Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s first ancient capital, flourished for over 1,300 years as a centre of Theravāda Buddhism. Home to colossal stupas, ornate monasteries and the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree, it reflects the island’s spiritual devotion and advanced ancient engineering. Today, it remains a revered pilgrimage site, blending living faith with awe inspiring archaeological grandeur.

• Oldest historically documented Bodhi tree
• Towering stupas with intricate architecture
• Advanced ancient irrigation systems
• Monastic complexes spanning vast landscapes
• Continuous Buddhist pilgrimage traditions
• UNESCO heritage since 1982

The Ancient City of Anuradhapura, established in the 4th century BC, stands as one of the greatest monastic cities of the ancient world. Revered as the birthplace of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist civilization, it became the political and spiritual heart of the island for over a millennium. The city’s focal point is the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a cutting from the original Bodhi tree in India under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. This living relic, planted over 2,300 years ago, continues to draw pilgrims from across the globe.

Massive dagobas such as Ruwanwelisaya, Jetavanaramaya and Abhayagiriya showcase architectural mastery, while finely carved moonstones, guard stones and stone pillars reflect artistic brilliance. Anuradhapura’s sophisticated reservoir and canal network reveals a deep understanding of hydraulic engineering, sustaining both agriculture and urban life.

Despite invasions and eventual abandonment in the 11th century, Anuradhapura’s ruins remain remarkably well preserved. Today, it is both an active pilgrimage hub and an archaeological wonder, where monks, devotees and travellers walk amidst remnants of palaces, monasteries and ceremonial bathing ponds. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982, Anuradhapura is not just a monument to the past, it is a living, breathing testament to Sri Lanka’s enduring spiritual and cultural heritage.