Best Things to do in Anuradhapura | Must-see attractions 2025

Isurumuniya

6:00 AM–6:00 PM

Pagoda

Anuradhapura

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Isurumuniya is a Buddhist temple in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, known for its intricate carvings, such as the Isurumuniya Lovers and Elephant.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations accepted for temple maintenance.

Abhayagiri Museum

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Anuradhapura

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Abhayagiri Museum in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka features artifacts from the ancient city, including pottery, sculpture, and more, linked to the 5th-century monk Fa Xian.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some guided tours may have a fee.

Gal Palama over Malwathu Oya

Open 24 hours

Bridge

Close to twin ponds

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Gal Palama, an ancient stone bridge over Malwathu Oya in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, features unique architecture and rich historical significance dating back to ancient times.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free.

Mahamevnawa Dhammachethiya Buddhist Monastery

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Anuradhapura

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Mahamevnawa Dhammachethiya Buddhist Monastery in Anuradhapura offers visitors insights into Buddhism and meditation, led by knowledgeable monks in a serene environment.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not mandatory.

Lankarama

Open 24 hours

Pagoda

Lankarama Dagoba

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Lankarama is a historic stupa built by King Valagamba in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It showcases ancient architecture and cultural significance.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations may be appreciated for maintenance.

Sandahiru Seya

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Temple

Anuradhapura

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Sandahiru Seya, a massive Buddhist stupa in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, was commissioned in 2010 and is designed to showcase appreciation for military efforts in the country.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free for entrance, though completion may lead to future ticketed events.

Wilpattu National Park

6:00 AM–6:00 PM

Park

Sri Lanka

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Wilpattu National Park in Sri Lanka is an undeveloped wildlife sanctuary known for its natural lakes and diverse leopard population.

Duration: 4-6 hours.

Paid. Adults: LKR 3,000; Children: LKR 1,500.

Bodhi-Tree Shrine II

6:00 AM–6:00 PM

Pagoda

Sri Lanka

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Bodhi-Tree Shrine II in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, is a significant sacred site featuring a revered Bodhi tree, known for its historical and cultural importance in Buddhism.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. No entry fee required.

dhamma Anuradha vipassana meditation center

Open for courses only

Pagoda

Anuradhapura

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Dhamma Anuradha Vipassana Meditation Center in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka offers courses in Vipassana meditation, focusing on mindfulness and self-discovery.

Duration: Minimum 10 days for a course.

Free for meditation courses. Contributions accepted.

Jetawanaramaya

6:00 AM–7:00 PM

Pagoda

Watawandana Rd

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Jetawanaramaya in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, is the largest stupa globally, standing at 122 meters, showcasing ancient Buddhist architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations for maintenance are appreciated.

Thuparama Temple

7:00 AM–6:00 PM

Pagoda

Anuradhapura

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Thuparama Temple, in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, is the oldest Buddhist temple built in 3rd century BC, known for its unique architecture and historical significance.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free.

sri maha bodiya

6:00 AM–6:00 PM

Pagoda

Sri Lanka

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Sri Maha Bodhi, a significant sacred fig tree in Anuradhapura, is believed to be a sapling from the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a nominal fee.

Isurumuniya Temple

Open 8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

At Royal Pleasure Gardens

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Isurumuniya Temple in Anuradhapura features ancient rock carvings, mural paintings, and serene surroundings, built during the reign of Devanampiya Tissa (307–267 BC).

Duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations for maintenance are appreciated.