The island’s first capital and the heart of the Cultural Triangle, a sprawling sacred city of stupas, monasteries and reservoirs, much of it more than two thousand years old and still very much in use.
Everything below can be worked into a longer island itinerary, say which appeal and we'll pace the days around them.
One of the largest and most significant Buddhist monuments in the world, built in the 2nd century BC.
A sacred Bo tree grown from a cutting of the tree the Buddha sat beneath, tended continuously for over two millennia.
Known as the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, with stone stairways, shrines and panoramic views.
A rock temple famous for its carvings, including the celebrated “Lovers” relief.
Carved from a single block of granite, and one of the finest depictions of meditative calm on the island.
An ancient monastic complex of rock-cut caves where monks once lived.
A tranquil rock-cut pool set among trees, historically used for bathing and meditation.
The twin bathing ponds of the ancient city, a masterpiece of hydraulic engineering still watertight today.
A colossal brick stupa at the heart of what was once one of the great monastic universities of the ancient world.
Sculptures, carvings and pottery that put the whole site in context, worth doing first.
Tell us when you're travelling and we'll shape a private itinerary that gives Anuradhapura the time it deserves.
