Anuradhapura — the sacred city★★★
Anuradhapura was the capital of Sri Lanka for over 1,300 years (from the 4th century BC to the 11th century) and is today the oldest of the three royal cities — a UNESCO World Heritage Site of immense scale. The city spans almost 40 square kilometers and remains an active pilgrimage site for Buddhists from around the world.
The Highlights
- Sri Maha Bodhi: The sacred Bodhi tree, grown from a cutting of the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. Planted in 288 BC — thus the oldest historically documented tree in the world. For Buddhists, one of the holiest places ever.
- Ruwanwelisaya: A monumental white dagoba (stupa) 103 meters high, built in the 2nd century BC. Surrounded by a frieze of hundreds of elephant statues.
- Jetavanaramaya: At 122 meters, this dagoba was once the third tallest structure in the ancient world — after the Pyramids of Giza. Over 90 million bricks were used.
- Abhayagiri Vihara: Once a huge monastery with 5,000 monks and an international reputation — Chinese, Greek, and Persian scholars studied here.
- Isurumuniya: Small rock temple with the famous "Lovers of Isurumuniya" — a delicate stone relief depiction of a couple, considered one of Sri Lanka's finest artworks.
- Samadhi Buddha: A seated Buddha statue from the 4th century, famous for its serene expression. Jawaharlal Nehru is said to have meditated while looking at it during his imprisonment.
💡 Tipp
Anuradhapura is huge — impossible to cover in half a day. Rent a bicycle or take a tuk-tuk for the whole day. White clothing is respectful, as many areas are active pilgrimage sites. At Sri Maha Bodhi: Remove shoes and behave quietly — active prayers are held here.
Achtung
Anuradhapura is a living pilgrimage site, not a museum. Behave respectfully: No selfies with Buddha statues in your arms, do not pose with your back to the Buddha, no short shorts or tank tops. At Sri Maha Bodhi, there is a particularly reverent atmosphere.
