Things to do in Anuradhapura

Activities, attractions and tours

A large brick dome structure with a smaller brick building on top, set against a partly cloudy sky.
A large white dome with a golden spire, surrounded by a low wall with colorful stripes.
A large, white stupa with a golden spire, surrounded by stone steps and a cloudy sky.
A large, domed structure with a conical roof, surrounded by a fence and a small pond reflecting the building.
Two Buddha statues in meditation poses, one yellow and one orange, with a spiral design in the background and purple flowers in the foreground.

Things to do

Minneriya Wild Adventure with Expert Driver-Guide

Minneriya Elephant Safari with Expert Local Driver-Guide

HK$187
per adult
Minneriya Elephant Safari with Expert Local Driver-Guide
Anuradhapura Old City Tours With Temples & Hidden Stories

Anuradhapura Heritage Tour - Tuk~Tuk Exploration with a Local

HK$157
per adult
Anuradhapura Heritage Tour - Tuk~Tuk Exploration with a Local
Day Tour Anuradhapura from Kandy by Lux Tours Lanka

Day Tour Anuradhapura from Kandy by Lux Tours Lanka

HK$837
per traveller
Day Tour Anuradhapura from Kandy by Lux Tours Lanka
Anuradhapura Private Ancient City Day Tour

Anuradhapura Private Ancient City Day Tour

HK$216
per adult
Anuradhapura Private Ancient City Day Tour
Anuradhapura ancient city

Private City Day Tour in Anuradhapura

HK$235
per adult
Private City Day Tour in Anuradhapura
Picture 1 for Activity Polonnaruwa Sight Seeing Tour and Minneriya Elephant Safari

Polonnaruwa Sight Seeing Tour and Minneriya Elephant Safari

HK$934
per adult
Polonnaruwa Sight Seeing Tour and Minneriya Elephant Safari
Jaya sri maha Bodhi tree

One Day Tour - Sacred city of Anuradhapura & Sacred city of Mihintale. (Sunset)

HK$392
per adult
One Day Tour - Sacred city of Anuradhapura & Sacred city of Mihintale. (Sunset)
Minneriya: Full-Day 4x4 Safari, Secret Trails & Jungle Lunch

Minneriya National Park: Full Day - Half Day Safari

HK$631
per adult
Minneriya National Park: Full Day - Half Day Safari
Minneriya Safari: Morning Birds or Afternoon Herds

Minneriya Safari: Morning Birds or Afternoon Herds

HK$631
per adult
Minneriya Safari: Morning Birds or Afternoon Herds
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Most popular experiences in Anuradhapura

Tours & day trips

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Anuradhapura Ancient City Small Group Tour

Anuradhapura Ancient City Small Group Tour

Activity duration is 4 hours and 30 minutes
Free cancellation available
Price is HK$157 per adult
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Food, drink & nightlife

See all 12 activities
Hands-On Cooking Class in Anuradhapura: Cook Like a Local

Hands-On Cooking Class in Anuradhapura: Cook Like a Local

Activity duration is 3 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is HK$251 per adult
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Spa & wellness

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Sigiriya: Anuradhapura Guided Day Trip

Sigiriya: Anuradhapura Guided Day Trip

10.0 out of 10 with 1 review
Free cancellation available
Price is HK$1,019 per traveller*
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Cruises & boat tours

See all 3 activities
Anuradhapura Ancient City Small Group Tour

Anuradhapura Ancient City Small Group Tour

Activity duration is 4 hours and 30 minutes
Free cancellation available
Price is HK$157 per adult
Anuradhapura Ancient City Small Group TourOpens in new tab

What to do in Anuradhapura

Stay near popular Anuradhapura attractions

Ruwanwelisaya

9.4/10 (25 reviews)
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.
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Where to stay in Anuradhapura

Find the best Anuradhapura areas for the activities you enjoy most.
A rustic outdoor market stall with a corrugated metal roof, a wooden bench, and a woman standing behind a counter.
Photo by Minul Tennakoon
Open Photo by Minul Tennakoon

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.

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.