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Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Anuradhapura

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Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura keeps its ancient Buddhist monuments close to everyday life. Pilgrims circle the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, and vast dagobas punctuate the open landscape.

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Theroadislife

Recommendations

Culture4.9/5

Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi

Anuradhapura's sacred Bodhi tree is the oldest human-planted tree with a recorded planting date, 288 BC. Pilgrims offer flowers and chant beside its gold railings, while the tree's leaves stir overhead.

Culture4.9/5

Ruwanweli Maha Seya

Anuradhapura’s great white stupa rises above the sacred grounds, framed by rows of ancient stone pillars. Devotees offer flowers and chant nearby.

Culture4.7/5

Isurumuniya Temple

Anuradhapura's rock-cut temple rises from a rocky outcrop above a pond. Climb the shrine rock for a view over Tissa Wewa, then see the famous Isurumuniya Lovers carved in stone.

Culture4.8/5

Abhayagiriya

This Buddhist monastery complex centers on a massive brick stupa in Anuradhapura. Stone pillars and foundations spread around it, marking the scale of a community that once housed thousands of monks.

Cafe$$$4.7/5

The Coffee Shop

Lake-view cafe with coffee, fresh juices, sandwiches and breakfast, plus interesting items on display and for sale. Tables outside look over the lake.

Eat$$$4.1/5

Golden Mango

Family restaurant and bakery in Anuradhapura, with pastries, fresh juices, rice and kottu.

Eat$$$4.5/5

Kafe

Cafe4.1/5

Green Chillies

Eat$$$4.6/5

Table 9 restaurant

Eat$$$4.3/5

Barna's cafe and restaurant

Eat$$$4.8/5

Mr. Karapincha (Mr.කරපිංචා )

Cafe$$4.6/5

Banana Cafe, Coffee shop

Stays

Stay$$4.6/5

Lake House Homestay

Located 5.3 km from Kumbichchan Kulama Tank and 6 km from Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in the centre of Anuradhapura, Lake House Homestay provides accommodation with free WiFi and free private parking. Housed in a building dating from 2001, this homestay is 6.9 km from Kada Panaha Tank and 7.1 km from Kuttam Pokuna, Twin Ponds. The accommodation features airport transfers, while a bicycle rental service is also available. Units are complete with a private bathroom equipped with a shower, while certain units at the homestay also offer a seating area. If you would like to discover the area, cycling is possible in the surroundings and the homestay can arrange a car rental service. Nature Park Anuradhapura is 7.5 km from Lake House Homestay, while Anuradhapura Railway Station is 7.5 km away. Sigiriya Airport is 74 km from the property.

Stay4.8/5

Uga Ulagalla

Uga Ulagalla in Thirippane, Sri Lanka is a hidden gem for adventurous travelers seeking a unique experience. Located amidst lush greenery, this boutique hotel is the perfect blend of luxury and nature. With its charming Ulagalla Walawwa, guests can immerse themselves in Sri Lankan culture while enjoying modern amenities. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the historic attractions nearby while staying in this tranquil haven.

Stay4.3/5

Heritage Hotel Anuradhapura

Poolside dining gives this Anuradhapura hotel its clearest distinction. Spacious rooms and a swimming pool round out the stay.

Stay3.8/5

National Holiday Resort - Anuradhapura by SLTDA (Tourist Board Rest House)

Nestled in Anuradhapura, National Holiday Resort offers a tranquil escape with lush gardens and modern amenities, making it the perfect base for exploring the rich heritage of Sri Lanka's ancient capital.

Stay3.7/5

Royal White Tourist Rest

Hotel with air-conditioned rooms, fans and Dialog TV.

Things To Do
Provided byViator

5/5

Private City Day Tour in Anuradhapura

Navin Lanka Tours: Your Gateway to Unforgettable Sri Lankan Adventures! Embark on a modern and professional journey with our Anuradhapura day tour package, meticulously curated to include every tourist attraction in the ancient city. Anytime, anywhere, we're here to make your holiday unforgettable. Book now and elevate your Sri Lankan experience with Navin Lanka Tours!

$24.00
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4.8/5

Private Jeep Safari at Minneriya National Park to Visit Elephants

Depending on weather conditions and wildlife movements, we help guests choose the most suitable safari experience at Minneriya, Kaudulla, or Hurulu Eco Park for the best possible wildlife viewing opportunities. Each booking includes a safari at one national park only, with a choice of morning or afternoon departure. Please mention your preferred park when booking. Your 4x4 jeep safari begins at the park's main entrance. Complimentary hotel pickup is available within 10 km of the entrance in Habarana or Minneriya. Morning safaris begin at 5:30 AM, while afternoon safaris start at 1:00 PM. Explore Sri Lanka's beautiful wilderness and enjoy the chance to see wild elephants, crocodiles, colorful birds, and other fascinating wildlife in their natural habitat. Wildlife sightings vary by season and conditions.

$33.50
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4.9/5
4 h

Sigiriya & Habarana: Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride Experience

From the moment you book, we take care of everything—no stress, just adventure! Our air-conditioned vehicles will pick you up for a smooth ride to the launch site, where a light breakfast awaits. As the sun rises, lift off for a 360° view of lush green fields, Kandalama Lake, ancient temples, and villages. Wave to locals, spot fishermen in small boats, and if you’re lucky, see parrots, peacocks, monkeys, or even an elephant! Love photos? Our pilots will guide you to the best shots. Check our Instagram & Viator for inspiration! After landing, celebrate with locals before a relaxing ride back. Book now for an unforgettable journey!

$275.00
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5/5
2 h 30 mins

Hands-On Cooking Class in Anuradhapura-Cook Like a Local

Step into a peaceful village home and learn how to cook like the locals of ancient Rajarata. This hands-on experience is more than just a cooking class – it’s a journey into Sri Lankan culture, tradition, and village life. Pick Your Own Coconut – Straight from the Tree! Have fun in the garden as you pluck a fresh coconut and see how it’s used in cooking – from tree to table! ️Grind Spices on a Miris Gala (Stone Grinder) Smell the amazing aroma as you grind your own spices using a traditional stone grinder. It’s the old way – and it’s the best way! Scrape Coconut with a Hiramanaya Try a fun kitchen skill that every Sri Lankan home cook knows! It’s easy to learn and very satisfying. Cook on a Wood-Fired Stove Make your meal over a firewood stove, just like our grandmothers did. The smoky flavor makes it extra tasty! A Taste of Ancient Traditions Use clay pots, coconut-shell firewood, and fresh ingredients picked from our garden. ❤️ More Than a Meal – A Cultural Journey

$45.00
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5/5
11 h

Sigiriya Rock and Wild Elephant Safari from Dambulla

This private day trip will visit three famous destinations in Sri Lanka, one is historical, another cultural, and the final destination a place where man meets nature. The historical destination is the rock fortress, Sigiriya; the cultural destination is the beautiful rural village, and the final nature destination is the Minneriya National Park.

$59.94
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5/5
4 h

Sigiriya Village Tour from Habarana

This private village tour gives you a chance to experience traditional Sri Lanka with all its authenticity. Spend time with the villagers and engage in many village activities that form everyday life; such as an oxen cart ride, a catamaran ride, and a walk through the fields. Learn to cook traditional Sri Lankan food. You will finish off with an exceptionally delicious buffet lunch, served in classic Sri Lankan style. This is your truly Sri Lankan holiday experience.

$26.00
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4.7/5

One Day Tour - Sacred city of Anuradhapura & Sacred city of Mihintale. (Sunset)

This tour will be the best tour for known to history in sri lanka. And this tour will be supportiv to you to know about culture in sri lanka. I promise to do my best to make your day unforgettable. After the tour you will get the real idea about buddhism.

$50.00
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5/5

Mountain Bicycle Group Tour Anuradhapura & History with Buddhism

This is a relax tour. Specially i designed this tour to tourists who want know more and good historical imformation about heritage site in Anuradhapura , Buddhism , Buddhist culture , spiritual experience , and good bicycle riding . I added special some village roads to this tour to see around with nature , plants, some birds , animals . Tour time is changing according to group members . Sometimes it will go more hours with discussing history and Buddhism .You have to ride about 11 km in this tour. I will give you some spiritual experiences with Buddhism . Because of lot of people like to discuss Buddhism and take some Buddhist practicing .If you want to do a private tour ,please letting me know about that before by a message .my whatsapp number is +94719253542.. Please don't book my tour only for riding and visiting .

$23.00
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3.6/5
3 h

Wilpattu National Park Private Safari

This tour gives you a chance to tour one of the most famous national parks in Sri Lanka. Get a chance to see the stalking Sri Lankan Leopard. Watch a Sri Lankan Sloth Bear lumber past. Put on your binoculars for a fantastically colorful birdwatching experience. Do some serious butterfly watching with the aid of your guide. Learn more about the geology of the area and the ecosystems of the park. Lots of adventures and wild sights await!

$12.00
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4.6/5
10 h

Sigiriya Day Tour with Dambulla and Pidurangala Rock

Pidurangala is a massive rock formation located a few kilometers north of Sigiriya in Sri Lanka. It has an interesting history closely related to that of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Climbing to the top of Pidurangala Rock is more strenuous than climbing Sigiriya. If you are fit and adventurous it is a climb worth making. It will take you about two hours. There is far less to see on this site than Sigiriya

$45.00
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4.6/5

All Inclusive Private Safari in Minneriya National Park

Discover the moments of giants of the earth and study the way they eat, drink, play and behave. These cutest animals are moving within three national parks usually to find their foods and water so we will bring you to the best suited national park (Minneriya,Kaudulla or Hurulu Eco) on the day of your Safari according to the data that we gathered during the previous days. If you are traveling during the gathering season which is from July to September we can surely show you more than 100 elephants during this experience. Sometimes you might lucky enough to spot around 400 elephants. This experience will also give you the chances to spot some other animal species as well. We will offer you bottled water and a small snack along with a drink during the Safari.

$96.50
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5/5
3 h

Kaudulla National Park Safari | Jeep with Tickets

Kaudulla National Park is one of best national parks to spot Elephants in Sri Lanka. It is home to 200+ elephants, monkeys, crocodiles and even a handful of leopards. The park has opened in 2002, is surrounded by grasslands and can be visited year-round to see elephants and other great wildlife. See why this is the best national park in Sri Lanka.

$79.00
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5/5

Anuradhapura: Tuk Tuk Tour at Ancient City with Audio Guide

Explore Anuradhapura Ancient City like never before with an Audio Guide App in your personal tuk-tuk. Say goodbye to passive sightseeing and embrace the thrill of navigating historic streets and iconic landmarks at your pace. Picture cruising past towering monuments from the comfort of your tuk-tuk, with the freedom to choose your picked-up time and point of meet. Forget the inconvenience of searching for taxis or negotiating with street tuk-tuks – we prioritise your convenience and safety. Our reliable tuk-tuk service strictly adheres to Covid-19 guidelines, ensuring a worry-free tour. Experience Anuradhapura's charm through audio-guided tuk-tuk tour that blend history with modern comfort. Join our satisfied clientele who keep returning for more. Book your unforgettable tuk-tuk adventure today!

$20.00
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4.6/5

Wilpattu Half Day Safari From Anuradhapura

Join us for an exhilarating safari in Wilpattu National Park, starting at 5:00 AM, where you have a prime opportunity to see Sri Lanka's elusive leopards in their natural habitat. Wilpattu is renowned for its healthy population of these magnificent big cats, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Tour Highlights: Leopard Spotting: With its unique mix of open plains and dense scrub, Wilpattu provides the perfect environment for spotting leopards, especially during the early morning when they are most active. Expert Guidance: Our knowledgeable safari guides are experienced in tracking leopards and will share their insights on the behavior and habitat of these majestic animals. Rich Biodiversity: In addition to leopards, you’ll have the chance to see elephants, deer, and a variety of bird species, all set against the backdrop of the park’s stunning landscapes. Embark on an extraordinary journey to witness the beauty of wildlife.

$80.00
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Wilpattu Jeep Safari and Anuradhapura Day Tour From Sigiriya

Discover the wonders of Sri Lanka with our Wilpattu Jeep Safari and Anuradhapura Day Tour from Sigiriya. This tour combines the thrill of wildlife exploration in Wilpattu National Park, known for its leopards and diverse ecosystems and Historical and UNESCO site of Anuradhapura. Starting from the scenic city of Sigiriya, this tour promises an enriching experience that showcases the best of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty. We offer pick-up for all travelers from various locations around Sigiriya. Your journey begins right at your doorstep, where you’ll be greeted by our friendly driver. After a day of adventure, lasting approximately 8-11 hours, our driver will ensure you are comfortably returned to your original pick-up location. Join us for an unforgettable day of adventure where every detail is taken care of for your convenience and enjoyment. Book your spot today and immerse yourself in the heart of Sri Lanka’s natural.

$190.00
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5/5
2 h

Hot Air Ballooning from Habarana

Get this amazing opportunity to go on a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Sri Lanka. Sail in the tranquil skies and enjoy the beautiful views of Kandalama and Dambulla. The tour is dependent on weather conditions. If you are staying at a hotel in a nearby city (Habarana, Kandalama, Sigiriya or Dambulla) you also receive a complimentary pickup from your hotel to the starting point.

$410.00
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4.6/5
3 h

Wilpattu National Park 4-Hours Safari | with Naturalist

The park is 1,317 square kilometers (131, 693 hectares) and ranges from 0 to 152 meters above sea level. Nearly one hundred and six lakes (Willu) and tanks are found spread throughout Wilpattu. Wilpattu is the largest and one of the oldest National Parks in Sri Lanka. Wilpattu is among the top national parks world-renowned for its leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya) population. A remote camera survey was conducted in Wilpattu from July to October 2015 by the Wilderness & Wildlife Conservation Trust. A sample of forty nine individual leopards were photo-captured in the surveyed area and the core area density was between that of Yala National Park's Block I and Horton Plains National Park.

$51.00
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Polonnaruwa Ancient City All Inclusive Day Tour From Sigiriya

Discover the timeless charm of Sri Lanka’s royal past on this Polonnaruwa Ancient City All-Inclusive Day Tour from Sigiriya. Journey to the island’s second ancient capital, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkably preserved ruins, grand palaces, and sacred temples that reflect the glory of Sri Lanka’s medieval kingdom. Explore the Gal Vihara rock temple with its iconic Buddha statues, admire the royal palace complex, and wander through ancient shrines and reservoirs that reveal the island’s sophisticated engineering and artistry. Surrounded by scenic landscapes and steeped in history, this Polonnaruwa day tour from Sigiriya offers a captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, making it the perfect experience for history lovers and curious travelers alike.

$145.00
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4.8/5
4 h

Minneriya National Park Safari Private Jeep with Hotel Pickup

Experience the Minneriya National Park Jeep Safari, renowned for hosting South Asia's largest elephant gathering. Choose between a morning or evening safari and enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off from selected areas.

$35.00
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4.8/5
3 h

Minneriya National Park Private Safari

Large numbers of Sri Lankan elephants are attracted to grass fields on the edges of the reservoir during the dry season. The Minneriya tank contributes to sustain a large herd. Elephants gathered here is numbering around 150-200. Some reports account number of elephants to as high as 700. They migrate here from Wasgamuwa National Park and benefit from food and shelter of the park's forest. Tourists visit Minneriya largely because of elephants, especially in dry season.

$35.00
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