Things to Do in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is home to the sacred Bodhi Tree, believed to be a direct descendant of the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment in India.

The city was the first capital of Sri Lanka and one of the world's oldest cities with continuous habitation dating back to the 5th century BCE.

The massive Ruwanwella Stupa, built in the 2nd century BCE, is one of the largest brick structures in the world and remains largely intact.

Anuradhapura's ancient irrigation system of tanks (reservoirs) is a UNESCO-recognized engineering marvel that still supplies water to rice paddies today.

The city is entirely closed to vehicle traffic in its Sacred Area, making it one of the world's largest car-free heritage zones at approximately 40 square kilometres.

Anuradhapura has more intact ancient Buddhist monuments than any other city in the world, with over 5,000 years of continuous Buddhist pilgrimage.