Anuradhapura Day Tour From Sigiriya
Duration
12 Hours
Confirmation by email
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Overview
Step back in time on a private day tour to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka's ancient first capital, where colossal dagobas, sacred temples, and the world's oldest planted tree await you just a short drive from Sigiriya.
Uncover the extraordinary ancient city of Anuradhapura — the first kingdom of Sri Lanka — nestled close to Sigiriya and brimming with South Asia's most captivating historical landmarks.
This private excursion invites you to wander through the vast ruins of Anuradhapura, where centuries of archaeological and architectural mastery have left their mark. Setting off at around 6:00 am from Sigiriya, you'll have the opportunity to explore a wide stretch of this UNESCO World Heritage site — from age-old reservoirs and crumbling temples to the imposing dagobas (brick stupas) that define the skyline.
After a refreshing lunch break mid-tour, the journey continues to Mihintale, one of Sri Lanka's most revered Buddhist sites, celebrated for its scenic trekking trails and deep cultural significance.
At the end of the day, you'll be transported back to your accommodation in Sigiriya, having experienced one of the island's most profound historical treasures.
Highlights
- Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred Bo tree or Ficus religiosa that is located in
- Ruvanveli seya, the first stupa built in Sri Lanka, is revered with great
- Mirisawetiya Dagoba was said to have been the first dagoba constructed by King
- Thuparama was the first stupa to be built in Nepal after Buddhism's
- Abhayagiri Stupa is the second-largest stupa in Sri Lanka
- King Mahasen's Jetavana Stupa is approximately 400 feet high
What's Included
Itinerary
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi - Sacred Bodhi Tree
- Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi: A sacred Bo tree located in Mahamewna Gardens, Anuradhapura — considered the oldest living tree planted by humans and the closest living connection to Gautama Buddha. The Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment seated beneath a Bodhi tree, making this an object of deep veneration.
Ruvanveli Maha Seya - Ancient Stupa
- Ruvanveli Maha Seya: The first major stupa built in Sri Lanka, revered across the island. Originally laid by King Dutugemunu (161–137 BC), this bubble-shaped structure stands at 350 feet tall with a circumference of 300 feet. Its unique elephant-faced wall and four vahalkadas make it a remarkable piece of ancient architecture. Every July, a special ceremony with one hundred thousand jasmine blooms is held here.
Mirisawetiya Dagoba
- Mirisawetiya Dagoba: Said to be the first dagoba constructed by King Dutugemunu. Legend holds that Gautama Buddha blessed this location himself, and historical accounts note that 190,000 Arahants gathered here to offer and consecrate the structure. Located in the North Central Province, it stands as one of the most historically significant monuments in Anuradhapura.
Thuparama - First Stupa After Buddhism's Arrival
- Thuparama: The first stupa built following the introduction of Buddhism in the 3rd century BC. Constructed by King Devanampiyatissa to enshrine the right collar bone of the Buddha, it now stands at 63 feet with a 59-foot diameter. A notable feature is the vatadage — a round relic chamber added by King Vasabha (65–109 AD). The surrounding complex includes a hospital, image house, and chapter house.
Abhayagiri Stupa - Second Largest in Sri Lanka
- Abhayagiri Stupa: The second-largest stupa in Sri Lanka, built by King Vattagamini (89–77 BC). Covering nearly 200 hectares, this monumental structure was a centre of Mahayana Buddhism and a major educational institution with thousands of resident monks.
Jetavana Stupa - Third Largest Brick Monument in the World
- Jetavana Stupa: Built by King Mahasen, this approximately 400-foot-high stupa is the tallest brick-built structure in the ancient world. Excavations have uncovered nine gold folios containing Mahayana Sutras, ancient coins, and Chinese ceramicware. The entire structure has been restored by the Central Cultural Fund.
Lovamahapaya - The Brazen Palace
- Lovamahapaya (Brazen Palace): An ancient place of worship in Anuradhapura, now marked by hundreds of stone pillars. Originally a magnificent nine-storey monastic complex built by King Dutugemmunu in the 2nd century BC, it once stood between the Ruvanvelisaya stupa and the Great Bodhi Tree.
Lankaramaya Temple
- Lankaramaya: A historically significant temple in Anuradhapura connected to a royal tale of refuge and resilience, bearing witness to the struggles of ancient Sri Lankan kings and their eventual triumph over invaders.
Mihintale - Sacred Buddhist Mountain Site
- Mihintale: One of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka, consisting of four mountains with the tallest reaching approximately 1,000 feet. At the summit sit the Aradhana Gala (Invitation Rock) and the celebrated Mahaseya stupa. The site is renowned for its scenic trekking trails and profound cultural significance.
Location
Frequently Asked Questions
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