Step back in time and explore the remnants of a once-thriving civilisation. Sacred Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s oldest kingdom, flourished as a powerful kingdom for over 15 centuries, leaving behind a treasure trove of archaeological wonders. With its rich historical significance and cultural heritage, Anuradhapura is a magical day trip destination from Sigiriya for couples seeking to explore beyond the Lion Rock city.
Anuradhapura is Sri Lanka’s cradle of civilisation. Established over 2,000 years ago, archaeologists are still finding evidence that a complex culture and an advanced civilisation blossomed here even before the city’s official dawn as a kingdom.
Located in the dry zone of the north-central province, the city is the capital of the North Central Province and Anuradhapura District. Covering an area of about 7,179 square kilometres (2,772 square miles), Anuradhapura is renowned for its well-preserved remnants of ancient Sinhalese civilisation, which have earned it the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Located an hour and 30 minutes from Sigiriya in the North Central Province, Anuradhapura is easily accessible via road with the best times to visit the city being between September to April.
Anuradhapura was founded by Anuradha, a minister of King Vijaya, who arrived in Sri Lanka in the latter part of the 6th century BC. King Vijaya, of Indo-Aryan origin, initiated the settlement by the side of Malwathu Oya (River Malwatu). For nearly 15 centuries, Anuradhapura remained a kingdom and a prominent political and trade centre in South Asia.
In the 4th century BC, King Pandukabhaya established Anuradhapura as the capital of his kingdom. Around 250 BC, Emperor Asoka of India became a Buddhist and sent his son Mahinda and daughter Sangamitta to the island. Both ordained as Buddhist monastics and achieved enlightenment, Arhat Mahinda met King Devanampiya Tissa of Anuradhapura at Mihintale Rock, leading to the king’s conversion and the island’s population to Buddhism. Arhat Mahinda spent the rest of his life in Sri Lanka, fostering the establishment of Buddhism with royal patronage. This ushered in an era of culture intertwined with Buddhist philosophy, creating an advanced hydraulic agricultural society. The ruins of Anuradhapura, rich in historical, cultural, and architectural significance, provide a glimpse into this ancient civilisation.
Anuradhapura is 205 km away from Colombo and accessible via two main road routes. Several train options, including intercity and express trains, are also available. The train takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes to reach Anuradhapura.
The Lankaramaya Stupa, one of the oldest stupas in the Anuradhapura kingdom, was constructed during the first century BCE under the patronage of King Walagamba. Despite being in ruins for several centuries, the iconic structure has recently undergone renovation. It now attracts thousands of devotees from across the country as part of being the last of the eight sacred sites or “Atamasthana”. While the original stupa’s height is speculated to have been much taller, the current structure measures approximately 32 feet.
Eth Pokuna, or Elephant Pond, is a historically significant site in the Abhayagiriya complex situated close to Lankaramaya Stupa. It was built and expanded between the 4th century BCE and the 11th century CE. Serving as a vital water source, Eth Pokuna boasts a well-preserved stone embankment, showcasing the advanced engineering skills of the ancient island civilisation. This pond was crucial in providing water for monastic complexes and surrounding areas, supporting various religious activities and rituals such as bathing and ceremonial purposes. Its association with nearby monastic settlements and Buddhist temples highlights its spiritual significance. At the same time, its architectural beauty and historical importance make it a popular tourist attraction within the Anuradhapura archaeological complex. Efforts are underway to preserve and conserve this valuable cultural heritage site, which offers insights into ancient hydraulic engineering practices and the significance of water management during that era.
Ratnaprasada, the Uposatagaraya or Chapter House of the Abayagiriya Viharaya, stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the Anuradhapura period. Constructed during the reign of King Kanittha Tissa around 164-192 AD, this structure underwent expansions and enhancements under King Mahinda II between AD 772-792. At its entrance lies a remarkable Guardstone featuring a sculpture of a Naga King holding the Pun Kalasa, symbolising abundance and prosperity. Additionally, Ratnaprasada boasts a fine example of a Korawakgala or Balustrade, adorned with intricate carvings of mythical creatures and floral patterns, serving both functional and ornamental purposes. This architectural marvel offers insights into the cultural and artistic heritage of ancient Sri Lanka, inviting visitors to marvel at its historical significance and craftsmanship.
The Atamasthana, or Eight Sacred Places, in Anuradhapura, is significant in Anuradhapura’s Buddhist history. Featuring the most sacred sites, the Atamasthana locations in Anuradhapura are the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya, Ruwanwelisaya, Thuparamaya, Lovamahapaya, Abhayagiri Dagoba, Jetavanarama, Mirisaveti Stupa, Lankarama Stupa. Buddhists cherish each of these sites and play a pivotal role in the spiritual and historical landscape of Sri Lanka.
The sacred and ancient city of Anuradhapura promises a journey of discovery, romance, and cultural immersion. From marvelling at the towering stupas and intricate stone carvings to strolling hand in hand through serene gardens and tranquil lakes, Anuradhapura offers a perfect blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Whether witnessing a breathtaking sunset from the top of Mihintale or exploring the enigmatic ruins of Ranmasu Uyana, every moment spent in Anuradhapura creates lasting memories of adventure and romance. With its rich heritage and captivating ambience, Anuradhapura beckons couples to embark on a timeless voyage of exploration and connection amidst the echoes of ancient civilisations.
