Things to do in Anuradhapura

Activities, attractions and tours

Stupa with exposed red bricks. #stupa #dagoba #Abhayagiri #Anuradhapura #SriLanka
Stupa with exposed red bricks. #stupa #dagoba #Abhayagiri #Anuradhapura #SriLanka
Jaw dropping ... how they built this almost perfect half sphere one brick at a time? #stupa #Ruwanwelisaya #Anuradhapura #SriLanka
A city full of ancient Buddhist ruins
One of the stupas in Anuradhapura
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What to do in Anuradhapura

Popular places to visit

Jaw dropping ... how they built this almost perfect half sphere one brick at a time? #stupa #Ruwanwelisaya #Anuradhapura #SriLanka

Ruwanwelisaya

You can find out about the history of Anuradhapura when you stop by Ruwanwelisaya. You can seek out the cycling trails while in the area.

Ruwanwelisaya

Sri Maha Bodhi

Sri Maha Bodhi is just one of the places to see in Anuradhapura, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? You can seek out the cycling trails while in the area.

Sri Maha Bodhi

Nuwara Wewa

Learn about the local history of Anuradhapura when you take a trip to Nuwara Wewa. You can seek out the cycling trails while in the area.

Nuwara Wewa

Thuparamaya

You can find out about the history of Anuradhapura with a stop at Thuparamaya. You can seek out the cycling trails while in the area.

Thuparamaya

Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum

You can study the exhibits at Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum, a museum with a storied past, during your travels to Anuradhapura. You can seek out the cycling trails while in the area.

Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum

Mirisawetiya Stupa

Learn about the local history of Anuradhapura when you take a trip to Mirisawetiya Stupa. You can seek out the cycling trails while in the area.

Mirisawetiya Stupa

Abhayagiri Dagoba

Learn about the local history of Anuradhapura when you spend time at Abhayagiri Dagoba. You can seek out the cycling trails while in the area.

Abhayagiri Dagoba

Jetavanaramaya

Find out about the history of Anuradhapura when you spend time at Jetavanaramaya. You can seek out the cycling trails while in the area.

Jetavanaramaya

Isurumuniya Vihara

Learn about the local history of Anuradhapura with a stop at Isurumuniya Vihara. You can seek out the cycling trails while in the area.

Isurumuniya Vihara

Areas of Anuradhapura

At the end of our day at Anuradhapura, we kept walking to our hotel. On the way, we saw this monkey was eating some fruits. This creature is endemic to Sri Lanka. Furthermore, it presents all over the Island. They live as groups and kind of the time they become too aggressive. So, if you capturing them when they are too close to you, keep it in your mind to switch off the flasher.

Wijayapura

While there might not be top attractions in Wijayapura, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Nuwara Wewa and Mirisawetiya Stupa.

Wijayapura

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 neighbourhoods, New Town is 3 kilometres away from downtown, while Wijayapura is 2 kilometres away from the city centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Anuradhapura with kids?
Whether you're travelling 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 neighbourhoods, 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.