How many days do you need in Anuradhapura?

Two days is ideal to explore the main Atamasthana and additional sites without rushing.

Foreign travelers are charged around $25 USD for entry into the sacred zone. Sri Lankan nationals may enter for free or a reduced price.

What to Wear in Anuradhapura?

This is a sacred city — modest dress is required. Cover shoulders and knees. White clothing is often worn by pilgrims. Avoid sleeveless tops or short skirts/shorts.

Why is Anuradhapura so famous?

It was Sri Lanka's first capital for over 1,300 years and is a centerpiece of Theravāda Buddhism, home to sacred relics, and advanced irrigation systems.

Is Anuradhapura still there in Sri Lanka?

Yes! The ancient ruins remain remarkably intact and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting pilgrims and travelers worldwide.

What are the 8 sacred places (Atamasthana) in Anuradhapura?

Sri Maha Bodhi, Ruwanweli maha saya, Thuparamaya saya, Lovamahapaya, Abhayagiriya saya, Jetavanaramaya saya, Mirisawetiya, Lankarama

What is the religion of Anuradhapura district?

Predominantly Theravāda Buddhism

How old is Anuradhapura Ancient City?

Founded in the 4th century BCE, it's over 2,300 years old.

What is the old name of Anuradhapura?

It was always referred to as Anuradhapura, named after Prince Anuradha, a follower of Prince Vijaya.

What was the downfall of the Anuradhapura Kingdom?

Repeated invasions, especially from the Cholas, and internal decline led to the shift of the capital to Polonnaruwa.

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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.

Pilgrims worshipping under the Bodhi Tree at twilight.

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.

The grand white stupa of Ruwanwelisaya illuminated at dusk, a revered symbol of Sri Lankan Buddhism.

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.

Ancient stupa of Thuparamaya surrounded by stone columns, believed to enshrine the Buddha’s collarbone relic.

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.

Rows of granite pillars at Lovamahapaya, remnants of a 9-story monastery with a bronze-tiled roof

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.

Massive Abhayagiriya Stupa with surrounding ruins, once a global center of Buddhist learning and meditation.

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.

The towering Jetavanaramaya Stupa built with over 90 million bricks, reflecting the engineering prowess of ancient Sri Lanka.

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.

The historic Mirisawetiya Dagoba built by King Dutugemunu, marking a miracle involving sacred relics.

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.

Peaceful surroundings of Lankarama Stupa with elegant stone pillars encircling the stupa structure.

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.