Discover how to visit Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. I’ve created this guide filled with all the information you need to plan your own trip, including things to do, transportation, accommodation, and essential tips for visitors.

If you’re dreaming of a journey that combines timeless history, profound spirituality, and tranquil landscapes, then Anuradhapura is your perfect destination. This ancient city, once the beating heart of Sri Lanka’s first kingdom, is a treasure trove of colossal stupas rising against the sky, timeworn monasteries whispering stories of devotion, and a legendary tree said to be over 2,000 years old, making it one of the oldest recorded trees in the world.

Walking through Anuradhapura feels like stepping into a living, breathing time capsule. Here, the air is heavy with the scent of frangipani flowers, the chants of monks echo softly through sacred spaces, and history seems to emanate from every stone. Beyond the awe-inspiring monuments, there’s an undeniable sense of peace that wraps itself around you, a reminder of the city’s deep spiritual roots.

In this guide, I share everything you need to know to plan your visit to Anuradhapura—from navigating its sprawling ruins and choosing the best time to explore, to finding the perfect place to stay and uncovering the must-see highlights that make this sacred city unforgettable. If you’re into history, temples, or just slowing down and taking in a place with deep roots, it’s worth adding to your Sri Lanka itinerary. Grab your camera, lace up your comfiest shoes, and get ready to be transported through time.

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Why Visit Anuradhapura ↴

Anuradhapura was the heart of the Sinhalese kingdom for over a thousand years. Think centuries-old stonework, royal gardens, and intricate hydraulic systems. You’ll find structures here that rival anything in Egypt or Rome in terms of age and architectural brilliance.

On top of its historical importance, Anuradhapura is spiritually significant. This is one of the most sacred places for Buddhists in Sri Lanka. Pilgrims come from all over to visit the Sri Maha Bodhi tree, believed to be the oldest living tree in documented history, grown from a cutting of the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. You'll see families offering flowers at stupas, saffron-robed monks walking barefoot between temples, and locals explaining stories passed down through generations.

Anuradhapura also offers travelers a break from the usual coastal crowds. Somehow, as if by magic, it has remained less touristy than other historically significant places in Sri Lanka (think Galle or Nuwara Eliya). You can explore at your own pace, with fewer crowds and more moments of stillness.

How to Get to Anuradhapura ↴

Trains

from Colombo Fort run daily and take around 4–6 hours. Grab a first or second-class seat on the Intercity Express if you want AC and fewer people. The views on the way are lush and worth staying awake for.

Bus

You’ll find regular buses from Colombo, Kandy, and Dambulla. They’re cheap but usually crowded and not the most comfortable option. I

hired cars + taxis

If you’re short on time or love the flexibility, hire a private car. It takes about 4 hours from Colombo or 2.5 from Dambulla. Bonus: you can stop at scenic spots or grab snacks along the way. By Domestic Flight Yes, there are domestic flights (Cinnamon Air) that land near Anuradhapura. It’s fast but pricey — great if you’re splurging or short on time.

How to Get Around Anuradhapura ↴

Despite its size, Anuradhapura is well laid out and relatively easy to get around. I explored by rented bike, which felt like an extra adventurous way to discover the landmarks and hidden corners most tourists miss. Be sure to wear a helmet— the roads are fine for cycling along, but you are sharing them with speedy tuk tuks and tour buses at times.

Alternatively, you can hire a tuk tuk to take you around. This is ideal if you’re traveling with young children or would rather abstain from physical activity in the oppressive Sri Lankan heat.

Best Time to Visit Anuradhapura ↴

I’m usually a massive shoulder season traveler— avoiding crowds whenever I can. However, Sri Lanka’s complex weather system makes planning your visit relatively important, especially for a place like Anuradhapura, where you’ll be exploring out in the elements. If you’re keen to experience local culture, plan your trip around Poson Poya in June, a Buddhist festival celebrated with processions and rituals.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect throughout the year:

Dry season (May to September) | Sunny days, low humidity, and barely any rain. Expect highs around 28–34°C (82–93°F). Pack sunscreen and a hat!
Inter-monsoon season (October to November) | Some rain, but it usually doesn’t last long. Temperatures sit around 26–32°C (79–90°F). Not a bad time to visit if you don’t mind a few showers.
Northeast monsoon (December to February) | More rain, especially in short bursts. It’s still warm (25–30°C / 77–86°F) and mornings can be lovely for sightseeing.
Hot season (March to April) | This is the hottest time of the year with temperatures regularly reaching over 35°C (95°F). If you visit during the hot season, be strategic with your days. Start your day early, take long lunch breaks in the shade, and drink plenty of water.

May to September is your best bet. During this time, the weather is dry, warm, and perfect for walking or biking through the ruins. You’ll still want to pack lots of water and take breaks in the shade.

What to See + Do in Anuradhapura ↴

You’ll need to purchase a cultural site pass to see the main ruins and gain access to the archaeological complex. As of September 2024, the pass is USD $25. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its spiritual significance, and the pass cost helps maintain and preserve the ancient city.

Sri Maha Bodhi Tree | This bodhi tree is one of the most sacred in the Anuradhapura “complex”. It’s believed to be a sapling from the original Bodhi Tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. Many Sri Lankans make a pilgrimage to Anuradhapura specifically to see it.
Moonstone | The moonstone at Anuradhapura is the second largest in Sri Lanka and one of the best preserved. It’s not far from Abhayagiri Dagoba towards the north of the archaeological complex.
Abhayagiri Monastery | A huge complex of ruins with a mix of crumbled stone buildings, meditating monks, and lush surroundings.
Ruwanwelisaya Stupa | This massive white stupa is especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset.
Jetavanaramaya | At one time, this was one of the tallest buildings in the ancient world. It's now a quiet spot to marvel at just how advanced things were over 1,700 years ago.
Isurumuniya Temple | This smaller temple is famous for the “Isurumuniya Lovers” stone carving. It’s sweet, detailed, and a bit different from the massive stupas.
Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds) | These ancient bathing pools are surprisingly elegant and show off just how advanced water management was back then.

Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Anuradhapura ↴

Dress appropriately

Temples and ancient sites in Anuradhapura are sacred, so visitors must cover their shoulders, knees, and cleavage. Don’t forget to also remove your shoes (yes, even though the stone foundations are piping hot) and hats.

Get a guide

I love DIY-ing my travels. In fact, I prefer it. There’s something very special about meticulously crafting your own itinerary, on your own time. However, you’ll appreciate the history of Anuradhapura much more if you have an expert, certified guide explaining the sites. This is a great way to support grassroots tourism! By paying a local guide, you’re helping the economy at a foundational level, which is what responsible tourism is all about.

Start early

Tour groups tend to all have the same start times, and while Anuradhapura’s popularity as a tourist site is still growing, trust me when I say the experience is better without hordes of people to contend with. Aside from the crowds, starting your explorations earlier means beating the Sri Lankan heat!

Where to Stay in Anuradhapura ↴

There are a number of hotels and guesthouses in and around Anuradhapura for visitors. As Sri Lanka’s tourism booms, there are excellent options for every traveler’s budget, displaying the country’s world-class hospitality. However, keep in mind that some hotels in lesser-visited parts of the country are still catching up to the blossoming demand, meaning some hotels are clean but relatively basic and a bit outdated.

Budget

Little Paradise Guest House, Heaven Upon Rice Fields | Little Paradise is basic but super cozy, with an authentic homestay feel.

mid-range

Rajarata Hotel, The Lakeside Hotel | The Lakeside Hotel (Rajarata Hotel) is another choice for travelers who wish to be close to the main ruins. The rooms are large and comfortable.
Heritage Hotel | We stayed at the Heritage Hotel in Anuradhapura, and it was really lovely. The location was good, as was the dinner buffet. The rooms were huge, although relatively basic.

luxury

Uga Ulagalla | Uga Ulagalla is technically outside the city, but it’s worth being a bit further removed from the ruins for the gorgeous setting and luxury amenities. It’s part of the Uga Escapes collective, so you’ll pay quite a lot for the hospitality comparatively.
The Lake Forest Hotel | If you’re in the market for an infinity pool with lakeside views, The Lake Forest Hotel is the stay for you.
Arachchi Heritage | Airy, bright, and enveloped by Anuradhapura’s stunning scenery— the Arachchi Heritage hotel stands out. Not only does the hotel blend Sri Lankan heritage handicrafts into its design, but it somehow seamlessly incorporates a sense of modernity into its identity.

What to Eat in Anuradhapura ↴

Indulge in local delicacies like milk rice (kiribath), pol sambol (coconut relish), and curry spreads featuring lentils, jackfruit, and eggplant. For a sit-down meal, visit Casserole Restaurant for authentic Sri Lankan flavors or Little Paradise for vegetarian options.