fogtour

Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura: A Sacred Journey Through Sri Lanka’s Ancient Capital

Anuradhapura: A Sacred Journey Through Sri Lanka’s Ancient Capital

Anuradhapura, one of Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals, is a UNESCO World Heritage site steeped in history and spirituality. Founded in the 4th century BCE, this sacred city is renowned for its well-preserved ruins, ancient stupas, and vibrant temples. As a center of Buddhist culture, it is home to the revered Sri Maha Bodhi tree, believed to be a sapling from the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. Visitors can explore grand monuments like the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, the Abhayagiri Monastery, and the Samadhi Buddha statue. Anuradhapura offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the spiritual and architectural splendor of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.

5 Things Not to Miss in Anuradhapura:

Sri Maha Bodhi Tree
Ruwanwelisaya Stupa
Abhayagiri Monastery
Samadhi Buddha Statue
Isurumuniya Temple

Ruwanwelisaya (Giant Stupa)

Ruwanwelisaya is a majestic giant stupa in Anuradhapura, built in the 2nd century BC. It symbolizes Buddhist devotion and houses sacred relics, making it one of Sri Lanka's most important pilgrimage sites.

Isurumuniya Rock Temple-elephant pond

Isurumuniya Rock Temple in Anuradhapura is renowned for its rock carvings, particularly the famous "Lovers" sculpture. A highlight is the Elephant Pond, featuring striking carvings of elephants bathing in the water, showcasing ancient Sri Lankan craftsmanship. The temple offers serene views and is a significant spiritual and archaeological site.

Mihintale (Birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka)

Mihintale is a historic site in Sri Lanka, known as the birthplace of Buddhism on the island. This sacred mountain, where Emperor Ashoka's son, Mahinda, introduced Buddhism in the 3rd century BC, features ancient stupas, monastic ruins, and a serene atmosphere. Visitors can explore the impressive stairways leading to the summit, which offers breathtaking views and a deep sense of spirituality.

Samadhi Buddha Statue

Samadhi Buddha Statue is a remarkable 4th-century statue located in Anuradhapura, depicting the Buddha in a serene meditative pose. Carved from granite, it exemplifies ancient Sri Lankan artistry and spirituality, attracting pilgrims and visitors alike.

Lankarama Stupa

Lankarama Stupa is a striking ancient stupa in Anuradhapura, notable for its unique circular shape and intricate brickwork. Dating back to the 2nd century BC, it serves as a significant Buddhist relic site and symbolizes Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage.

Kuttam Pokuna (Twin ponds)

Kuttam Pokuna, or Twin Ponds, are ancient granite bathing pools in Anuradhapura. Dating back to the 4th century, they feature intricate carvings and showcase remarkable engineering from Sri Lanka’s ancient civilization.

Jetavanaramaya (World’s tallest stupa)

Jetavanaramaya, the world’s tallest stupa in Anuradhapura, stands at 120 meters tall, showcasing ancient Sri Lankan architecture. It symbolizes Buddhist devotion and houses relics, making it a major pilgrimage site.

Sri Maha Bodhi (Sacred Bodhi Tree)

Sri Maha Bodhi is the sacred Bodhi Tree in Anuradhapura, believed to be a cutting from the original tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. Planted in 288 BC, it is the oldest living tree with a known planting date, making it a highly revered site for Buddhists. The tree is surrounded by a beautiful railing and offers a serene atmosphere, drawing pilgrims and tourists seeking spiritual solace and connection to Buddhism's rich history.

Abhayagiriya Monastery

Abhayagiriya Monastery is one of the largest and most significant ancient Buddhist complexes in Anuradhapura. Once a major monastic center, it features the towering Abhayagiri Stupa, intricate stone carvings, and remnants of ancient buildings. It served as a hub for Buddhist scholarship and practice, making it a key historical and spiritual site in Sri Lanka.

Thuparamaya (Oldest stupa)

Thuparamaya is the oldest stupa in Sri Lanka, dating back to the 3rd century BC. Located in Anuradhapura, it is believed to house the relic of the Buddha, making it a significant pilgrimage site. The stupa features a distinctive cylindrical shape and intricate carvings, symbolizing early Buddhist architecture in the country. Surrounded by lush gardens, Thuparamaya offers a serene atmosphere for reflection and reverence, attracting visitors keen to explore Sri Lanka's rich spiritual heritage.

FOOD HUNT

Anuradhapura: The Heritage and Spice of Ancient Sri Lanka

Why It’s Special: Anuradhapura, one of Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals, offers a taste of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine that dates back to centuries of royal history. While exploring the ancient ruins, you can sample local dishes that feature spices and ingredients that have been grown and traded in Sri Lanka for thousands of years.

Must-Try Foods:

Kiri Bath (Milk Rice): A traditional dish made from rice cooked in coconut milk, often served with lunu miris (a spicy onion relish) or sambal.
Curry Leaves and Coconut Dishes: The cuisine of Anuradhapura is known for its use of fresh curry leaves and coconut in dishes like “kola kanda” (herbal rice porridge) or “pol sambol”.
Jackfruit Curry: Sri Lanka’s national fruit, jackfruit is used in savory curries and is often served as a substitute for meat.

Food Hunt Locations:

Local Street Markets: Anuradhapura has various local markets where you can sample fresh produce, dried spices, and simple street snacks such as “vadai” (fried lentil cakes).
Village Eateries: Visit a traditional village eatery to sample rice and curry served with locally sourced vegetables and meats.