Anuradhapura
Mark Twain described Anuradhapura as "a city of ancient wonders." "It is a place where history comes alive, and you can feel the presence of the past."
The most spectacular ruins in Sri Lanka may be seen in Anuradhapura, which was originally the country's capital. The 5th century BC saw the founding of the city, while the 9th century AD saw its apex. Over a million people lived in Anuradhapura at its peak, and it was a significant Buddhist center.
Anuradhapura is one of the most well-liked tourist sites in Sri Lanka today and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors may visit the numerous temples, palaces, and monasteries in the city and discover more about its lengthy history.
For over 1,000 years, from the 5th century BC to the 11th century AD, Anuradhapura served as the nation's capital. It was established by King Pandukabhaya, and it immediately rose to prominence as a significant Buddhist center. Numerous monasteries and temples, notably the Mahabodhi Temple, which is said to have been constructed on the site where the Buddha obtained enlightenment, were located in the city.
The population of Anuradhapura peaked in the 9th century AD when there were more than a million people living there. But in the 10th century AD, the city started to deteriorate as a result of a multitude of events, including invasions from South India and civil warfare. Anuradhapura had been abandoned by the 11th century AD, and Polonnaruwa had become the new capital of government for Sri Lanka.
Anuradhapura's ruins stand as a reminder of its previous splendor. They give a rare chance to learn about the Buddhist civilization that flourished in this area for many years, as well as a window into Sri Lanka's rich past.
Here are some of the most iconic landmarks in Anuradhapura:
- The Mahabodhi Temple: This is the oldest and most sacred Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka. It is said that the Buddha himself visited this spot under a Bodhi tree and that the tree was brought to Sri Lanka from India by the Buddhist missionary Mahinda.
- The Ruwanwelisaya: This is the largest stupa in Anuradhapura, and it is said to contain a relic of the Buddha's tooth. The stupa was built in the 1st century AD, and it is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka.
- The Jetavana Monastery: This was once the largest monastery in the world, and it is said to have housed over 20,000 monks. The monastery was founded in the 3rd century BC, and it was destroyed in the 10th century AD.
- Anuradhapura Museum: This museum houses a collection of artifacts from Anuradhapura, including statues, coins, and jewelry.
- Tissa Wewa: This is an ancient reservoir that was built in the 6th century AD. It is one of the largest reservoirs in Sri Lanka, and it is still used for irrigation today.
- Isurumuniya Vihara: This is a rock temple that was built in the 7th century AD. It is famous for its sculptures, which depict scenes from the life of the Buddha.
- Mirisaweti Stupa: This is a stupa that was built in the 1st century AD. It is one of the oldest stupas in Anuradhapura, and it is said to contain a relic of the Buddha's hair.
- Thuparama Temple: This is the oldest stupa in Anuradhapura, and it is said to contain a relic of the Buddha's hair. The stupa was built in the 3rd century BC, and it is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka.
- Lankarama Temple: This is a temple that was built in the 8th century AD. It is famous for its reclining Buddha statue.
- Vessagiriya: This is a complex of caves that were used by Buddhist monks in the 1st century AD. The caves are decorated with paintings and sculptures, which depict scenes from the life of the Buddha.
- Abhayagiri Monastery: This was once the second-largest monastery in Anuradhapura, and it is said to have housed over 10,000 monks. The monastery was founded in the 3rd century BC, and it was destroyed in the 10th century AD.
- Naga Pokuna: This is a large pond that was built in the 7th century AD. The pond is said to be haunted by a Naga, or serpent, which is why it is called Naga Pokuna, which means "serpent pond" in Sinhala.
- Kuttam Pokuna: This is a smaller pond that was built in the 8th century AD. The pond is said to be a replica of the lotus pond in the Buddha's garden in India.
- Mahakanadarawa Wewa: This is a large reservoir that was built in the 1st century AD. It is said to have been built by King Mahanaga.
- Eth Pokuna: This is a man-made lake that was built in the 7th century AD. It is famous for its lotus flowers.
The landscape of Anuradhapura includes these tanks in a significant way. They offer an essential supply of water for drinking and agriculture. They also aid in preventing erosion and floods.
The tanks of Anuradhapura are a testament to the engineering skills of the ancient Sinhalese people. They are a reminder of the importance of water in Sri Lankan culture, and they are a popular tourist destination.
Here are some tips for planning your trip to Anuradhapura:
- The best time to visit Anuradhapura is during the dry season, which runs from November to April.
- There are many hotels and guesthouses in Anuradhapura to choose from.
- You can get to Anuradhapura by plane, train, or bus.
- There are many tour operators in Anuradhapura that can help you plan your trip.
- Be sure to dress modestly when visiting temples and monasteries.
- Be respectful of the local culture and traditions.
Accommodations:
There are many different types of accommodations available in Anuradhapura, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Here are a few of the most popular options:
- Heritage Hotel Anuradhapura: This 5-star hotel is located in the heart of the city, close to all the major attractions. It features a swimming pool, fitness center, and spa.
- Rajarata Hotel Anuradhapura: This 4-star hotel is also located in the city center, and it has a similar range of amenities to the Heritage Hotel.
- The Lake Forest Hotel: This 3-star hotel is located on the outskirts of the city, and it has a more relaxed atmosphere. It features a swimming pool and a garden.
- Anuradhapura Village Resort: This budget-friendly guesthouse is located in a quiet area of the city. It has a swimming pool and a garden.
- Avasta Resort & Spa: This 5-star hotel is located on the outskirts of the city, surrounded by lush gardens. It features a swimming pool, fitness center, spa, and a restaurant with an outdoor terrace.
- Forest Rock Garden Resort: This 5-star hotel is located in a quiet area of the city, surrounded by forest. It features a swimming pool, fitness center, and spa. The hotel is built on stilts and has a unique design that blends in with the surrounding environment.
- Ulagalla: This 5-star hotel is located in a secluded area of the city, surrounded by paddy fields and orchards. It features 25 villas, all with private plunge pools. The hotel has a relaxed atmosphere and offers a variety of activities, including elephant riding, bird watching, and cycling.
Consider staying in a traditional Sri Lankan hamlet if you're seeking a more distinctive lodging alternative. The villages near Anuradhapura are home to a lot of guesthouses and homestays. This is a fantastic opportunity to experience Sri Lankan culture and discover local customs.
There are many unique accommodation options in Anuradhapura, ranging from traditional Sri Lankan village homes to eco-friendly treehouses.
Here are a few of the most popular options:
- Village Homestay: Staying in a traditional Sri Lankan village home is a great way to experience Sri Lankan culture and learn about the local way of life. Homestays are usually located in rural areas, and they offer a chance to meet local people and learn about their customs.
- Eco-Friendly Treehouse: Staying in an eco-friendly treehouse is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of Anuradhapura. Treehouses are usually located in the forest, and they offer stunning views of the surrounding area.
- Boutique Hotel: If you are looking for a more luxurious stay, you may want to consider staying in a boutique hotel. Boutique hotels are usually located in historical buildings, and they offer a unique and stylish experience.
- Campsite: If you are on a budget, you may want to consider staying at a campsite. Campsites are usually located in the forest, and they offer a chance to experience the outdoors.
- Glamping: Glamping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors without giving up the comforts of home. There are a number of glamping options available in Anuradhapura, including tents, yurts, and cabins.
- Rent a Houseboat: If you are looking for a unique and relaxing experience, you may want to consider renting a houseboat on the Mahaweli River. Houseboats offer a chance to explore the river and see some of the wildlife that lives in the area.
- Stay in a Cave: There are a number of caves in Anuradhapura that have been converted into hotels. Staying in a cave is a great way to experience the history of Anuradhapura and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
- Stay in a Buddhist Monastery: If you are interested in learning more about Buddhism, you may want to consider staying in a Buddhist monastery. Monasteries offer a chance to learn about the Buddhist way of life and to experience the Buddhist culture.
How to Reach Anuradhapura:
There are many ways to reach Anuradhapura. Here are a few options:
- By Plane: There is an airport in Anuradhapura, but it is only served by a few airlines. If you are flying to Anuradhapura, you will likely need to connect through Colombo or another city.
- By Train: There is a train station in Anuradhapura, and trains are a popular way to travel to Anuradhapura from Colombo and other cities in Sri Lanka. Trains are relatively inexpensive, and they offer a scenic view of the countryside.
- By Bus: There are buses that run from Colombo and other cities in Sri Lanka to Anuradhapura. Buses are the most affordable way to travel to Anuradhapura, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable.
- By Taxi or Rented Car: You can also travel to Anuradhapura by taxi or rented car. This is the most expensive option, but it is also the most convenient. Taxis and rented cars can be hired in Colombo and other cities in Sri Lanka.
Once you arrive in Anuradhapura, you can get around by walking, cycling, or taking a tuk-tuk. Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transportation in Anuradhapura, and they are a great way to get around the city and see the sights.
Anuradhapura is a fascinating city with a rich history. It is a place where you can learn about the ancient civilizations of Sri Lanka, and where you can experience the beauty of Buddhist art and architecture.