Anuradhapura Ancient City Guide – Sacred Temples & Timeless Ruins of Sri Lanka
By Tripceylon
Mon Jun 09 2025
10 mins read
Anuradhapura Ancient City Guide
Anuradhapura, the first capital of Sri Lanka and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, is a timeless symbol of Buddhist civilization and cultural pride. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts millennia-old temples, stupas, and monasteries, many of which are still revered by pilgrims today. As the spiritual nucleus of ancient Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura is home to the Atamasthana — the eight sacred places of worship.
This travel guide will take you through:
- The sacred Atamasthana (8 holy sites)
- Other iconic attractions in Anuradhapura
- Travel tips, dress code, and visitor etiquette
- Answers to frequently asked questions about the city
The Atamasthana – The Eight Sacred Temples
These eight places hold deep religious and historical significance as the core sites Buddha visited or are directly connected to Buddhist lore.
1. Sri Maha Bodhi Tree
The sacred Bo tree, brought from India by Sanghamitta Thera, is said to be a sapling of the original Bodhi tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. It is one of the oldest trees in the world with a recorded history.
2. Ruwanwelisaya
Constructed by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BCE, Ruwanwelisaya is one of the most sacred and venerated stupas in Sri Lanka. The colossal white dome symbolizes purity and enshrines sacred relics of the Buddha. Daily offerings and rituals take place here, especially during full moon (Poya) days.
3. Thuparamaya
Considered the first stupa built in Sri Lanka following the arrival of Buddhism, Thuparamaya enshrines the right collarbone relic of the Buddha. It showcases early architectural styles and is surrounded by rows of stone pillars that once supported a circular shrine.
4. Lovamahapaya (Brazen Palace)
Once a grand nine-story building with a bronze-tiled roof, Lovamahapaya served as the residential quarters for monks. Built by King Dutugemunu, it housed up to 1,000 monks. Today, 1,600 granite pillars are all that remain, giving a glimpse of its immense scale and grandeur.
5. Abhayagiriya
Abhayagiriya is not just a stupa but an extensive monastic complex that once rivaled Nalanda in India. At its peak, it housed over 5,000 monks and was a center of learning and innovation. Its massive stupa is admired for its scale and the unique blend of Theravāda and Mahāyāna Buddhist influences.
6. Jetavanaramaya
Built by King Mahasen in the 3rd century CE, Jetavanaramaya was once the tallest stupa in the world and the third tallest structure of the ancient world. Composed of over 90 million bricks, it rises to a height of about 122 meters and remains a marvel of ancient Sri Lankan engineering.
7. Mirisawetiya Dagoba
This dagoba predates Ruwanwelisaya and was also constructed by King Dutugemunu. Legend states that the king’s sacred relics, left in his spear during a river bath, were miraculously fixed to the ground and could not be moved. In response, he built the stupa to enshrine them.
8. Lankarama Stupa
Built by King Valagamba, Lankarama is a smaller, more secluded stupa surrounded by a circular structure supported by elegant stone columns. The area offers a peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for quiet contemplation and spiritual connection.
Other Must-Visit Sites in Anuradhapura
Isurumuniya Vihara
Famous for its rock carvings — particularly the "Isurumuniya Lovers" — this temple blends natural stone and artistry with calm surroundings.
Samadhi Buddha Statue
This meditative statue of the Buddha in Dhyana Mudra is admired for its serene expression and perfect proportions, symbolizing enlightenment.
Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)
Ingenious examples of ancient Sinhalese hydrological engineering. These ponds served as bathing areas for monks.
Planning Your Visit
- 📍 Distance: ~200 km from Colombo
- 🚆 Transport: Train, bus, or private vehicle
- 🏨 Accommodation: From budget guesthouses to boutique hotels
- 🕓 Best Time to Visit: December–April (dry season)
- ⚠️ Etiquette: Remove shoes before entering temples, don’t turn your back to Buddha statues
Final Thoughts
Anuradhapura isn't just ruins — it’s a living museum of faith, architecture, and heritage. Whether you're a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or a curious traveler, this sacred city offers one of the richest cultural experiences in South Asia.
“You don’t just visit Anuradhapura — you feel it.”
Frequently Asked Questions