Anuradhapura, situated in Sri Lanka's north-central province, is a significant urban center. It is situated in the dry zone of Sri Lanka. The terrain is generally flat with scattered low hills and small lakes. It serves as the capital city of the North Central Province and Anuradhapura District. Positioned along the banks of the historic Malwathu Oya, Anuradhapura city is located 205 kilometers (127 miles) north of Sri Lanka's executive and judicial capital, Colombo. Anuradhapura has a land area of approximately 7,179 square kilometers (2,772 square miles). Renowned for its remarkably preserved remnants of the ancient Sinhalese civilization, Anuradhapura has attained the status of a World Heritage Site. Anuradhapura is one of the prominent Cultural Triangle sites. The other Cultural Triangle sites being Polonnaruwa, Kandy,Sigiriya and Dambulla. Anuradhapura city can be reached from Colombo via Kurunegala -Dambulla -Anuradhapura road, or via Kandy-Dambulla- Anuradhapura road or from Puttalam along Trincomalee road. The driving distance to Anuradhapura from Colombo is 205 Km and it is 138 Km from Kandy. Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa driving distance is 101 Km.
Anuradhapura was founded by a minister of King Vijaya whose name was Anuradha. King Vijaya of an Indo Aryan origin arrived in Sri Lanka on the latter part of the 6th Century BC and started the settlement by the side of Malwathu Oya (River Malwatu) . Anuradhapura remained as a Kingdom for almost 15 centuries and was a prominent political and trade center in South Asia during this period.
It is said that the Sinhala nation has originated from the natives of the island and the Indo aryans like Vijaya and followers, who came and settled in the island from around 6th Century BC and there onwards. The native clans were called as Yakshas and Nagas.
In the 4th century BC, King Pandukabhaya made Anuradhapura the capital of his Kingdom.
Around 250 BC , King Asoka became the Emperor of India and became a Buddhist. His son and the daughter were ordained as a Bhikku and a Bhikkuni (Buddhist priest and a nun named Mahinda and Sangamitta) and became Arhat. Emperor Asoka sent nine Buddhist delegations to nine countries and due to the close links with the King of Anuradhapura, Devanampiya Tissa Asoka sent one of the delegations comprising Arhat Mahinda to Sri Lanka. Arhat Mihidu met the King Devanampiyatissa at a place called Mihintale Rock about 12 km from Anuradhapura on a Poson (June) Full Moon day and embraced Buddhism after a dialogue among the two.
Arhat Mahinda spent rest of his life in Sri Lanka and with the patronage of the King, started the Gautama Buddha Sasana ( Buddhist order of the Lord Gautama Buddha ) in Sri Lanka. Then started an era of culture interwoven with Buddhist philosophy that created an agricultural based society. Anuradhapura ruins of historical, cultural and architectural importance can still be seen and gives a glimpse of what had been the country at that time.
The Atamasthana, also known as the Eight Sacred Places, are a group of locations in Sri Lanka that hold great significance in Buddhist history. These places are associated with the visits of Gautama Buddha during his three visits to the country. Each of these sites is revered by Buddhists and holds a special place in Sri Lanka's religious and cultural landscape. Foremost of the Anuradhapura historical places are Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya, Ruwanwelisaya, Thuparamaya, Lovamahapaya, Abhayagiri Dagoba, Jetavanarama, Mirisaveti Stupa, Lankarama Stupa, Isurumuniya Temple, Ratanaprasada, Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds), Ath Pokuna (Elephant Pond), and Gal Palama (Stone Bridge).
The sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, the oldest historically authenticated tree in the world, believed to have grown from a sapling of the original Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India.
Ruwanwelisaya stupa, one of the largest stupas in Sri Lanka. It is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists
Jetavanaramaya stupa, which was once the tallest stupa in the world. It showcases the architectural prowess of ancient Sri Lankan civilization.
Thuparamaya, the first stupa built in Sri Lanka and a revered site for Buddhists. It enshrines the right collarbone relic of the Buddha.
Abhayagiri Monastery, which was a renowned center of learning and one of the largest monastic complexes in ancient Sri Lanka.
Isurumuniya Temple, known for its rock-cut Buddha statues, beautiful carvings, and serene surroundings.
Kuttam Pokuna, also known as the Twin Ponds or Twin Baths, which were part of an ancient water management system.
Mirisaveti Stupa, an ancient stupa believed to have been built by King Dutugemunu. It features intricate stone carvings and offers a peaceful atmosphere.
Samadhi Buddha Statue, a seated Buddha statue renowned for its serene expression and meditative pose.
Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum depicts the city's history and artifacts which showcases a vast collection of ancient artifacts from the region.
Lovamahapaya (Brazen Palace), also known as the Brazen Palace. This massive structure was once a nine-story building with a thousand chambers, serving as a residence for monks.
Lankarama, an ancient stupa built by King Valagamba. It features intricate carvings and is an important place of worship for Buddhists.
Take a short trip from Anuradhapura to Mihintale, a sacred mountain considered the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Climb the steps to reach the summit and explore the various temples, stupas, and ancient ruins while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Jethawanaramaya Museum which is adjacent to the Jetavanaramaya stupa, displays a collection of artifacts, sculptures, and models related to the stupa and its history. It provides visitors with a deeper understanding of the stupa's construction and significance.
Rathna Prasadaya, where the famoua Moonstone and the Naga Guard stone can be seen.
Eth Pokuna, also known as Elephant Pond, which is a large ancient reservoir located within the city.
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