Anuradhapura

Overview

Anuradhapura, the first capital of Sri Lanka, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Founded in the 4th century BCE, it served as the capital for over 1,300 years and remains one of the most sacred cities for Buddhists worldwide.

The city is home to some of the most impressive Buddhist monuments in the world, including massive stupas (dagobas), ancient temples, and the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, which is said to be a sapling from the original Bodhi tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment.

Must-See Highlights

Sri Maha Bodhi

The sacred Bodhi tree, planted in 288 BCE, is the oldest living human-planted tree in the world with a known planting date.

Ruwanwelisaya Stupa

One of the tallest ancient monuments in the world, this massive white stupa stands 103 meters tall and contains relics of the Buddha.

Abhayagiri Monastery

Once one of the largest monastic institutions in the world, housing over 5,000 monks and featuring impressive architectural remains.

Twin Ponds

Ancient bathing ponds (Kuttam Pokuna) that showcase the advanced hydraulic engineering of the ancient Sinhalese.

Historical Significance

Anuradhapura's history spans over 2,300 years, making it one of the most important archaeological sites in South Asia. The city reached its zenith during the reign of King Dutugemunu (161-137 BCE), who unified the country and built many of the magnificent monuments that still stand today.

The city was not only a political capital but also a major center of Buddhist learning and culture. Monks from across Asia came to study at the great monasteries, and the city became a hub for the spread of Buddhism throughout the region.

Despite being abandoned as the capital in the 11th century CE, the sacred sites continued to be maintained by Buddhist monks, preserving the spiritual significance of the city for future generations.