Discover the Ancient Wonders of Anuradhapura
Explore Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in ancient history and cultural heritage, where sacred relics and stunning ruins await.
Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its ancient ruins and sacred Buddhist sites. As one of the oldest cities in Sri Lanka, it offers a unique glimpse into the island's rich history and culture, making it a must-visit for any traveler.
A brief summary to Anuradhapura Unesco Signage
- 8CX2+3VR, Anuradhapura, LK
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy the tranquility of the ancient sites.
- Dress modestly, as many sites are sacred, and it's respectful to cover shoulders and knees.
- Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the historical and cultural significance of the sites.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as exploring the vast area can be tiring.
- Don’t miss the sunset views from the top of the stupas for a breathtaking experience.
Getting There
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Walking
Starting from Anuradhapura railway station, exit the station and head south on Station Road. After about 500 meters, turn left onto 2nd Cross Street. Continue straight until you reach the main road, then turn right onto the Anuradhapura Main Road (A9). Walk for approximately 1.5 kilometers. You will see signs for historical sites on your left. Continue walking until you reach the area known for its archaeological sites. The Unesco Signage is located at coordinates 8.347736, 80.4021427, which is near the ancient city.
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Walking
If you are at the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, head west towards the tree-lined path leading to the main road. Walk along the path until you reach the Anuradhapura Main Road (A9). Turn left and walk for about 700 meters. The Unesco Signage will be on your right-hand side, located at coordinates 8.347736, 80.4021427.
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Cycling
If you have rented a bicycle, start from the Anuradhapura Museum located on the main road. Cycle north along the A9 for about 1.2 kilometers. Keep an eye out for the signs indicating the UNESCO sites. The Unesco Signage is located at coordinates 8.347736, 80.4021427, which is easily accessible from the road.
Discover more about Anuradhapura Unesco Signage
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ancient Lavetory Complex - පුරාණ වැසිකිලි සංකීර්ණය
0.5 km
Discover the Ancient Lavetory Complex in Anuradhapura, a unique historical landmark showcasing advanced sanitation systems of ancient Sri Lanka.
Buddhist Railing
0.6 km
Discover the serenity and historical significance of the Buddhist Railing in Anuradhapura, a must-visit for those exploring Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist heritage.
Ancient Round Well ඓතිහාසික වට පොකුණ
0.6 km
Explore the Ancient Round Well in Anuradhapura, a historical marvel revealing Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage and architectural brilliance.
King Dutugemunu Pillar දුටුගැමුණු ශිලා ස්ථම්භය
0.7 km
Explore the King Dutugemunu Pillar in Anuradhapura, a significant historical landmark reflecting Sri Lanka's rich cultural and architectural heritage.
Samuddhagiri Vihara Monastery
0.9 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Samuddhagiri Vihara Monastery, a hidden gem in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
Unidentified structure
0.9 km
Explore the mysteries of Anuradhapura's unidentified structure, a hidden gem in the heart of Sri Lanka's ancient capital filled with history.
Singha Kanuwa, සිංහ කනුව - Anuradhapura
1.0 km
Explore Singha Kanuwa, a historical gem in Anuradhapura, where Sri Lanka's rich heritage and stunning architecture await your discovery.
Pūraṇa Bhikkuṇī Upāsaya පූරණ භික්ෂුණී උපාසය
1.0 km
Explore the tranquil Pūraṇā Bhikkhuni Upāsaya, a historical Buddhist landmark in Anuradhapura, celebrating the legacy of female monks.
Royal palace of the anuradhapura kingdom
1.3 km
Explore the Royal Palace of the Anuradhapura Kingdom, a magnificent historical landmark that reveals the rich heritage of ancient Sri Lanka.
Isurumuniya clock Tower ඉසුරුමුණිය ඔරලෝසු කණුව
1.6 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of Isurumuniya Clock Tower in Anuradhapura, a must-visit landmark for every traveler.
Isurumuni Royal Temple
2.0 km
Explore Isurumuni Royal Temple in Anuradhapura, a breathtaking blend of Buddhist and Hindu heritage with stunning rock carvings and serene landscapes.
North Central Provincial Council Administrative Building Complex
2.0 km
Explore the North Central Provincial Council in Anuradhapura – a blend of modern governance and rich cultural heritage waiting to be discovered.
Main Image House
2.4 km
Explore the ancient wonders of Lankarama Dagoba in Anuradhapura, a historical landmark that reflects Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist heritage and stunning architecture.
මාස්තොට පිරිවෙන- අභයගිරිය
2.4 km
Discover the historic Ruwanwelisaya Stupa in Anuradhapura, a monumental symbol of Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage and architectural prowess.
Abayagiriya Stupa
2.7 km
Discover the enchanting Abayagiriya Stupa in Anuradhapura, a monumental testament to Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist heritage and architectural grandeur.
Unmissable attractions to see
Yathuru Pokuna 2 Jetavanaramaya- ජේතවනාරාමය යතුරු පොකුණ 2
0.1 km
Explore Yathuru Pokuna 2, a historical landmark in Anuradhapura, where ancient architecture meets serene nature, perfect for reflection and discovery.
Jetavanarama Museum
0.2 km
Explore the fascinating history of ancient Sri Lanka at the Jetavanarama Museum, where heritage and culture come alive.
Jethawanarama stone fence ( ගල් ගරාදි වැට)
0.2 km
Explore the Jethawanarama Stone Fence, an ancient architectural marvel in Anuradhapura, showcasing the rich history of Sri Lanka's Buddhist heritage.
Jethawanaramaya southern pond
0.2 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Jethawanaramaya Southern Pond in Anuradhapura, a must-visit landmark in Sri Lanka.
Jethawanarama Monastery Complex
0.3 km
Uncover the historical treasures of the Jethawanarama Monastery Complex in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka's iconic archaeological site.
Jethawanarama Uposathaghara
0.3 km
Discover the grandeur of Jethawanarama Uposathaghara, an ancient stupa that embodies Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist heritage and architectural brilliance.
Jethawanaramaya
0.5 km
Discover Jethawanaramaya, a stunning Buddhist temple in Anuradhapura, known for its towering stupa and rich cultural heritage.
Jethawanarama Pilima Geya - ජේතවනාරාමය පිළිම ගෙය
0.5 km
Explore the historical and spiritual significance of Jethawanarama Pilima Geya, a monumental Buddhist temple in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
Image House of Jethawanaramaya - ජේතවනාරාම පිළිම ගෙය
0.5 km
Experience the rich cultural heritage and spiritual tranquility at the Image House of Jethawanaramaya in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
Ruwanweli Maha Seya Viewing Point
0.5 km
Discover the spiritual heart of Sri Lanka at the breathtaking Ruwanweli Maha Seya Viewing Point, where history, culture, and nature unite.
Lovamahapaya | ලෝවාමහාපාය
0.5 km
Explore Lovamahapaya, the ancient Brazen Palace in Anuradhapura, a historical landmark rich in Sri Lanka's cultural heritage and architectural grandeur.
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
0.6 km
Discover the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage site that embodies the essence of Buddhist spirituality and Sri Lankan culture.
Thimbiri Pokuna - තිඹිරි පොකුණ
0.7 km
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of Thimbiri Pokuna, an ancient bathing pool in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka's heritage heart.
Ruwanweli Maha Seya
0.7 km
Explore the sacred Ruwanweli Maha Seya, a historical Buddhist temple in Anuradhapura, embodying Sri Lanka's rich spiritual and cultural heritage.
Maha Viharaya, Anuradhapura
0.7 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and historic significance of Maha Viharaya, a premier Buddhist temple in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
Essential places to dine
Kamu Machan
0.7 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at Kamu Machan in Anuradhapura—where tradition meets flavor in an inviting atmosphere.
Rangiri Restaurant - Anuradhapura
1.3 km
Discover authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Rangiri Restaurant in Anuradhapura - where every dish tells a story.
Rangiri Restaurant
1.3 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Rangiri Restaurant in Anuradhapura – a culinary delight for every traveler.
Sri Gayathri Cafe
1.5 km
Experience authentic vegetarian delights at Sri Gayathri Cafe in Anuradhapura – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Rasa Gedara ( The House Of Taste )
1.6 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at Rasa Gedara, where every dish is a celebration of taste and tradition in Anuradhapura.
Restaurant family
1.6 km
Enjoy delightful family dining with authentic Sri Lankan flavors in the heart of Anuradhapura's vibrant culinary scene.
Alankulama Casserole Restaurant Bank Side
1.6 km
Discover authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Alankulama Casserole Restaurant by the tranquil riverside in Anuradhapura.
Avasta resturant and bar
1.8 km
Discover authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Avasta Restaurant and Bar in Anuradhapura - where culinary tradition meets modern dining.
Thisavi Rest
1.8 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Thisavi Rest in Anuradhapura - where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
Green Way Restaurant
1.9 km
Experience the rich flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine at Green Way Restaurant in Anuradhapura – your gateway to authentic culinary delights.
Salgado Hotel and Bakery
1.9 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Salgado Hotel and Bakery in Anuradhapura - where every meal tells a story.
Chamy Restaurant Bank Town
1.9 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Chamy Restaurant in Bank Town – a must-visit dining spot for tourists seeking delightful cuisine.
Carlton
2.0 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at Carlton Restaurant in Anuradhapura – where every dish tells a story.
The Walkers Restaurant
2.1 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors at The Walkers Restaurant in Anuradhapura – where every dish tells a story.
HotPot Family-Restaurant
2.1 km
Discover the flavors of Sri Lanka at HotPot Family-Restaurant - a must-visit destination for food lovers in Anuradhapura.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bikku Gift Center
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant selection of clothing and unique gifts at Bikku Gift Center, Anuradhapura's charming shopping destination.
Multi Emporium
1.5 km
Explore Multi Emporium in Anuradhapura for all your hardware needs, where quality meets local craftsmanship.
Walk Way Fashion
1.6 km
Explore the vibrant styles of Sri Lanka at Walk Way Fashion in Anuradhapura, offering unique clothing options and a warm shopping experience.
Araliya Gift Center
1.6 km
Explore the rich craftsmanship of Sri Lanka at Araliya Gift Center, a treasure trove of unique gifts and souvenirs in Anuradhapura.
Nirmani Dress Point
1.7 km
Discover the vibrant fashion of Sri Lanka at Nirmani Dress Point, the go-to clothing store in Anuradhapura for stylish attire and accessories.
The Lover - Anuradhapura 01
1.8 km
Explore The Lover in Anuradhapura, where local craftsmanship meets modern fashion in a unique collection of accessories.
Volls
1.9 km
Discover unique fashion at Volls in Anuradhapura, blending local craftsmanship with contemporary styles for an unforgettable shopping experience.
Signature Showroom
1.9 km
Explore the finest men's clothing and shoe collection at Signature Showroom in Anuradhapura, where style meets quality.
CIB Shopping Center - Anuradhapura
2.4 km
Explore the vibrant CIB Shopping Center in Anuradhapura for trendy clothing and a unique shopping experience that reflects local culture.
G & G
2.5 km
Discover stylish apparel at G & G, Anuradhapura's go-to clothing store for fashionable finds at reasonable prices.
ASB Fashion
2.5 km
Discover the vibrant fashion scene at ASB Fashion in Anuradhapura, where style meets tradition in a premier shopping destination.
US Fashion - Anuradhapura
2.5 km
Explore the vibrant fashion scene at US Fashion in Anuradhapura, where local craftsmanship meets modern trends in a unique shopping experience.
DRESS HUB
2.5 km
Explore DRESS HUB in Anuradhapura for an exceptional selection of trendy women's clothing and dresses, perfect for every occasion.
Eiffel Complex
2.5 km
Explore the Eiffel Complex in Anuradhapura for a unique shopping experience blending clothing, cosmetics, and Italian groceries that delights every tourist.
The Factory
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant fashion scene at The Factory in Anuradhapura, where local culture meets modern style for every shopper.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Nescafé-Bar
1.2 km
Discover Nescafé-Bar in Anuradhapura: a lively spot for refreshing drinks and vibrant atmosphere amidst your travels.
New Victoria wine stores
1.6 km
Discover the tranquil charm of New Victoria Wine Stores, offering a unique selection of local and international wines in Anuradhapura.
Avasta Resort and Spa
1.7 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and culture at Avasta Resort and Spa – your ideal getaway in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
Poshana Mandiraya Ayurvedic Hospital Anuradhapura
1.8 km
Discover holistic healing at Poshana Mandiraya Ayurvedic Hospital in Anuradhapura, where ancient traditions meet modern wellness.
Hudo Lounge
1.8 km
Discover the cozy charm of Hudo Lounge in Anuradhapura, where local flavors meet a welcoming atmosphere for the perfect café experience.
Bamboo restaurant juice bar anuradhapura
1.9 km
Discover the refreshing flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine at Bamboo Restaurant, the perfect culinary escape in Anuradhapura's vibrant landscape.
Bamboo restaurant & juice bar
1.9 km
Experience the essence of Sri Lankan flavors at Bamboo Restaurant & Juice Bar in Anuradhapura, a culinary haven for food enthusiasts.
Rajasewana Resturant
2.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Anuradhapura at Rajasewana Restaurant, where local flavors meet a lively atmosphere.
Creston Park
2.8 km
Discover the flavors of Sri Lanka at Creston Park, a delightful restaurant in Anuradhapura with a diverse menu and warm hospitality.
Sooriya Wessagiri Resort
3.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of hospitality and culture at Sooriya Wessagiri Resort in Anuradhapura, offering exquisite dining and serene surroundings.
Mihira Wine Stores
3.3 km
Experience the exquisite selection of wines at Mihira Wine Stores in Anuradhapura, a perfect retreat for wine enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Danawwa Restaurant & Juice Bar
3.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine at Danawwa Restaurant & Juice Bar in Anuradhapura, where fresh ingredients meet friendly hospitality.
D night restaurant
3.5 km
D Night Restaurant in Anuradhapura offers a vibrant dining atmosphere with a diverse menu celebrating local and international flavors.
Massina Beer Garden
3.6 km
Discover the vibrant Massina Beer Garden in Anuradhapura, a perfect blend of local flavors and serene ambiance amidst lush greenery.
Hotel White House Anuradhapura
3.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Hotel White House Anuradhapura, where comfort meets exquisite dining in a historic city.
