Anuradhapura is one of the oldest cities in Sri Lanka, filled with ancient temples, peaceful lakes and sacred sites that tell stories from thousands of years ago. It’s a place where history and culture come together in the most beautiful way.
In this blog, we will explore the best places to visit in Anuradhapura, from massive stupas to quiet monasteries. Whether you are planning your trip or browsing through Sri Lanka tours, these Anuradhapura famous places should definitely be on your travel list.
26 Best Places to Visit in Anuradhapura
Ruwanweli Maha Seya, also known as Ruwanweliaya is one of the most sacred and impressive Buddhist stupas in Sri Lanka. Built in the 2nd century BC by King Dutugemunu, this massive white dome stands as a symbol of pride and devotion in Anuradhapura. Surrounded by stone elephant carvings and peaceful courtyards, it is a peaceful spot where locals and visitors alike come to meditate, offer flowers and simply admire its beauty.
Whether you are here for the culture, spirituality or just to take in the sights, it’s one of the top places to visit in Anuradhapura.
Location: Ruwanweliseya Temple, Abhayawewa Rd, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Timings: 24 hours
Things to do at Ruwanweli Maha Seya: Walk around, observe rituals, sit quietly for meditation, view the stupa illuminated at night
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The Sri Maha Bodhi is one of the most important and peaceful spots in Anuradhapura. This ancient fig tree is more than 2,000 years old and is believed to be a branch from the original Bodhi tree in India, where the Buddha found enlightenment.
Locals come here every day to pray, light oil lamps and offer flowers. Visitors are welcome to walk around the tree, enjoy the calm atmosphere and take in the history that surrounds it.
Location: 89VW+VV5, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Timings: 5 AM - 9 PM
Things to do at Sri Maha Bodhi: Offer flowers, walk around the tree respectfully, observe traditional Buddhist rituals, meditate, listen to Dhamma talks, learn about history.
Thuparamaya is believed to be the first stupa ever built in Sri Lanka, making it one of the most historically important tourist places in Anuradhapura. It was constructed during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd Century BC after Buddhism was introduced to the island.
What makes Thuparamaya stand out is its classic bell shape and the rows of stone pillars that surround the stupa, believed to be remains of the ancient structure that once covered it.
Location: 994W+4HQ, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Timings: 7 AM - 5 PM
Things to do at Thuparamaya: Admire the ancient stupa, walk around the Dagoba respectfully, offer flowers, observe the stone pillars, meditate.
Located just a short walk away from the more popular stupas, Mirisawetiya Temple is one of those quiet gems that many travelers overlook, but shouldn’t. As one of the oldest Anuradhapura attractions, it was built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BC and carries a unique story with it.
Its peaceful setting, with fewer crowds and shady surroundings, makes it a great spot to pause and take in the beauty of one of the most beautiful temples of Sri Lanka.
Location: Thisawewa, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM
Things to do at Mirisawetiya temple: Visit the historic stupa, make a simple offering, sit and reflect in silence, learn the story behind the temple, observe traditional rituals
If you are looking for something a little different from the massive stupas, Isurumuniya Temple is one of the most unique Anuradhapura attractions you can visit. Set against a rock face and surrounded by water, this ancient rock temple combines beauty with history.
This temple is best known for the famous stone carving called “The Isuruminiya Lovers”, a graceful sculpture that’s over 1,500 years old and still manages to capture attention with its emotion and detail. But’ there’s more here than just art. You will find a small museum, a beautiful shrine, and even a short climb up the rock behind the temple that gives you a great view of the surroundings.
Location: 89MR+R7R, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Timings: 8 AM - 6 PM
Things to do at Isurumuniya Temple: Witness the famous Isurumuniya Lovers carving, explore rock temple, visit the Rock Pond, explore the small museum, photography, meditate.
Calm, graceful and carved from a single block of stone, the Samadhi Buddha Statue is one of the most admired Anuradhapura tourist attractions. This 4th-century masterpiece shows the Buddha in deep meditation, seated in the Dhyana Mudra - a traditional pose that represents inner peace and enlightenment.
There’s no gold, no towering walls, just pure serenity in stone. Many visitors say it’s one of the most peaceful places to visit in Anuradhapura and you will likely find both travelers and locals sitting nearby!
Location: 999X+X73, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Timings: 6 AM - 9 PM
Things to do at Samadhi Buddha Statue: Admire the peaceful Buddha statue, observe the fine stone carving, sit and meditate nearby, offer flowers and pay respect.
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One of the largest monasteries in the world, Abhayagiri Vihara is a must-visit for anyone exploring the ancient city. Built in the 1st Century BC by King Valagamba, it was home to thousands of monks and a major center for Buddhist learning and rituals. Today. This site is in ruins but what remains still tells the story of its past glory.
This towering stups is one of the most impressive things to see in Anuradhapura. Surrounding it are stone carvings, moonstones, guardstones and the remains of ancient meditation halls.
Location: 99CW+94C, Watawandana Road, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Timings: 7 AM - 6 PM
Things to do at Abhayagiriya Vihara: Explore the massive stupa, walk around, visit the Abhayagiri museum, see the famous moonstone, meditate, visit the twin ponds
8. Ranmasu Uyana (Royal Park)
Hidden between ancient temples of Sri Lanka, Ranmasu Uyana or the Royal Park is one of the most peaceful and fascinating Anuradhapura tourist attractions. Once a pleasure garden for kings and monks, this beautiful park is full of walkways and mystery now.
This site dates back over 2,000 years and was used for relaxation, meditation and even royal bathing rituals. You will also find the famous “Star Gate”, a strange tone carving that has sparked curiosity among everyone.
Location: 89QQ+9W9, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM
Things to do at Ranmasu Uyana: Explore the ancient royal gardens, see the ancient royal bathing pools, discover Sakwala Chakraya, enjoy nature walk, spot wildlife, photography
9. Archaeological Museum, Anuradhapura
If you have been exploring ancient ruins all day and want to actually understand what you are looking at, the Archaeological Museum in Anuradhapura is the place to go. It’s one of the most interesting yet often overlooked Anuradhapura attractions.
You will find old coins, statues, tools, pottery and even parts of old temples, are carefully preserved. It’s a small museum but full of details, making it one of the best places to visit in Anuradhapura if you want to know more about the culture.
Location: 89WV+XCH, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Time: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Things to do at Archaeological museum: Explore ancient artifacts, view ancient inscriptions and scripts, see Buddhist and Hindu sculptures.
10. Jetavanaramaya Monastery
If you are looking for one of the most amazing places to visit in Anuradhapura, the Jetavanaramaya Monastery should be high on your list. This massive stupa was once the third tallest structure in the ancient world, only the pyramids of Giza were taller at that time.
Even in ruins, it is awe-inspiring. It’s one of those Anuradha tourist attractions that truly gives you a sense of how advanced and spiritual ancient Sri Lankan civilization was.
Location: 9C22+QJQ, b341 Watawandana Rd, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Timings: 7 AM - 6 PM
Things to do at Jetavaramaya Monastery: Admire the stupa, walk around, explore the monastery ruins, visit the museum, observe ancient architecture.
11. Wilpattu National Park
Not everyone in Anuradhapura is made of stone! Just northwest of the ancient city lies Wilpattu National Park, a wild escape of jungle trails, hidden lakes and some Sri Lanka’s most incredible wildlife. It's not only one of the largest national parks in the country but also one of the most thrilling Anuradhapura tourist attractions.
Location: Sri Lanka
Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM
Things to do at Wilpattu National Park: Go on a wildlife safari, spot a Sri Lankan leopard, explore the Villus, birdwatching, enjoy nature walks, have a picnic
Once a dazzling nine-story palace roofed with bronze tiles, Lovamahapaya now stands as a striking forest of stone pillars, which is a powerful reminder of Anuradhapura’s grand past. This site is located between Ruwanwelisaya and Sri Maha Bodhi, serving as a key monastic complex with halls for gatherings and study. Even in ruins, it’s easy to picture the beauty it once had, making it one of the must-see places to visit in Anuradhapura.
Location: 89WX+95G, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM
Things to do at Lovamahapaya: See the impressive stone pillars, learn the history of the Brazen Palace, walk through the sacred area, explore nearby sites
Often called the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, Mihintale is one of the most meaningful Anuradhapura attractions you can visit. This hilltop complex is where Arahant Mahinda is said to have met King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd century BC, introducing Buddhism to the island. With white stupas, amazing viewpoints and old stone steps, it’s on the list of Anuradhapura tourist attractions.
Location: 9G56+FMH, Mihintale, Sri Lanka
Timings: Anytime of the day
Things to do at Mihintale: Climb the ancient stone stairway, visit the Mihintale Stupa, see the Aradhana Gala, Explore the Ancient Ruins, Visit the Kantaka Cetiya, meditate.
14. Ratnaprasada Guard Stone
It is a beautiful carved stone at the entrance of the old Ratnaprasada in the Abhayagiri area. It shows a naga king holding a pot of plenty, with lotus designs and tiny details you can spot up close. It’s small but special, one of the coolest Anuradhapura tourist attractions and a quick stop to add to your list of Anuradhapura tourist places.
Location: 99CR+5FW Abhayagiri Complex, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Timings: 7 AM - 6 PM
Things to do at Ratnaprasada Guard Stone: See the famous Guard stone, Learn the symbolism, explore the ruins of Ratnaprasada, enjoy a quiet historical site, combine with nearby attractions.
It is a colorful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, known for its vibrant gopuram, detailed carvings and rhythmic temple music. If you are exploring Anuradhapura tourist places, this temple is a calm, welcoming stop inside the town area.
Inside, you will find bright murals, oil lamps, and gentle rituals that are beautiful to witness. It’s a great place to come and know more about Tamil Hindu traditions and catch a glimpse of daily worship.
Location: Kadhiresan Kovil, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Timings: Anytime of the day
Things to do at Kathireshan Kovil: Admire the colorful architecture, offers prayers, listen to temple music, join in during a Hindu festival.
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16. Anuradhapura Moonstone
It is the half-round stone placed at the base of temple stairways. Look closely and you will see rings of carvings, flames, animals and finally a lotus at the center. Each ring has meaning, from the cycle of life to the path toward enlightenment. You will find beautiful examples at several entrances around the Sacred City, especially near the Abhaygiri complex.
If you love art and details, this is one of the best places to visit in Anuradhapura for seeing ancient craftsmanship up close. It’s a quick stop, but it helps you read the symbolism hidden in many ruins across the city.
Location: 99CR+HQW, B341, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Timings: 7 AM - 6 PM
Things to do at Anuradhapura Moonstone: Observe the detailed carvings, visit the finest Moonstone at Mahasena’s Palace, take photographs, learn through a guide, combine with a full site visit.
17. Ritigala Archaeological Site
Hidden in a cool, shady forest, Ritigala Archaeological site feels like a secret of stone paths, quiet ruins and meditation platforms. It’s calm, green, and a little mysterious which feels like a perfect break from the big stupas.
Location: 4M88+R93, Palugaswewa, Sri Lanka
Timings: 7 AM - 5PM
Things to do at Ritigala Archaeological Site: Explore the ancient forest monastery ruins, enjoy a quiet nature walk, climb the ancient stone steps, visit the Banda Pokuna, spot wildlife.
Jayanthi Viharaya is a serene and peaceful Buddhist temple renowned for its simple design and tranquil atmosphere. It’s a simple and nice addition to your list of places to visit in Anuradhapura. You will also find a serene Buddha statue, a neat prayer hall and shaded spots to sit for a few minutes. It’s a good place to slow down in between going towards other amazing places in Sri Lanka.
Location: Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Timings: 6 AM - 7 PM
Things to do at Jayanthi Viharaya: Admire the large Buddha statue, walk through the temple grounds, offer flowers, attend a Poya Day Ceremony, talk to a resident monk
19. Anuradhapura Maha Viharaya
Anuradhapura Maha Viharaya is the oldest monastic complex in the city and the heart of early Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Founded in the 3rd Century BC, it grew into a huge learning and worship center with temples, shrines and monk residences. If you are shortlisting places to visit in Anuradhapura, this is essential - it ties together many of the city’s most sacred parts.
Location: 89VW+VJG, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM
Things to do at Anuradhapura Maha Viharaya: Explore the ancient monastic complex, visit the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, learn about the history of Theravada Buddhism, walk along stone-paved paths, visit the Upali Maha Guha.
Tucked away from the big crowds, Lankarama Dagoba is a quiet little stupa with a circle of stone pillars from its old vatadage (roofed shrine). It’s a simple, peaceful and perfect for a short, reflective stop, which is a gentle add to your list of places to visit in Anuradhapura.
Location: 998R+5J6, Lankarama Rd, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Timings: 7 AM - 6 PM
Things to do at Lankarama Dagoba: Admire the stupa, observe the unique vatadage, walk around, take peaceful photographs, combine with Eth Pokuna.
21. Perimiyankulama Stone Bridge
It is a small historical bridge found in the small village of Perimiyankulama, in the Anuradhapura District of Sri Lanka. This bridge is made completely out of stone and is believed to be more than 1000 years old. It was built during the time of the Anuradhapura Kingdom, one of the oldest and most important kingdoms in Sri Lankan history.
Location: 9CX4+99R, B509, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Timings: 7 AM - 10 PM
Things to do at Perimiyankulama Stone Bridge: Admire ancient engineering, walk across the historic bridge, learn about irrigation, enjoy the rural atmosphere.
If you are exploring Anuradhapura tourist attractions, don’t miss the calm and beautiful Tissa Wewa. It was built over 2,000 years ago by King Devanampiya to store water for farming and daily use. Even today, this old reservoir still helps local people and is full of life. The area around the lake is quiet and green, perfect for walking, watching birds or enjoying sunset.
Location: Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Timings: 6 AM - 9 AM | 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Things to do at Thissa Wewa: Take a walk, watch the sunrise or sunset, enjoy birdwatching, take photos, have a local snack by the lake.
23. Mahamevnawa Dhammachethiya Buddhist Monastery
If you are looking for a quiet place to rest your mind during your visit to Anuradhapura, this monastery is the perfect spot. It is part of a well-known group of temples that help people understand the true teachings of the Buddha. Visitors can join meditation sessions, listen to Dhamma talks by kind and friendly monks, or simply enjoy the silence.
Location: Mahamevnawa Dammachetiya Monastery, Watawandana Rd, Anuradhapura 50000, Sri Lanka
Timings: 6 AM - 8 AM | 5 PM - 7 PM
Things to do at Mahamevnawa Dhammachethiya Buddhist Monastery: Experience Peace, join meditation sessions, listen to Dhamma, offer flowers, walk mindfully around the grounds, talk to a monk.
It is a small but important museum located next to the famous Jetavanaramaya Stupa in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It holds many ancient items that were found around the monastery site, including pottery, tools, statues, coins and other historical objects.
The museum also displays beautiful carvings and old stone inscriptions that show the skill of early Sri Lankan artists. It’s a quiet place, not very crowded, and perfect for anyone interested in history and archaeology. If you're exploring Anuradhapura tourist attractions, the Jetavanarama Museum is a great place to learn more about Sri Lanka's rich cultural past.
Location: 8CX3+8F2, Sri Barathindra Mawatha, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Timings: 8 AM - 5 PM
Things to do at Jetavanarama Museum: Explore ancient artifacts, learn about monastery life, admire beautiful srone scultptures, understand ancient architecture, read historical inscriptions.
25. Tantirimale Rajamaha Viharaya
Tantirimale Rajamaha Viharaya is a beautiful and peaceful ancient temple located about 30 km northwest of Anuradhapura. Surrounded by rocky hills and forest, this historic temple is known for its large reclining Buddha statue carved from rock, an ancient Bodhi tree, and centuries-old rock inscriptions.
Location: H7F4+C8W, Thanthirimale Road, Thanthirimale, Sri Lanka
Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM
Things to do at Tantrimale Rajmaha Viharaya: Admire the Ancient Rock Temple, see the reclining Buddha statue, visit the sacred Bodhi tree, walk across the landscape.
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26. Kaludiya Pokuna Archaeological Site
It is a quiet and hidden historical place located near Mihintale, close to Anuradhapura. The name “Kaludiya Pokuna” means black water pond in Sinhala, named after the dark reflection of the pond surrounded by trees and rocks.
The area was once a Buddhist monastery dating back to 1,000 years old and today it’s a spot for people to enjoy quiet walks, archaeology and birdwatching, far from the crowded tourist areas.
Location: Mihintale, Sri Lanka
Timings: 6 AM - 9 AM | 4 PM - 6 PM
Things to do at Kaludiya Pokuna Archaeological Site: Explore the ancient ruins, visit the Black water pond, walk along forest trails, observe ancient inscriptions and carvings, meditate, photography
