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Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Sri Lanka’s most significant historical and cultural destinations. As the first capital of ancient Sri Lanka, this sacred city dates back to the 4th century BCE and was the center of Sinhalese civilization for over a millennium. Today, it remains a major pilgrimage site and a treasure trove of archaeological wonders.
The city is home to some of the island’s most revered Buddhist sites, including the Sri Maha Bodhi, the world’s oldest recorded tree, grown from a sapling of the Bodhi tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. Visitors can also explore the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, an iconic white dagoba, and the Jetavanaramaya, one of the tallest brick-built structures in the ancient world.
Beyond its spiritual significance, Anuradhapura boasts intricate monasteries, reservoirs, and stone carvings that highlight the advanced engineering and artistic skills of ancient Sri Lankans. The city's vast network of reservoirs, such as the Tissa Wewa, showcases its sophisticated irrigation system, which continues to benefit the region today.
A visit to Anuradhapura offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s glorious past, with its grand stupas, sacred relics, and serene landscapes. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or an explorer, this ancient city promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Sri Lanka’s heritage.
THE 10 BEST Things to Do in
Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura is a city in Sri Lanka that is known for its rich cultural and historical heritage. Here are the top 10 things to do and see in Anuradhapura:
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Sri Maha Bodhiya: The Sri Maha Bodhiya is a sacred fig tree that is said to have grown from a cutting of the original Bodhi tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. It is a must-visit site for Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike.
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Ruwanwelisaya: This is a stupa built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BC, and is considered one of the most important architectural marvels of Anuradhapura.
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Abhayagiri Vihara: This was one of the largest monasteries in the ancient world, and is still an impressive site to visit today.
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Jetavanaramaya: This stupa is the tallest brick building in the world and was built by King Mahasena in the 3rd century AD.
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Kuttam Pokuna: These twin ponds were used for bathing by monks and are an impressive feat of ancient engineering.
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Isurumuniya: This is a rock temple that features a beautiful carving of a couple, known as the 'Isurumuniya Lovers'.
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Thuparamaya: This is the oldest stupa in Sri Lanka, dating back to the 3rd century BC.
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Samadhi Buddha: This statue of the Buddha in meditation is a beautiful and peaceful site to visit.
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Mirisaveti Stupa: This stupa was built by King Dutugemunu and is said to contain a relic of the Buddha.
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Lankarama: This stupa was built by King Valagamba in the 1st century BC and is one of the most well-preserved stupas in Anuradhapura.
