Anuradhapura Things to Do Tips by jennifermueller Top 5 Page for this destination

Isurumuniya Vihara

This rock temple dates from the 3rd century BC.

Isurumuniya's "The Lovers" is one of the few non-religious sculptures from the period and one of my husband's favorite things in Sri Lanka.

Entry is not included in the Cultural Triangle ticket and costs Rs. 100.

Address: at the end of Hospital Road by Tissa Wewa tank

Directions: The sign for Hospital Road is in Sinhala.

Mahathupa - Runwanweli Dagaba, Anuradhapura

The elephant wall surrounding this dagaba is one of the most commonly photographed sites in the cultural triangle.

The great thupa was built by King Duthagamani beginning in 144 B.C. At 55 meters high, the restored dagaba is smaller than it once was, but impressive not the less. There is a model dagobat on site that dates from the 7th century illustrating the thupa's original shape.

As with most of Sri Lanka's cultural historic sites: no shoes, hats, shorts or uncovered shoulders.

Address: n. of Sri Maha Bodhi, w. of Basawakkulama tank

Directions: There is a footpath from Sri Maha Bodhi past Brazen place to Ruwanweli Dagaba.

Sri Maha Bodhi

The sacred Bodhi tree was planted at Mahameghavana Park in Anuradhapura in 249 BC by King Devanampiyatissa. The Sri Maha Bodhi was a cutting from the tree under which Buddha achieved enlightenment.

This is the most sacred site to Sri Lankan buddhists, be respectful. No shoes, hats, shorts or uncovered sholders.

Address: the end of Sri Maha Bodhi Mawatha