Anuradhapura Day Tour
Walk through 2,500 years of sacred history at one of Asia's greatest ancient cities
About This Tour
Anuradhapura was one of the ancient world's greatest cities — a sophisticated hydraulic civilisation that flourished for over 1,300 years. Today it remains a living sacred site, where Buddhist pilgrims offer flowers at the world's oldest documented living tree, monks chant at dawn beneath colossal white dagobas, and 5th-century moonstone doorways still gleam in the morning light. This full-day tour covers the key sacred sites with an expert local guide who brings the stones to life.
Tour Highlights
Day Schedule
Hotel Pick-Up
Early departure from Colombo or your hotel to make the most of the cool morning hours.
Sri Maha Bodhi
Visit the sacred Bo tree — a direct cutting of the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment, planted in 288 BC. The oldest documented living tree in the world.
Ruwanwelisaya Stupa
Walk around the great white dagoba built by King Dutugamunu in 140 BC — one of the most venerated stupas in the Buddhist world.
Jetavanaramaya
The third-largest structure in the ancient world after the two great Egyptian pyramids — a colossal brick stupa that once stood 122 metres tall.
Lunch Break
Enjoy a local lunch at a recommended restaurant near the heritage zone.
Abhayagiri Monastery Complex
Explore the extensive ruins of the monastery that once housed 5,000 monks — terraced ponds, moonstone thresholds, and carved elephant walls.
Isurumuniya Rock Temple
A beautifully carved rock temple with a small lake, home to the famous Isurumuniya Lovers bas-relief — one of the finest pieces of ancient Sri Lankan sculpture.
Departure
Drive back to your hotel, arriving by approximately 8:30 PM.
Book This Day Tour
Contact us to check availability and get a personalised quote. We handle everything — vehicle, guide, and pick-up.
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What's Included
- Private air-conditioned vehicle
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Hotel pick-up & drop-off
- Entrance fees
- Bottled water
Not Included
- Meals
- Tips
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses