Discover the ancient city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, filled with magnificent Buddhist temples, historical ruins, and vibrant culture that will transport you back in time.
I am excited to share with you the hidden treasures of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. This ancient city is filled with magnificent Buddhist temples, historical ruins, and vibrant culture that will transport you back in time. So pack your bags, and let’s dive into the sights and little-known places of Anuradhapura.
Anuradhapura is located in the north-central part of Sri Lanka and is one of the oldest and most sacred cities in the country. This UNESCO World Heritage site was the capital of Sri Lanka from the 4th century BCE until the 11th century CE and is considered the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. It’s a city filled with ancient stupas, ruins, and temples that will leave you in awe.
One of the most impressive sights in Anuradhapura is the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree that is said to have grown from a cutting of the original fig tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. The tree is over 2,200 years old and is the oldest living tree in the world. It’s a revered site for Buddhists and a must-see for anyone visiting Anuradhapura.
Another remarkable sight is the Ruwanwelisaya, a stupa that was built in the 2nd century BCE. The stupa is 338 feet high and is one of the largest in Sri Lanka. It’s a stunning structure that is covered in intricate carvings and is a testament to the incredible engineering and architectural prowess of ancient Sri Lankans.
But Anuradhapura is not just about the famous sights; it’s also about the little-known places that are waiting to be discovered. One of these hidden gems is the Isurumuniya temple, a small temple located near the Tissa Wewa reservoir. The temple is known for its beautiful rock carvings, including the famous “Isurumuniya Lovers.” The carvings are believed to be over 2,000 years old and depict a couple in an embrace. It’s a touching piece of art that showcases the romantic side of ancient Sri Lankan culture.
Another little-known place is the Abhayagiri Monastery, which was one of the largest monasteries in ancient Sri Lanka. Today, it’s a peaceful and tranquil site that is home to many ancient ruins and sculptures. The monastery is also home to the Samadhi Buddha statue, which is considered one of the finest examples of Buddha statues in Sri Lanka.
As you explore Anuradhapura, you’ll also discover the vibrant culture of Sri Lanka. The city is home to many festivals throughout the year, including the Poson festival, which celebrates the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. During this festival, the city comes alive with vibrant decorations, food, and traditional dance performances.
In conclusion, Anuradhapura is a hidden gem that is waiting to be explored. It’s a city filled with ancient ruins, sacred sites, and vibrant culture that will leave you in awe. So pack your bags and take a trip to Anuradhapura to discover the sights and little-known places of this ancient city.