Things to do in Anuradhapura

Activities, attractions and tours

Stupa with exposed red bricks. #stupa #dagoba #Abhayagiri #Anuradhapura #SriLanka
Stupa with exposed red bricks. #stupa #dagoba #Abhayagiri #Anuradhapura #SriLanka
Jaw dropping ... how they built this almost perfect half sphere one brick at a time? #stupa #Ruwanwelisaya #Anuradhapura #SriLanka
A city full of ancient Buddhist ruins
One of the stupas in Anuradhapura
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What to do in Anuradhapura

Popular places to visit

Jaw dropping ... how they built this almost perfect half sphere one brick at a time? #stupa #Ruwanwelisaya #Anuradhapura #SriLanka

Ruwanwelisaya

You can find out about the history of Anuradhapura with a trip to Ruwanwelisaya. You can seek out the biking trails while in the area.

Ruwanwelisaya

Sri Maha Bodhi

Sri Maha Bodhi is just one of the places to see in Anuradhapura, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? You can seek out the biking trails while in the area.

Sri Maha Bodhi

Nuwara Wewa

Learn about the local history of Anuradhapura with a stop at Nuwara Wewa. You can seek out the biking trails while in the area.

Nuwara Wewa

Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum

You can study the exhibits at Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum, a museum with a storied past, during your travels to Anuradhapura. You can seek out the biking trails while in the area.

Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum

Thuparamaya

You can find out about the history of Anuradhapura when you stop by Thuparamaya. You can seek out the biking trails while in the area.

Thuparamaya

Mirisawetiya Stupa

Learn about the local history of Anuradhapura with a stop at Mirisawetiya Stupa. You can seek out the biking trails while in the area.

Mirisawetiya Stupa

Jetavanaramaya

Find out about the history of Anuradhapura when you take a trip to Jetavanaramaya. You can seek out the biking trails while in the area.

Jetavanaramaya

Isurumuniya Vihara

Learn about the local history of Anuradhapura when you take a trip to Isurumuniya Vihara. You can seek out the biking trails while in the area.

Isurumuniya Vihara

Abhayagiri Dagoba

Learn about the local history of Anuradhapura with a stop at Abhayagiri Dagoba. You can seek out the biking trails while in the area.

Abhayagiri Dagoba

Areas of Anuradhapura

As we walked 12km along the roads of Anuradhapura, we felt too tired. Fortunately, this poor looking shop was there. Though the appearance is so, Orange juice made by this lady is delicious. It completely reduced our thirst and tiresome nature. People in these poor villages prefer to do these kind of shops in order to earn something more. Their principal way of earning is agriculture. But it's really difficult to overcome the battle of living as they don't have enough money even to buy primary necessities.

Wijayapura

While Wijayapura might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Nuwara Wewa and Mirisawetiya Stupa.

Wijayapura

Frequently asked questions

Is Anuradhapura worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Anuradhapura is visit Royal Palace of King Vijayabahu I. Check this leading sight off your agenda, then experience more of the area's walking trails and history.
How do I spend a day in Anuradhapura?
When you've checked off key attractions like Royal Palace of King Vijayabahu I and Mahasena's Palace, spend some time enjoying Anuradhapura's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Anuradhapura?
The top tourist attraction in Anuradhapura is Royal Palace of King Vijayabahu I, so make sure to add it to your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Anuradhapura?
Three days in Anuradhapura is more than enough to enjoy the city's major attractions. Many guests stay for two days on average. Royal Palace of King Vijayabahu I, Mahasena's Palace and Brazen Palace are among the top-rated sights. Want to experience more? Hang around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots such as Habarana.
Is Anuradhapura a walkable city?
It all depends on what you want to see and do in Anuradhapura. Several top sights, like Brazen Palace and Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Anuradhapura's best neighborhoods, New Town is 3 kilometers away from downtown, while Wijayapura is 2 kilometers away from the city center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Anuradhapura with kids?
Whether you're traveling with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes a big difference. Check out our ideas for what to do in Anuradhapura with kids.

What to do in Anuradhapura for adults?
Mirisawetiya Stupa and Anuradhapura Folk Museum are just a few of the things to do in Anuradhapura. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Anuradhapura?
In Anuradhapura, Abhayagiri Dagoba is an unmissable spot for anyone looking to experience the city without taking their wallet out. Also, stroll around the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's a good way to find out about the best free things to do in Anuradhapura.