri Lanka while resting on a salubrious shelter on your own desire.
Luxury: Feel the true luxury with the best comfortable accommodation facilities. Such as Hotel Alakamanda, Hotel Rajarata, The Sanctuary at Tissawewa
Medium: Experience the best resting accommodations by choosing the most suitable rates from the hotels. Such as Hotel Heladiv, Heritage Hotel, Wasaala Leisure Anuradhapura
Budget: Choose the best budget options that fit your pocket with affordable accommodation facilities. Examples are Lavendish Mridiya Lake, Kanimandala Boutique Resort
