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City in North Central Province, Sri Lanka
Photo: Pierre André Leclercq, CC BY 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage listed city in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka.
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The Sri Maha Bodhiya
The second most sacred place in Sri Lanka, after the Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth) in Kandy and also part of the eight sacred places in Sri Lanka. The Bodhi Tree is allegedly a cutting from the original Bodhi tree under which the Buddha gained enlightenment, and has been continuously guarded for over 2,000 years, making it the oldest historically authenticated tree in the world. The temple complex is surrounded by walls, and is quite busy with monks and worshipers. Due to terrorist activities in the 1980s, it is not possible to drive up to the temple, and one must go through a metal detector before entering the complex. Bags will be checked. Shoes can be left near the entrance. It is polite to leave a tip.
The oldest and most voluminous stupa at Anuradhapura, has been fully restored, painted white, and is a centre of worship. Walk from the Sri Maha Bodhiya, past the Brazen Palace (an ancient palace that once supported a bronze roof) to the stupa. There are several image houses at the stupa, as well as four smaller stupas in the four corners of the complex. Please be respectful of the worshippers at the site. This is also one of the eight sacred places of Sri Lanka.
අභයගිරි දාගැබ, அபயகிரி விகாரை
A monastery site of Theravada Buddhism.
Showcases many of the artifacts found at the site, from jewellery and gems to coins and pottery. The museum is more focused on religious and elite objects, although some commoner artifacts are also shown.
ජේතවනාරාමය
Large stupa (Buddhist worship structure. Also known as "Dagoba"), undergoing restoration work. Part of the Jetavana Monastery. At ~120 m (400 ft) tall, this was the third tallest structure in the ancient world (after the Great Pyramids at Giza), and the largest in Sri Lanka. It is also one of the eight sacred places of Sri Lanka
The 1,600 stone pillars that we see today are what are left of an enormous building. Also called the Brazen Palace, this nine-storey monastery was once home to a thousand monks, whose duties included tending the sacred Bo tree, which grew right next to the building. King Dutugemunu (the palace founder) saw to it that the roof of Lovamahapaya was covered in bronze tiles, and that its walls were decorated with silver and precious stones.
Exactly what you want in a backpacker's hostel - good social area, helpful hosts and the cheapest and easiest shared tours around the town, Mihintale or Wilpattu. The hosts will often sit with the guests in the evening and keep the social good times rolling. The location is very close to the public bus station and convenient for the railway station and temple complexes. Contact on whatsapp to get the real dorm price.
Shalini Tourist Rest
The terrace restaurant which is in a unique British colonial-style building serves authentic and delicious Sri Lankan rice & curry, high quality Western as well as Chinese food. Price range: Rs 350 - 850. Opening hours: 06:00-11:00, 13:00-15:00, 18:00-23:30.
Hidden away from the hustle and bustle of town, the hosts of Lake House Homestay will do their very best to make your stay an enjoyable one. Always active and responsive in meeting your needs and giving accurate advice. They provide breakfast, lunch and dinner for 900Rs each (which is convenient as there is not much other food nearby). A fantastic place to stay as a couple or a group with their own transport, though not ideal as a single traveller because tuk tuks to the main attractions are ~600Rs.
Galway Miridiya Lodge
It is very close to ancient sites and outdoor wonders. 39 standard and deluxe rooms are available, with modern facilities. Facilities include an in-house restaurant, bar, swimming pool, and meditation facility. Excursions to tourist sites can be arranged.
In the heart of the town, surrounded by a well maintained garden. It has 16 clean spacious rooms with a/c, hot water, satellite t/v and telephone facilities. Internet/email facilities are free of charge.
By bus
From Colombo, slower non-AC buses go from Central Bus Station (Find routes 4, 15, 57; Rs.
By train
There are two train stations in and around Anuradhapura, which can take you to/from Colombo (4½ hours, 3 each day), a first class seat costs Rs 2000-2400 depending on the train, 2nd class Rs 1200.
By road
Anuradhapura is on the A9 highway, Kandy is 166 km away. The drive from Colombo takes approximately 4 hours.
Tuk tuks and buses are abundant. The PickMe app is the ridesharing app of choice here, for motorbikes, tuk tuks and taxis. The New Town is relatively small, and can be walked from one end to another in half an hour.
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