Colombo Trip Overview
Travel to the scared city of Anuradhapura which your own private English speaking chauffeur. Anuradhapura is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, famous for its well-preserved ruins of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. It was the third capital of the Kingdom of Rajarata, following the kingdoms of Tambapanni and Upatissa Nuwara. Admire the Buddhist temples, reservoirs and carvings as your guide shares tales of the city. Finally explore the ruins of Mihintale which are closely related with the earliest introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka. This is a must visit destination in Sri lanka for any history lover.
• Hassle free hotel pick up and drop off
• Discover the temples and stupas in the ruined city of Anuradhapura
• Accompanied by an English speaking chauffeur
Additional Info
Duration: 10 to 12 hours
Starts: Colombo, Sri Lanka
Trip Category: Cultural & Theme Tours >> Cultural Tours
Explore Colombo Promoted Experiences
What to Expect When Visiting Colombo, Western Province, Sri Lanka
Travel to the scared city of Anuradhapura which your own private English speaking chauffeur. Anuradhapura is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, famous for its well-preserved ruins of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. It was the third capital of the Kingdom of Rajarata, following the kingdoms of Tambapanni and Upatissa Nuwara. Admire the Buddhist temples, reservoirs and carvings as your guide shares tales of the city. Finally explore the ruins of Mihintale which are closely related with the earliest introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka. This is a must visit destination in Sri lanka for any history lover.
• Hassle free hotel pick up and drop off
• Discover the temples and stupas in the ruined city of Anuradhapura
• Accompanied by an English speaking chauffeur
Itinerary
This is a typical itinerary for this product
Stop At: Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, Anuradhapura Sri Lanka
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is one of the most sacred places among the Buddhist devotees which was planted in 249 (2268 years ago) BC and was brought to Sri Lanka by Theri Sangamitta, the daughter of Emperor Asoka. It is said to be the only surviving branch of the original Bodhi tree and is thus famous as an object of religious worship, as well as being the oldest recorded tree in the world. The Sri Maha Bodhi itself is situated on the upper terrace above ground level (referred to as the uda maluwa) and is encircled by a ran weta (golden railing). Pilgrims are not allowed to enter the upper terrace, but worship and offerings are made at the altars situated on the lower terrace. The daily rituals of cleaning, watering the Bodhi and making offerings, are performed by bhikkhus and selected laymen.
Duration: 45 minutes
Stop At: Ruwanwelisaya, Abhayawewa Rd, Anuradhapura 50000 Sri Lanka
Ruwanweliseya was built by the great king Dutugamunu who reigned from 137BC to119BC. It is also known as the Swarnamali Maha Chaitya, is the most venerated and well-known stupa in Sri Lanka. The original stupa has been about 180 feet (55 metres) in height and had been expanded and renovated by many kings thereafter. This is one of the Solosmasthana (the 16 places of veneration) and the Atamasthana (the 8 places of veneration in the ancient sacred city of Anuradhapura). The stupa is one of the world’s tallest monuments, standing at 103 m (338 ft) and with a circumference of 290 m (951 ft). The Kaunghmudaw Pagoda in Sagaing, Myanmar is modeled after this stupa.
Duration: 45 minutes
Stop At: Isurumuniya Temple, At Royal Pleasure Gardens, Anuradhapura 50000 Sri Lanka
Isurumuniya temple was built by King Devanampiya Tissa who ruled in the ancient Sri Lankan capital of Anuradhapura. The temple was built in the 2nd century AD which is famed for its unique artworks and the hydraulic engineering. The Isurumuniya Viharaya is best known for its possession of priceless artifacts in the form of murals, paintings, stone carvings and sculptures, along with ingenious architecture. However, it is the famous ‘Isurumuniya Lovers’ sculpture that many rush to witness, as it is a timeless example of the ancient crafting styles of the 6th Century Sri Lanka.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Twin Baths (Kuttam Pokuna), Watawandana Road, Anuradhapura 50000 Sri Lanka
Kuttam Pokuna translated as twin pond is totally built with granite rock and is as large as a large tennis court. It was supposed to be a swimming pool with terraces for the Monks. This dates back to the 8th and 10th centuries. Regarding this construction, it is unbelievable to construct such a place without the aid of modern technology at that time. It is yet another example of significant hydrological achievement in engineering and architecture. Archeologists say that the ponds were built around 8th and 10th centuries.
Duration: 45 minutes
Stop At: Mihintale, Anuradhapura Sri Lanka
Mihintale is a sacred pilgrimage site home to majestic monuments including an ancient 40ft stupa and it is believed to be the meeting point between the Buddhist monk Mahinda and King Devanampiyatissa. Boasting a number of well-preserved ruins, such as stupas, caves and shrines, Mihintale serves to be an idyllic setting for the history buff to delve into the country’s unique culture and religious origins. Therefore, making it an enticing attraction.
Duration: 2 hours
