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Offered languages
- English
Unlike standard sightseeing tours, not just the ruins— you will bring the ancient kingdom of Anuradhapura to life. Led by a passionate local expert, this tour goes beyond dates and facts, diving deep into captivating myths, royal intrigues, and the profound Buddhist philosophy behind the Atamasthana (Eight Sacred Places). Ensure a personalized, unhurried pace so you can truly absorb the spiritual energy of Sri Lanka’s first capital.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
For hotel pickups: The driver will be waiting for you in the hotel lobby at the agreed pickup time.
For meeting points on the main road: You can easily identify our Tuk Tuk, as it clearly displays our company name and logo on the vehicle.
Itinerary
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1Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
Visit one of the most sacred places in Sri Lanka and stand beneath the Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree with a history stretching back more than 2,000 years. I’ll share the fascinating story of how a branch of the original Bodhi tree from India came to Anuradhapura and why this tree is still deeply respected by Buddhists today.
25 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Ruwanwelisaya
Walk around the magnificent Ruwanwelisaya, one of Anuradhapura’s most important stupas. Here you can experience the peaceful atmosphere, see pilgrims making offerings, and hear the story behind King Dutugemunu and the building of this great monument.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3Dagoba of Thuparama
Discover Thuparamaya, traditionally regarded as the first stupa built in Sri Lanka after Buddhism was introduced to the island. I’ll explain its connection with the Buddha’s teachings and show you some of the beautiful ancient stonework surrounding it.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4Jetavanaramaya
Come close to the enormous Jetavanaramaya and imagine what this place must have looked like when Anuradhapura was one of the great cities of the ancient world. We’ll talk about its construction, the incredible amount of bricks used, and the monks and people who lived around this huge monastery.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5Jethawanaramaya Museum
Take a short visit to the Jetavana Museum and see archaeological discoveries from the ancient city. It’s a great way to understand how people lived, worshipped, built, and created everyday objects more than a thousand years ago.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6Twin Baths (Kuttam Pokuna)
See the beautiful Twin Ponds, once used by monks of the Abhayagiri monastery. Beyond their beauty, these ponds show the remarkable knowledge ancient Sri Lankans had about water management, cleanliness, and stone construction.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
7Samadhi Statue
Spend a quiet moment with the famous Samadhi Buddha Statue. I’ll explain the meaning of the Buddha’s meditation posture and the story behind this beautiful ancient sculpture. It is also a wonderful place to slow down and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
8Abayagiriya Stupa
Explore the impressive Abhayagiri Stupa and learn about the huge monastery complex that once surrounded it. This was much more than a religious site—it was a busy centre of learning where monks from different parts of the ancient Buddhist world came to study and live.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
9Main Refectory Of Abayagiri Monastery
Step into the remains of the ancient monastery’s refectory and imagine hundreds of monks gathering here for their daily meals. I’ll show you the large stone structures and explain how this huge monastery community was organised.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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