Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura: The First Capital of Sri Lanka
The first great capital of Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura is a place where time seems to stand still. Established in 377 BC, it flourished as the island’s political, spiritual, and cultural heart for over a millennium until 1017 AD. Recognized today as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, Anuradhapura is a destination of breathtaking scale and sacred devotion.
Walking among its ruins, you are surrounded by monumental dagobas, vast monastic complexes, and stone-carved masterpieces that reflect the golden age of Sinhalese civilization. Towering brick domes like Ruwanwelisaya, Jetavanaramaya, and Abhayagiri Dagoba dominate the skyline, while serene image houses and ancient reservoirs reveal the genius of early engineering and artistry.
Sacred Highlights
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi – The world’s oldest documented tree, planted in 288 BC from a sapling of the sacred Bodhi tree in India under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. Guarded for over 23 centuries, it remains one of Buddhism’s holiest relics.
Ruwanwelisaya – Built by King Dutugemunu in 140 BC, this gleaming white stupa is revered as one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred monuments. Seen by moonlight or illuminated at night, it is unforgettable.
Abhayagiri Dagoba – Once part of a vast monastery that served as an international Buddhist university. In its prime, it was one of the tallest structures in the world, second only to the Egyptian pyramids.
Jetavanaramaya – Built by King Mahasena in the 3rd century AD, this towering brick stupa was the third tallest structure in the ancient world, a marvel of ambition and devotion.
Lankaramaya and Lovamahapaya (Brazen Palace) – Remains of a colossal palace that once glittered with a roof of bronze tiles, reflecting the grandeur of ancient kings.
Masterpieces of Art & Stone
Samadhi Buddha Statue – A 4th-century AD masterpiece in dolomite marble, depicting the Buddha in serene meditation. Its calm beauty is profound when viewed beneath dappled sunlight.
Isurumuniya Lovers Rock Temple – Famous for its delicate carvings of lovers and celestial figures, this rock-cut shrine blends spirituality with romance.
Aukana Buddha Statue – A towering 40-foot standing Buddha from the 5th century, renowned for its grace and fine craftsmanship.
Moonstones & Guardstones (Sandakada Pahana) – Intricately carved stepping stones at temple entrances, rich in symbolic artistry.
Hydraulic Marvels
The brilliance of Anuradhapura lay not only in religion and architecture but also in engineering. Kings created vast reservoirs (“tanks”) to sustain the city and its thousands of monks.
Tissa Wewa & Nuwara Wewa – Still serene today, these man-made lakes reflect dagobas at sunset in a breathtaking display of light and water.
Kala Wewa – Another ancient reservoir that demonstrates the genius of water management over 2,000 years ago.
Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds) – Sophisticated bathing tanks for monks, showcasing advanced hydraulic design.
Museums & Ruins
Archaeological Museum – Preserves ancient artifacts, sculptures, and relics from Anuradhapura’s golden age.
Gedige Ruins – Lesser-known remains scattered throughout the sacred city.
Why Visit
Anuradhapura is not simply a ruined capital—it is a living, breathing sacred city. Monks in saffron robes still walk its paths, pilgrims continue to circle its stupas, and worshippers still pray beneath the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi as they have for centuries. Here, history and spirituality blend seamlessly, offering travelers an awe-inspiring journey into Sri Lanka’s ancient heart.