Things to do in Anuradhapura

Activities, attractions and tours

A large brick dome structure with a smaller brick building on top, set against a partly cloudy sky.
A large white dome with a golden spire, surrounded by a low wall with colorful stripes.
A large, white stupa with a golden spire, surrounded by stone steps and a cloudy sky.
A large, domed structure with a conical roof, surrounded by a fence and a small pond reflecting the building.
Two Buddha statues in meditation poses, one yellow and one orange, with a spiral design in the background and purple flowers in the foreground.

Things to do

Jaya sri maha Bodhi tree

One Day Tour - Sacred city of Anuradhapura & Sacred city of Mihintale. (Sunset)

P3,077
per adult
One Day Tour - Sacred city of Anuradhapura & Sacred city of Mihintale. (Sunset)
Minneriya Safari from Sigiriya Eco Jeep Adventure

Minneriya Safari from Sigiriya Eco Jeep Adventure

P2,637
per adult
Minneriya Safari from Sigiriya Eco Jeep Adventure
Private Day Trip To Anuradhapura Ancient City

Private Day Trip To Anuradhapura Ancient City

P6,153
per adult
Private Day Trip To Anuradhapura Ancient City
Picture 1 for Activity Polonnaruwa Sight Seeing Tour and Minneriya Elephant Safari

Polonnaruwa Sight Seeing Tour and Minneriya Elephant Safari

P7,335
per adult
Polonnaruwa Sight Seeing Tour and Minneriya Elephant Safari
Day Tour Anuradhapura from Kandy by Lux Tours Lanka

Day Tour Anuradhapura from Kandy by Lux Tours Lanka

P6,564
per traveler
Day Tour Anuradhapura from Kandy by Lux Tours Lanka
Anuradhapura : Ancient City TukTuk Tour

Anuradhapura: Tuk-Tuk Tour of the Ancient City & Hidden Gems

P1,446
per traveler
Anuradhapura: Tuk-Tuk Tour of the Ancient City & Hidden Gems
Private Guided TukTuk Tour to Anuradhapura Ancient City

Private Guided TukTuk Tour to Anuradhapura Ancient City

P1,846
per adult
Private Guided TukTuk Tour to Anuradhapura Ancient City
Minneriya Wild Adventure with Expert Driver-Guide

Minneriya Elephant Safari with Expert Local Driver-Guide

P1,174
per adult
Minneriya Elephant Safari with Expert Local Driver-Guide
Picture 1 for Activity From Sigiriya: Minneriya National Park Private Jeep Safari

Sigiriya: Ethical Hurulu Elephant Safari With Guide

P2,622
per adult
Sigiriya: Ethical Hurulu Elephant Safari With Guide
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What to do in Anuradhapura

Stay near popular Anuradhapura attractions

Ruwanwelisaya

9.4/10 (25 reviews)
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.
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Where to stay in Anuradhapura

Find the best Anuradhapura areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.
A rustic outdoor market stall with a corrugated metal roof, a wooden bench, and a woman standing behind a counter.
Photo by Minul Tennakoon
Open Photo by Minul Tennakoon

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 Ruwanwelisaya.

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.