Private Day Trip to Anuradapura Ancient City from Colombo/Negombo
Anuradhapura, LK
Highlights
- Visit the oldest living human-planted tree in the world
- Explore the sacred stupa with a collection of relics
- Discover the ancient temple with 5000 years of history
- Admire the impressive ancient twin baths
- Marvel at the world's tallest stupa and its sacred relic
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Private transportation included
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Air-conditioned vehicle
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Bottled water provided
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Duration 7 to 10 hours
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Licensed Guide available
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Suitable for all fitness levels
Embark on a journey through time and immerse yourself in the ancient city of Anuradhapura. This private day trip from Kandy or Dambulla will transport you to a world of archaeological wonder and rich history. Marvel at the enormous dagobas, ancient pools, and crumbling temples that were built during Anuradhapura's thousand years of rule over Sri Lanka. Begin your exploration at the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a fig tree revered by Buddhists worldwide. Continue to the majestic Ruwanwelisaya stupa, which houses the largest collection of relics of the Buddha. Visit the Isurumuniya Temple, believed to be one of the three star gates in the world. Discover the engineering marvel of the Twin Baths (Kuttam Pokuna), and gaze in awe at the towering Jethawanaramaya Stupa. Finally, pay homage to the Samadhi Statue, a remarkable depiction of the Buddha in a meditative state. Uncover the mysteries and beauty of Anuradhapura on this captivating private day trip.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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7 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Mobile voucher
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Private Tour
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Self-guided
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Family friendly
Explore the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura with a private day trip from Kandy or Dambulla, led by an expert guide in a comfortable vehicle.
Included
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Guide -
Private transportation
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Bottled water
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In-vehicle air conditioning
Excluded
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Lunch -
Site entrance fee for all locations
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is a sacred fig tree in the Mahamewna Gardens, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It is said to be the southern branch from the historical Sri Maha Bodhi at Buddha Gaya in India under which Lord Buddha attained Enlightenment. It was planted in 288 BC, and is the oldest living human-planted tree in the world with a known planting date.Today it is one of the most sacred relics of the Buddhists in Sri Lanka and respected by Buddhists all over the world.
60 minutes
Admission Not Included
The Ruwanwelisaya is a stupa, a hemispherical structure containing relics, in Sri Lanka, considered sacred to many Buddhists all over the world.It was built by King Dutugemunu. 140 B.C., who became King of all Sri Lanka after a war in which the Chola King Ellalan, was defeated. It is also known as "Mahathupa", "Swarnamali Chaitya", "Suvarnamali Mahaceti" (in Pali) and "Rathnamali Dagaba". Two quarts or one Drona of the Gothama Buddha's relics are enshrined in the stupa, which is the largest collection of his relics anywhere.
60 minutes
Admission Not Included
This is the place where Pulasthi Rishi was live and the place of which King Ravana was born. This place has written history of about 5000 years. Further this place is one of 3 star gates in the world. The temple was built by King Devanampiya Tissa (307 BC to 267 BC) who ruled in the ancient Sri Lankan capital of Anuradhapura. After 500 children of high-caste were ordained, Isurumuniya was built for them to reside. King Kasyapa I (473-491 AD) again renovated this viharaya[citation needed] and named it as "Boupulvan, Kasubgiri Radmaha Vehera".[citation needed] This name is derived from names of his 2 daughters and his name. There is a viharaya connected to a cave and above is a cliff. A small stupa is built on it. It can be seen that the constructional work of this stupa belong to the present period. Lower down on both sides of a cleft, in a rock that appears to rise out of a pool, have been carved the figures of elephants.
30 minutes
Admission Not Included
Twin Baths (Kuttam Pokuna)
One of the best specimen of bathing tanks or pools in ancient Sri Lanka is the pair of pools known as Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds/Pools). The said pair of pools were built by the Sinhalese in the ancient kingdom of Anuradhapura. These are considered one of the significant achievements in the field of hydrological engineering and outstanding architectural and artistic creations of the ancient Sinhalese.
30 minutes
Admission Not Included
Abayagiriya Stupa
The Jetavanaramaya is a stupa, or Buddhist reliquary monument, located in the ruins of Jetavana monastery in the world heritage city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. At 122 metres (400 ft) it was the world's tallest stupa and the third tallest structure in the world when it was built by King Mahasena of Anuradhapura (273–301). He initiated the construction of the stupa following the destruction of the Mahavihara. His son Maghavanna I completed the construction of the stupa. A part of a sash or belt tied by the Buddha is believed to be the relic that is enshrined here.
30 minutes
Admission Not Included
Samadhi Buddha statue at Mahamevnāwa Park in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. The Samadhi Buddha is a famous statue situated at Mahamevnāwa Park in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. The Buddha is depicted in the position of the Dhyana Mudra, the posture of meditation associated with his first Enlightenment. This statue is 7 feet 3 inches in height and carved from dolomite marble.[citation needed] It was found in 1886 at Mahamevnāwa Park. It is similar to the Toluvila statue from the same period. It is similar to Gupta period Buddha images, it is believed that originally the image was gilded and had inlaid eyes made of precious gems. It is likely that it was one of the four statues around a sacred Bodhi tree shrine. This is the only one that has survived largely intact.
30 minutes
Admission Not Included
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Public transportation options are available nearby -
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What our experts say
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Try local rice and curry for lunch. -
Visit nearby Isurumuniya Temple.
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Bring a hat; it can be sunny.
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Plan to spend time at Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi.
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Check out local markets for souvenirs.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Immerse yourself in the rich history and architectural wonders of Sri Lanka with a private day trip to Anuradhapura Ancient City from Kandy/Dambulla. Anuradhapura is a treasure trove of South Asia's most evocative sights, boasting ancient ruins, enormous brick stupas, and majestic temples that date back thousands of years. Discover the charm and mystique of this sacred city as you explore its sprawling complex, filled with awe-inspiring structures that showcase its thousand years of rule over Sri Lanka.What to Expect?
During this day trip, you can expect to be captivated by the historical and cultural significance of Anuradhapura Ancient City. Marvel at the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree believed to be a branch from the very tree under which Lord Buddha achieved Enlightenment. Explore the Ruwanwelisaya stupa, enshrining relics of the Buddha himself. Visit the Isurumuniya Temple, where ancient legends of Pulasthi Rishi and King Ravana come alive. Admire the architectural marvel of the Twin Baths, a testament to the engineering genius of the ancient Sinhalese. And be awestruck by the towering Jethawanaramaya Stupa, once the tallest in the world.Who is this for?
This captivating tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and spiritual seekers. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this private day trip offers an enriching journey into the heart of Sri Lanka's ancient heritage. It caters to individuals who appreciate the beauty of well-preserved ruins and those seeking a deeper understanding of Buddhist traditions. Everyone from novices to seasoned travelers with a thirst for knowledge will find this experience enlightening and soul-stirring.Why Book This?
Book this private day trip to Anuradhapura Ancient City for an unparalleled adventure rich in history, spirituality, and architectural grandeur. Delve into the mysteries of the past as you witness the timeless beauty of ancient structures, each with its own unique story. This tour allows you to skip the crowded group tours and explore at your own pace. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the wonders of Anuradhapura, making this experience truly unforgettable.Good to Know
Keep in mind that the total duration of this tour is between 420 to 600 minutes, ensuring ample time to soak in the splendors of Anuradhapura Ancient City. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes and carry a bottle of water to stay hydrated throughout the day. It's advisable to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the Sri Lankan sun can be quite intense. Prepare to be amazed by the intricate details and historical significance of each attraction, and don't forget your camera to capture the stunning beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site.Reviews
Travelers who have embarked on this private day trip to Anuradhapura Ancient City have marveled at its mystical allure and historical significance. They are captivated by the well-preserved relics, immense stupas, and the serene ambiance that envelopes this sacred city. Visitors appreciate the personalized attention provided by the knowledgeable guides who share fascinating insights into the ancient ruins. Overall, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with travelers expressing their awe and gratitude for the opportunity to immerse themselves in the wonders of Anuradhapura.
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