Map of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

🏞️ What to do in Anuradhapura 🚲

Immerse yourself in the rich history and natural beauty of Anuradhapura with these must-try activities that offer a glimpse into the city's cultural heritage and serene landscapes.

• Best Budget Activity in Anuradhapura:

  Explore Ruins of Anuradhapura: Wander through the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura, including iconic sites like Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba and Jetavanaramaya, for a glimpse into the city's fascinating past.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Anuradhapura:

  Bicycle Tour of Anuradhapura: Hop on a bicycle and explore the city's landmarks at your own pace, cycling past historical sites such as Abhayagiriya and Isurumuniya Temple for an active and educational experience.

• Best Luxury Activity in Anuradhapura:

  Helicopter Tour of Anuradhapura: Soar above Anuradhapura's ancient monuments and lush scenery on a mesmerizing helicopter tour, offering a bird's eye view of the city's architectural wonders and natural landscapes.

🍽️ Where to eat in Anuradhapura 🍴

Indulge in the diverse culinary delights of Anuradhapura, where you can savor traditional Sri Lankan dishes like kottu roti, hoppers, and delicious curries. Here are some dining recommendations to enhance your gastronomic journey:

• Best Budget Restaurant in Anuradhapura:

  Mango Tree•$ - $$:

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Anuradhapura:

  The Heritage Restaurant•$$ - $$$:

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Anuradhapura:

  The Royal Palms•$$$ - $$$$:

• Best Budget Bar in Anuradhapura:

  Little Pub•$:

  Lion Lager beer

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Anuradhapura:

  Fortaleza Bar & Restaurant•$$ - $$$:

  Arrack cocktail

• Best Luxury Bar in Anuradhapura:

  The Sovereign•$$$ - $$$$:

  Premium wine selection

🏰 What to see in Anuradhapura 🕌

Discover the ancient wonders and sacred sites of Anuradhapura, a city steeped in history and spirituality. From magnificent stupas to serene monasteries, here are the top landmarks that you must visit during your stay:

• Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba:

  Marvel at the grandeur of Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba, one of the tallest stupas in Sri Lanka, known for its striking white dome and intricate carvings that exemplify ancient craftsmanship.

• Jetavanaramaya:

  Explore the impressive Jetavanaramaya stupa, a significant Buddhist monument that stands as a testament to the city's architectural prowess and religious devotion.

• Abhayagiriya:

  Visit the ruins of Abhayagiriya, an ancient monastic complex that once housed thousands of monks, offering insights into the religious practices and daily life of the city's inhabitants.

• Isurumuniya Temple:

  Admire the rock carvings and serene surroundings of Isurumuniya Temple, a tranquil sanctuary that features captivating sculptures and a picturesque pond.

• Mihintale:

  Climb the sacred Mihintale Mountain to explore ancient monasteries, stupas, and breathtaking vistas, while learning about the historic significance of this revered pilgrimage site.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Anuradhapura 🛒

Explore the vibrant shopping scene of Anuradhapura, offering a mix of traditional markets and modern boutiques where you can find unique souvenirs, handicrafts, and local specialties.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Anuradhapura:

  Mihintale Market: Browse through Mihintale Market's stalls filled with colorful fabrics, handmade trinkets, and fresh produce, offering a glimpse into the local culture and artisanal craftsmanship at affordable prices.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Anuradhapura:

  Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Market: Explore Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Market, a bustling marketplace near the sacred Bodhi tree, where you can shop for traditional clothing, jewelry, and spices amidst a lively atmosphere.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Anuradhapura:

  Heritage Arts & Crafts Gallery: Step into Heritage Arts & Crafts Gallery to discover exquisite handcrafted souvenirs, pottery, and artworks that showcase the region's artistic heritage and craftsmanship, ideal for premium-quality mementos.

🚌 Getting Around Anuradhapura

• Public Transport

  In Anuradhapura, buses are the primary mode of public transportation. They are affordable and widely available, connecting different parts of the city. Bus fares are low, typically ranging from 20-50 LKR depending on the distance. The bus schedule varies, but they usually run frequently throughout the day. Train services are also available in Anuradhapura, connecting it to other major cities in Sri Lanka. The train schedule and fares can be checked online or at the train station.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  Anuradhapura Railway Station is the main train hub in the city, providing connections to Colombo and other parts of the country. The Anuradhapura Central Bus Stand is the primary bus terminal, where you can find buses to various destinations within the city and beyond. The nearest airport is Sigiriya Airport, located around 50 kilometers away from Anuradhapura, offering domestic flights to Colombo and other cities.

• Rental Services

  🚗 Car Rentals: Several car rental companies operate in Anuradhapura, offering a range of vehicles from budget to luxury options. Some popular providers include Casons Rent-A-Car and Malkey Rent-A-Car. Prices typically start from 3000 LKR per day. 🚲 Bicycle Rentals: For a more eco-friendly way to explore the city, bicycle rentals are a popular option. You can rent bicycles from shops in Anuradhapura town for around 300-500 LKR per day, allowing you to navigate the city at your own pace.