Anuradhapura is a historically famed city for being the ancient capital of Sri Lanka. There are many attractions to visit in Anuradhapura, many of which were built by the brave kings who ruled the country many centuries ago. Just a few of these are Ruwanweli Maha Seya, Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, Abhayagiri Stupa, Jetavanaramaya, Mihintale, Tissa Wewa and Kala Wewa.
Anuradhapura is an ancient city which is home to some of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka. These include Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi – a branch from the Sri Maha Bodhi in India, under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, Ruwanweli Maha Seya – contains the largest collection of relics of the Buddha, Mihintale – location of the birth of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, Thuparamaya – the first Buddhist temple in the country, Jetavanaramaya – one of the tallest stupas in the ancient world and many more venerated sites.In addition to being home to a large number of sacred and historical structures, Anuradhapura is also a city which bears evidence of the highly talented engineers of ancient times, who were responsible for the large irrigation tanks which are used to supply water to the city even today. Some of the large tanks which were built by various kings of ancient Sri Lanka are Tissa Wewa, Kala Wewa, Nuwara Wewa, Basawakkulama Wewa, Nachchaduwa Wewa and Yodha Ela.
Anuradhapura is a city where people tend to get wrapped up with its many sacred and historical attractions that they feel like coming back over and over again.
Abhayagiri Stupa
Abhayagiri Stupa is one of the most important Buddhist stupas situated in Anuradhapura. The stupa is part of the Abhayagiri Monastery which is a major site for Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism. The stupa was built by King Walagamba during his second reign in the kingdom of Anuradhapura from 89 to 77 BC. Abhayagiri Stupa belongs to the “Atamasthana” of Anuradhapura.
King Walagamba was defeated by seven Tamil chiefs who landed at Mahatittha with a great army. King Walgamba asked a young Brahmin named Tiya to fight against them. The latter accepted the challenge but was ultimately defeated by them. This made the King flee from the city which was seen by a Jain monk named ‘Giri’ who then exclaimed, “The great black Sinhalese is fleeing”. King Walagamba made a pledge to himself that he would build a vihara there if he ever came back as king.Walagamba, also known as “Wattagamini Abhaya”, came back to Anuradhapura in 89 BC to fight the last Tamil king Bhathiya, after fourteen years of hiding in the mountain region. He defeated the latter and built his kingdom yet again in Anuradhapura. As promised to himself, the king built the Abhayagiri Stupa which is regarded as an important religious site by Buddhists in Sri Lanka.
Sandahiru Seya
Sandahiru Seya is a new stupa which is situated along Dakunu Dagoba Road in Anuradhapura. The stupa was commissioned by the then President Mahinda Rajapakse in 2010. It is designed to reach 85 m height, surpassing the current heights of Jetavanaramaya and Abhayagiriya, but not their original heights back in the day. Sandahiru Seya is dedicated for all of the armed forces who sacrificed their lives to the civil war which continued for almost three decades.
Rathna Prasada
Rathna Prasada is situated at the Abhayagiri complex in the sacred city of Anuradhapura. It is the chapter house of the Abhayagiri monastery. Rathna Prasada or “Jewel Palace”, was built by King Kavan Tissa during his reign from 192 AD to 194 AD. It was built to compete with the Lovamahapaya which belongs to the Maha viharaya monastery. Although only the ruins of Rathna Prasada remains, it is believed to have been a large seven-storied building once upon a time. Its monolithic pillars bear evidence of this. The guard stone or “muragala” at Rathna Prasada is renowned as one of the finest of its kind in Anuradhapura.
Ruwanweli Maha Seya
Ruwanweli Maha Seya is a prominent Buddhist stupa situated in the ancient historic city of Anuradhapura. It was built by King Dutugemunu in 2nd century BC. It is regarded as a highly sacred and important religious site by Buddhists from around the world. Ruwanweli Maha Seya is also known by the names of “Swarnamali Chaitya”, “Rathnamali Chaitya” and “Mahathupa”. It belongs to the “Atamasthana” of Anuradhapura. It stands along with the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, as one of the oldest and most sacred sites for Buddhists.
Mohideen Jumma Masjid
Mohideen Jumma Masjid is situated in Anuradhapura. It is a popular mosque in the area. The mosque conducts congregation prayers for Muslims of the surrounding area, every Friday of the week. Many locals from nearby gather at the mosque to observe prayers.
Padalanchana Chethiya
Padalanchana Chethiya is a small stupa which is situated along Thuparama Mawatha in Anuradhapura. It is said to have been built by King Lagnatisa during his reign from 119 BC to 109 BC. The stupa has been built covering the footprint of Lord Buddha. According to the great chronicles, Buddha has set foot at this location as risen into air following his third visit to the island. The stupa was later restored. At present it stands on a circular platform.
Pothanegama Catholic Church
Pothanegama Catholic Church is situated along the Puttalam – Anuradhapura – Trincomalee Highway in Anuradhapura. It is a small and beautiful church which is popular among locals in the area. Many devotees attend the weekly masses held at this church. Pothanegama Catholic Church also hosts annual feasts for its devotees.
Ras Vehera Buddha Statue
Ras Vehera Buddha Statue is a large Buddha statue which is situated close to the famous Aukana Buddha Statue in the North Central province of Sri Lanka. The statue is also known as Sesseruwa. The height of the statue is about 12 – 13 m. The statue bears signs of being incomplete. The final touches have not been applied to the robe of the Buddha. The pedestal on which the Buddha is standing has not been elaborately carved and one ear also remains incomplete. The Ras Vehera Buddha Statue depicts the “Abhaya Mudra” or “freedom from fear”.
Ruwanweli Maha Seya
Ruwanweli Maha Seya is a prominent Buddhist stupa situated in the ancient historic city of Anuradhapura. It was built by King Dutugemunu in 2nd century BC. It is regarded as a highly sacred and important religious site by Buddhists from around the world. Ruwanweli Maha Seya is also known by the names of “Swarnamali Chaitya”, “Rathnamali Chaitya” and “Mahathupa”. It belongs to the “Atamasthana” of Anuradhapura. It stands along with the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, as one of the oldest and most sacred sites for Buddhists.
Ruwanweli Maha Seya is believed to contain the largest collection of relics (two quarts) of the Buddha, from all over the world. Being one of the greatest architectural structures of the era and even up to date, the stupa resembles a bubble of milk. A massive white structure, Ruwanweli Maha Seya is designed according to the teachings of Lord Buddha. Its massive structure resembles the Four Noble Truths whereas the rings represent the Noble Eightfold Path. The pinnacle at the top of the stupa, made of crystal, represents the ultimate goal of Buddhism which is enlightenment. Ruwanweli Maha Seya is one of the world’s tallest ancient structures standing at a height of approximately 103 m and with a circumference of 290 m. Consequently it stands among the top in the list largest stupa in Sri Lanka. However, its initial height was 55 m prior to being renovated quite a few times in history.
Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum
Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum is situated along Thuparama Mawatha in Anuradhapura. It is one of the oldest museums of the area and is located in the old Kachcheri building situated between Ruwanweli Maha Seya and Lovamahapaya. There are many relics displayed at the museum which includes Buddha statues, coins, jewelleries etc. Two important displays at the museum are a model of the Vatadage found in Thuparama and a relic chamber found at the Kantaka Chethiya in Mihintale.
Samadhi Buddha Statue
Samadhi Buddha Statue is situated at Mahamevnawa Gardens in Anuradhapura. The statue depicts Lord Buddha in the “Dhyana Mudra” which is the seated position of meditation. Found in 1886, the Samadhi Buddha Statue is 7 feet 3 inches in height. It is built from dolomite marble while being similar in many ways to the Toluvila statue which also belongs to the same era. The statue dates back to around 4th-6th century. The Samadhi Buddha Statue is regarded as one of the finest Buddha statues in Sri Lanka.
Sangamitta Stupa
Sangamitta Stupa is a small stupa which is situated to the east of Thuparamaya, along Thuparama Mawatha in Anuradhapura. Sangamitta Theri, daughter of Great Indian Emperor Ashoka, came to Sri Lanka in 249 BC carrying the southern branch of the Sri Maha Bodhi in India. Sangamitta Theri along with Emperor Ashoka’s son, Mahinda Thero, lived in Sri Lanka to help king Devanampiyatissa to establish Buddhism in the country. The ashes of Sangamitta Theri are believed to have been enshrined to the east of Thuparamaya by King Uttiya which is where the Sangamitta Stupa is located.
Mihintale
Mihintale is a mountain peak with a religious significance in Mihintale, near Anuradhapura. The place bears historic and religious importance as it was the location of the birth of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Arahath Mahinda Thero met King Devanampiyatissa and preached Buddhism on a Poson poya day at this location. Buddhists from all parts of the country gather at this location every Poson poya day to observe religious rites. The location has several religious monuments and structures; The Hospital Ruins, Kantaka Chethiya, The Alms Hall, Ambasthala Dagaba and Buddha Statue, The Cave of Arahat Mahinda, Maha Stupa, Aradhana Gala , Naga Pokuna, Kaludiya Pokuna and Sinha Pokuna.
Anuradhapura Folk Museum
Anuradhapura Folk Museum is situated along Thuparama Mawatha in Anuradhapura. The museum was established on August 22, 1971 and is located close to the Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum. Anuradhapura Folk Museum serves the purpose of exhibiting objects used by the folk community of Sri Lanka. Hence the museum displays objects such as kitchen utensils, medical equipment, musical instruments and various tools used for cultivation, all of which reflects the folk lifestyle in rural areas of the country.
Basawakkulama Wewa
Basawakkulama Wewa, also known as Abhaya Wewa, is a reservoir which is situated in Anuradhapura. It was built by the great king of Anuradhapura, Pandukabhaya during his reign from 437-367 BC. The purpose of building Basawakkulama Wewa was to provide ample water to Anuradhapura. The tank also gets the name “Abhayavapi” in memory of one of the king’s uncles named Abhaya, who ruled the country in a previous term. Basawakkulama Wewa is among the largest reservoirs in Anuradhapura. At present, the tank carries 174 hectares of water at the surface and has not yet failed to supply water to Anuradhapura.
St. Anthony’s Church
St. Anthony’s Church is a Catholic church which is situated along the Kandy – Jaffna Highway in Mihintale. It is a church which is popular among Catholics in Mhintale and all around Anuradhapura. This beautiful church is located in a serene environment from where the Mihintale temple can also be seen clearly.
Thanthirimale Raja Maha Viharaya
Thanthirimale Raja Maha Viharaya is an ancient Buddhist temple which is situated in the village of Thanthirimale in North Central province of Sri Lanka. The temple and the village of Thanthirimale have a historic importance. It is believed that Sangamitta Theri, who brought the sapling from Sri Maha Bodhi India, stopped at this location on her way to Anuradhapura. It is believed that one branch that separately grew from this pot was planted at that Thanthirimale village to remember this historic and sacred incident. This incident has led some to believe that this may be the first Sri Maha Bhodi plant in the country.
Mirisawetiya Stupa
Mirisawetiya Stupa is situated along Old Puttalam Road in Anuradhapura. It was built by King Dutugemunu during his reign from 161 BC to 137 BC. The initial structure of Mirisawetiya, which is believed to be one of the most ancient dagabas in Sri Lanka, is not there anymore. It was restored in the 20th century with a height of 59 m and a diameter of 141 m. According to a British scholar who examined Mirisawetiya in the late 19th century, the height of the original stupa was 51 m and its diameter was 61 m. Prior to restoration, the Mirisawetiya had one of the finest vahalkadas in ancient Sri Lankan history. Mirisawetiya Stupa belongs to the “Atamasthana” of Anuradhapura.There are several stories which explains how the name “Mirisawetiya” was given to this stupa. The most popular of stories is the one which says that King Dutugemunu forgot to serve a food made of chilli (miris) for the Buddhist priests, before he consumed it. He named this stupa “Mirisawetiya” as a token of apology for the priests.
Isurumuniya Museum
Isurumuniya Museum is an archaeological museum which is situated within the Isurumuniya Temple Complex in Anuradhapura. It was established at the site in 1984. The museum has several exhibits found at the temple including the most famed Gupta style carving “Isurumuniya Pem Yuwala” or “Isurumuniya Lovers” and sculpture of the royal family. Isurumuniya Museum is currently maintained by the Department of Archaeology.
Mayura Pirivena
Mayura Pirivena is an ancient Buddhist monastery which is situated in Anuradhapura. It is located south-west of the sacred site of Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. The monastery is said to have been built by King Buddhadasa during his reign from 340 AD to 368 AD. The monastery is believed to have been renovated a few times in history by kings Dhatusena and Mahanaga. The Indian monk Buddhaghosha Thero is believed to have lived at this location during his stay in Sri Lanka. Ruins of the building can be seen up to this day.
Kala Wewa
Kala Wewa is one of the greatest irrigation tanks of ancient Sri Lanka and is situated in Kekirawa in North-central Sri Lanka. The tank was built by King Datusena during his reign in the kingdom of Anuradhapura in 460 AD. After the completion of Kala Wewa, it is said that the king built another tank called Balalu Wewa and joined the two making it one of the largest tanks in Sri Lankan history. Due to this reason, the tank is sometimes called Kala Balalu Wewa. The famous Aukana Buddha Statue, which was also built by King Datusena, stands close to Kala Wewa.
Atamasthana
After introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka by Mahinda Thero in 250 BC Emperor Asoka in India sent his daughter Theri Sanghamitta to the island with a branch of the Sacred Bodhi obtained from the main stem of the bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya under which Buddha attained enlightenment. King Devanampiyatissa received this sapling and planted it at the present site in Mahameghavana Garden in 249 BC. Taking this information to account today (in 2023) the Sri Maha Bodhi tree is exactly 2273 years old. Thus this tree is considered the oldest living tree in world in the recorded history.According to Mahavamsa, on the Buddha’s 3rd visit to the island, he finally went to Anuradhapura where the Meghawana would be established and alighted on the spot where the Sacred Bo Tree would be planted later and enjoyed the bliss of the Samadhi meditation with his 500 disciples. Thus this site lies on the 9th position of Solosmasthana, The Sixteen Buddhist Sacred Sites hollowed by Buddha and also one of Atamasthana, one of the eight most sacred holy sites of Anuradhapura.
Atamasthana in Anuradhapura
- Sri Maha Bodhi
- Ruwanweliseya
- Thuparamaya
- Lovamahapaya
- Abhayagiriya
- Jetavanaramaya
- Mirisavetiya
- Lankaramaya
- Sri Maha Bodhi
After introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka by Mahinda Thero in 250 BC Emperor Asoka in India sent his daughter Theri Sanghamitta to the island with a branch of the Sacred Bodhi obtained from the main stem of the bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya under which Buddha attained enlightenment. King Devanampiyatissa received this sapling and planted it at the present site in Mahameghavana Garden in 249 BC. Taking this information to account today (in 2023) the Sri Maha Bodhi tree is exactly 2273 years old. Thus this tree is considered the oldest living tree in world in the recorded history.
According to Mahavamsa, on the Buddha’s 3rd visit to the island, he finally went to Anuradhapura where the Meghawana would be established and alighted on the spot where the Sacred Bo Tree would be planted later and enjoyed the bliss of the Samadhi meditation with his 500 disciples. Thus this site lies on the 9th position of Solosmasthana, The Sixteen Buddhist Sacred Sites hollowed by Buddha and also one of Atamasthana, one of the eight most sacred holy sites of Anuradhapura.
02.Ruwanweli maha Seya
Ruwanweli maha Seya (Ruwanweliseya) is one of the most venerated Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka built by the great king Dutugamunu who reigned from 137BC to 119BC from Anuradhapura. Ruwanweli Maha Seya is not the largest neither the oldest of the stupas erected in Anuradhapura, but this is the most venerated by the Buddhists surpassing all other great stupas. It has the most imposing collection of relics of Gautama Buddha than was ever enshrined in any other dagaba in the island.According to Mahavamsa, on the Buddha’s 3rd visit to the island, he finally went to Anuradhapura where the Meghawana would be established and alighted on the spot where the Sacred Bo Tree would be planted and also visited site that the Great Thupa, Ruwanweli Seya would be established and meditated at the site. Thus this site lies on the 10th position of Solosmasthana, the Sixteen Buddhist Sacred Sites hollowed by Buddha and also one of Atamasthana, one of the eight most sacred holy sites of Anuradhapura
03. Thuparamaya
This is the first stupa to be built in the country after the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka. Built in the time of king Devamnampiyatissa (250BC – 210BC) this was a stupa as well as an Aramic complex (monastery). “As Contemporary with Asoka ” (says Mr. Fergusson, in his History of Indian and Eastern Architecture ), “it belongs to the most interesting period of Buddhist history, and is older, or, at least, as old as anything now existing on the continent of India” (Smither and Wikramagamage, 1993).Today ruins of this complex covers nearly 3 ½ acres. The stupa was built on the instructions of Mahinda Thero who brought Buddhism to the island to enshrine the right collar-bone of Lord Buddha.
04. Lovamahapaya – The Great Copper Roofed Mansion
The king Devamnampiyatissa, the first Buddhist king of the country build a chapter house in this location on the instructions Mahinda Thero who brought Buddhism to the country. A century later king Dutugamunu (161-131 BC) built a massive structure of which the remains you see today.
King Dutugemunu was told of a record that was said to have been made by king Devanampiyatissa, based on a prophecy of the Great Mahinda Thero. He located a vase depostited in the royal treasury with a inscribed golden plate inside. It spoke of the prophecy that after after one hundred and forty years, a king named Dutta Gamini, son of king Kavan Tissa who will contract such and such edifices in such and such manner.
The king found that Loha Prasada and Swarnamali Chethiya (Ruwanweli Seya) been specially mentioned in the inscription. He informed the monks that he would erect an excellent storied monastery and requested them to procure for him the plan of a palace of the devas. The plan was supplied immediately and begun under the supervision of eminent architects. It was a quadrilateral palace, being two hundred feet long on each of its sides and the same in height. There were nine stories. In each of them were one hundred windows and a total of 1000 rooms. A special hall was built in the centre of the palace; and it was said to have been supported on golden pillars. In the centre of this hall there was a beautiful ivory throne, on one side of which there was the emblem of the sun in gold; on another, the moon in silver and stars in pearls. Above the throne the imperial canopy glittered. The roof of this magnificent palace was covered with brazen tiles thus it was called the Loha Maha Prasadaya, “great brazen palace”. It is said that the value attached to the building was three hundred million gold pieces.
All the stories were furnished with couches, chairs and other necessaries of great value. Even the basins kept at the entrance, for washing the hands and feet of monks, were made of gold. The first floor was occupied by the monks who had not achieved any state of sanctification or the highest attainments; the second by those who had mastered the Tripitaka, the third by those who had attained Sotapatti, the first stage of sanctification ; the fourth by those who had attained Sakadagami, the second state of sanctification; the fifth by those monks who had attained Anagami, the third state of sanctification; and the remaining four stories were occupied by the Arahats, in other words, those who had attained the highest state of sanctification. Although this description may be a little exaggerated, this would have been a very impressive building at that time looking at what remains today.
05. Abhayagiri Monastery
Abhayagiri Monastery is situated on the ancient city of Anuradhapura and is credited to king Vattagamini Abaya popularly known as king Walagamba ( 103 BC, 89-77 BC) Proof has been found that a Jain temple has existed on this land in the 5th century BC during the rule of King Pandukabaya (437-367 BC).In 104 BC, the youngest son of king Saddhatissa (137-119 BC), prince Vattagamini Abaya came to the throne in Anuradhapura. Soon after a Tamil invasion took place. The new king unable to withstand the attack, was retreating from the capital. At this time a Jain monk was residing in the area which Abhayagiri stands today. When the king was passing this area the Jain monk named “Geri” shouted insultingly “Lo the great black Sinhala king is in flight”.
06.Jethawanaramaya of Anuradhapura Kingdom
During the reign of king Gothabhaya (253-266 AC) a disagreement took place between the monks of Maha Vihara Monastery and the Abhayagiri Monastery regarding a Vetulya doctrine. The king Gotabhaya took the side of the Maha Vihara and banished 60 monks who had turned in the Vetulya doctrine from Abhayagiri Monastery. One of the disciples of the banished monks called Sangamitta thero decided to avenge the bikkus of Maha Viharaya. He came back to Sri Lanka and gained the favour of king Gotabhaya (253-266 AC) and was entrusted to teach his two sons prince Mahasena and Prince Jetthatissa. After their father’s death, the elder son prince Jettatissa who was a supporter of the Mahavihara monks became the king and reigned for 10 years (266-276 AC).
In 276 Mahasena (276-303) succeeded to the throne and he persuaded the king that the Mahaviharians laxed discipline and the monks of Abhayagiri vihara preached the true doctrine of the Buddha. He also persuaded the king to order prohibition of giving arms to the Mahaviharians and they were forced to retreat to the hills and Rohana.Then Sangamittha thero persuaded the king to razor the Maha Vihara buildings and use the materials to build up a new rival institute within the boundaries of Maha Vihara itself. This became to known as the Jethawanaramaya (Jethawana Viharaya).
07. Anuradhapura Mirisawetiya Dagaba
Mirisawetiya Dagaba has been built by King Dutugamunu (161-137 BC) and this belongs to Mahavihara Complex. King Dutugamunu is the great king who defeated the Tamil invaders who ruled the country for 30 years and brought the country under one ruler.On the seventh day of the re-establishment of Anuradhapura as the Capital of Lanka after defeating Elara, the Indian invader who ruled Anuradhapura for 55 years, the King proceeded to the Tissa Wewa followed by a state retinue to celebrate an aquatic festival maintaining a custom observed by his predecessors.Kings attire and his imperial sceptre (kunta) which had a scared relic of Buddha inside, was kept at a place close the Tissa Wewa. When he returned to his surprise the sceptre was it was stuck to the ground and no one could retrieve it. So the king seeing this miracle decided to erect a stupa on that spot to enshrine the sceptre itself.The stupa and the surrounding buildings were completed in 3 years and he held a inauguration ceremony for thousands of monks who had assembled from Sri Lanka as well as from India. This festival was held for 7 continuous days. Misriweti Stupa is the first of the great stupas to be erected.
08.Lankaramaya in Anuradhapura Kingdom
Lankaramaya is a very ancient monastery of the ancient capital of Anuradhapura. Of the history of the monastery, next to nothing appears to be known, and that little is very indefinite. Captain Chapman, in a paper published in the Journal of the Royal Asiatic Society for 1851-2, states that “it was erected by king Abha Sen, or Tissa, whose reign commenced A.D. 231” ; and Major Forbes, in his work entitled Eleven years in Ceylon, says it “was erected in the reign of Mahasen, between A.D. 276 and 303”. No reliance can, however, be placed on either of these statements, as, besides being at variance, they are unsupported by evidence of their accuracy (Smither and Wikramagamage, 1993).According Anuradha Seneviratna, this stupa has been built on the 1st century BC by King Vattagamini Abaya (Walagamba). The ancient name of this temple is “Silasobbha Khandaka Cetiya”. After the defeat by the Tamil invaders on the same year he came to the throne king Walagamba (103 BC) has hidden in a place called “Silasobbha Khandaka” and after defeating the Tamils and regaining the throne he has built this stupa by the same name (Seneviratna,1994).
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
Aukana Buddha Statue
Aukana Buddha Statue is a standing Buddha statue which is situated in the village of Aukana in Kekirawa in North Central Sri Lanka. The statue stands at a height of over 12 m. Aukana Buddha Statue, which was built in the 5th century during the reign of King Datusena, is carved out of a colossal granite rock face. It is one of the finest standing statues constructed in the country which has made it a popular tourist attraction. Another popular attraction, Kala Wewa which was also built by King Datusena, is situated close by.
Isurumuniya Temple
Isurumuniya Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple which is situated in the historic city of Anuradhapura. It was built by King Devanampiyatissa during his reign from 307 BC to 267 BC. The temple is situated adjacent to the Tissa Wewa which was also built during his reign. Isurumuniya is popular for rock carvings of special interest, namely the famed Isurumuniya Lovers, Man with a Horse, Elephant Pond and The Royal Family. Isurumuniya is believed to be the birth place of King Ravana and the place where the mythical Pulasthi Rishi used to live.
The 6th century Gupta style carving of “Isurumuniya Lovers” or “Isurumuniya Pem Yuwala”, are believed to be of King Dutugemunu’s son Saliya and his maiden of low caste, Ashokamala. The prince is believed to have given up the throne for her.The 8th century Gupta style carving of the Royal Family consists of five humans carved on a granite plate. The figure at the center is believed to be of King Dutugemunu.The 7th century Pallawa style Elephant Pond carving consists of four elephants carved on granite. The carving depicts the elephants bathing.The Man with a Horse sculpture depicts a dignified, well-clad man along with the head of a horse beside him. Several critics have come forward with various theories with regard to the sculpture. Renowned Archaeologist Professor Senarath Paranavitana has put forward the theory of the man being ‘Parjanya’, God of Rain and the horse ‘Agni’ (fire).
Mahamevnawa Gardens
Mahamevnawa Gardens is an ancient park which is situated in the sacred city of Anuradhapura. It was created by King Mutasiva during his reign from 367 – 307 BC. The king is renowned in Sri Lankan history as the first king who structured a park in the island. King Mutasiva is the son of King Pandukabhaya, who is the founder of the city of Anuradhapura, and father of King Devanampiyatissa. Mahamevnawa is also known as “Mahamegha” which literally translates to “heavy rainfall”. There was unusually heavy rainfall at the auspicious time the park was being started which aptly named it this way. Many sacred religious sites are located at the gardens including the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, Ruwanweli Maha Seya, Thuparamaya and the Samadhi Buddha Statue.
Kantaka Chethiya
Kantaka Chethiya is a Buddhist temple which is situated in Mihintale. It was a mound of Earth and debris when it was discovered prior to its reconstruction to the current status in the 1930’s. The history and construction of the initial stupa is yet to be uncovered. However, it is believed that King Lagnatissa (119-109 BC) has built a stone mantel built for the Kantaka Chethiya. At present the stupa stands at a height of 12 m with a diameter of 130 m. Kantaka Chethiya is most famed for being one of the best preserved vahalkadas which is seen up to date. Its vahalkada is intricately detailed with special architectural features which are praised even today. The southern vahalkada is the most well preserved vahalakadas out of the four. It consists of a band of “Ghana” or “Bahirawa” (mythical dwarfs) figures in various peculiar positions.
Lovamahapaya
Lovamahapaya is an ancient structure which is situated between Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi and Ruwanweli Maha Seya in Anuradhapura. Also known as “Lohaprasadaya”, it is aptly named due to its roof which consists of bronze (loha) tiles. This ancient structure consists of many rows of stone pillars. A colossal nine-storied monastic structure built by King Dutugemunu during the 2nd century BC, once existed at this location. Lovamahapaya belongs to the “Atamasthana” of Anuradhapura. It is believed that Lovamahapaya was adorned with many precious stones and corals. The building used to house a refectory, chapter house and assembly hall. The structure is believed to have had 40 rows of stone pillars; each row with 40 pillars which accounted to 1600 stone pillars in total. Most of the stone pillars still exist at the location. The initial building of “Lovamahapaya” was destructed during the reign of King Saddhatissa.
Maha Stupa
Maha Stupa is a large Buddhist temple which is situated in Mihintale. It is also known as “Maha Seya”. The stupa which is situated on the summit of the hill, is said to have been built by King Mahadathika Mahanaga during his reign from 7-19 AD. Maha Stupa stands at a height of 13 m with a base diameter of 41 m. Approximately 110 steps cut into the rock of the hill leads to Maha Stupa which is known to be the largest stupa on the summit of Mihintale. The stupa is visible to pilgrims from a fair distance. It has been completely restored after being in a deteriorated state.
Vijayaramaya
Vijayaramaya is an ancient Buddhist monastic complex which is situated in Anuradhapura. The complex which is sprawled in 23 acres of land, has been declared as an archaeological site by the Government of Sri Lanka. It was a largely ignored ancient site which was not given recognition until recent. Due to its ignorance, many of the ruins at the complex have been taken away by thieves. Many carvings of various goddesses have been identified at the location. It is believed to be a pre-Buddhist building which has been converted into a Buddhist monastery. The popular “Gal Paalama” or “Stone Bridge” lies close to the monastery.
Nakha Vehera
Nakha Vehera ( Naka Vehera) of Anuradhapura is one of the hidden gems which is rarely visited in Anuradhapura.There are 4 known square shaped stupa’s in Sri Lanka. The most popular is the Sathmahal Prasadaya of Polonnaruwa kingdom built during 11th -13th century. The rest of the 3 stupas can be found in the ancient Anuradhapura kingdom which are rarely visited by the pilgrims. One of these stupa’s is Nakha Vehera. The other 2 belongs to the Abhayagiriya Monastic Complex. One of them is known as Indikatu Seya (aka Prasada Stupa). The other lies west of Eth Pokuna on the western border of the Abhayagiri Monastery.There is no much information on its origin or the name of Nakha-Vehera. Small clay Dagoba shaped votive objects have been discovered inside the structure indicating that this has been a dagoba similar to the Sathmahal Prasada in Polonnaruwa. The image house of the viharaya is found facing the east. Some sections of an ancient Buddha statue and a seat is still seen at the site (Seneviratna, 1994).
According to Mahawamsa, king Mahasena (276-303) has caused to build a stupa East of the Anuradhapura city. Nakha Vehera is the only stupa discovered in this area thus some believe Nakha Vehera had been built by king Mahasena (Wikramagamage, 2004).Based on studies of the ruins, Nakha Vehera is believed be belonging to the late late Anuradhapura era ( 7-10th centuries). It belongs to the Mahayana tradition like all other square stupas. The base is about 9×9 meters and ruins of an image house and some other buildings has been discovered in the close vicinity of this stupa.The stupa lies 200 meters away from the Watawandana Road and a gravel road from the sign board can be barely seen. This stupa lies almost in line with the east gate used to be the ancient road to ·Mihintale. This routes is now mostly covered by fields and gardens (Devendra, 1952). Once you turn towards the side road directed by the board, the road almost disappears due to disuse and 1-2 feet tall shrubs has taken over the road clearing. During rainy season the path becomes so muddy, only a 4 wheel drive will be able to make up to the stupa.
Abhayagiri Museum
Abhayagiri Museum is situated along Anula Mawatha in Anuradhapura. It is a small museum with a fair collection of sculptures, pottery which belongs to the Anuradhapura era. The building of the Abhayagiri Museum depicts old colonial style architecture.
Anuradhapura Sandakada Pahana (Moonstone
Anuradhapura Sandakada Pahana (Moonstone) is a unique feature of the Sinhala architecture in ancient Sri Lanka which is usually found at the bottom of staircases and entrances. It is a finely carved semi-circular stone slab and symbolises the cycle of Saṃsāra in Buddhism according to historians. Initially, the Sandakada Pahana was placed at the entrances to Buddhist temples during the latter stages of the Anuradhapura period.
Anuradhapura Sandakada Pahana is an intricately carved semi-circular slab made of stone. It consists of a half lotus carved in the center. This is followed by several bands, each carved with animals such as elephants, lions, horses and bulls. The four animals are said to represent the four noble truths in Buddhism or the four stages of life (birth, old age, disease and death).Sandakada Pahana has been a main feature of architecture throughout the Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Kandy and Gampola periods. However, the bull has not been featured in the Sandakada Pahana of the Polonnaruwa period due to due to the strong influence of Hinduism during this era.
Toluvila Ruins
Toluvila Ruins are situated at the Toluvila Aramic Complex in Anuradhapura. The monastery belongs to the end of the Anuradhapura era which is from 7th century to 9th century. It is located just outside the city and is believed to be the place where Mahinda Thero took shelter when he was travelling from Chethiya Pabbatha to Maha Vihara in the 3rd century BC. The site does not have a proper name and has hence been named Toluvila, which is the village it is located in.
The most prominent feature of the Toluvila ruins is Buddha statue in the Samadhi posture, which is renowned as one of the best Samadhi statues in Sri Lanka, along with the famed Samadhi Statue in Mahamevnawa Gardens in Anuradhapura. The Samadhi Statue belonging to Toluvila Ruins has now been moved to the National Museum in Colombo. It is 1.75 m in height and is made of granite. The Toluvila Ruins bear evidence of a magnificent image house which would have existed in the Anuradhapura era.
Hospital Ruins
The Hospital Ruins are located at the foot of the hills in Mihintale, Anuradhapura. It consists of a medical bath which used to be a common way of treating various illnesses in ancient Sri Lanka. Patients are immersed in herbal and medicinal oil placed on a stone canoe. This hospital complex is perhaps considered to be the oldest hospital in the world. The entrance to the hospital consists of separate rooms for consultation, preparation and storage of medicines, and hot water baths.
Sinha Pokuna
Sinha Pokuna is situated in Mihintale, Anuradhapura. It bears sign for one of the earliest hydraulic civilizations of the Sinhalese kingdom. The Sinha Pokuna is one of the three remaining ponds and waterways which exist up-to-date in the area. Although it is named as “pond” it is much more of a water rail. It is named as “Sinha Pokuna” because of the figure of a lion carved onto rock just above the pond, from whose mouth the water falls from. It is believed to have an open air bath possibly used by the monks who lived in the caves nearby. The lion carving here is believed to be one of the finest animal carvings in ancient Sri Lanka.
Royal Palace of King Vijayabahu
Royal Palace of King Vijayabahu I is situated along Sangamiththa Mawatha in Anuradhapura. King Vijayabahu I is known to have freed Sri Lanka from the Cholas. Although the Royal Palace of King Vijayabahu I is in Anuradhapura, the king himself chose to rule from Polonnaruwa, as the former was almost destroyed by the Cholas and no longer suitable as the capital city. The guard stones on either side of the entrance to the palace are believed to represent “Sankhanihi” and “Padmanidhi”, who are known to be the attendants of the god of wealth, Kuvera.
Ritigala Monastery
Ritigala Monastery is an ancient Buddhist monastery which is situated atop the Ritigala Mountain in North Central Sri Lanka. The monastery has ruins and rock inscriptions which date back as far as the 1st century BC. The Ritigala Mountain is known to be the highest mountain peak in the northern territory. Ritigala is also a strict natural reserve and is home to five plant communities. Legend also has it that Lord Hanuman dropped a chunk off a mountain of the Himalayan range he was carrying all the way from India. This could be a reason for the medicinal plants and healing herbs which are found at the summit of the mountain.
Aradhana Gala
Aradhana Gala is a rock which is situated in Mihintale, to the east of Anuradhapura. It is a very important religious site for Buddhists in Sri Lanka. It is the exact place where Mihindu Thero first met and preached Buddhism to King Devanampiyatissa on Poson Poya Day. Today, a large number of Buddhists in Sri Lanka gather at this place every year on Poson Poya Day to observe religious rites in order to celebrate the birth of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
Mihindu, also known by the Indian name of “Mahinda”, was the son of the great emperor of India, King Ashoka. The king was inspired by a young monk and was captivated by his simplistic outlook of life. This inspired the king to follow the route of peace rather than war. As a result, his son and daughter followed in the path of Buddhism and was enlightened as Arahath. King Ashoka sent his son Mihindu Thero to Sri Lanka where his friend Kind Devanampiyatissa was ruling. The Lankan king met Mihindu Thero at Aradhana Gala in Mihintale on a Poson Poya Day, which is considered as a very sacred day in Sri Lanka. “Mihintale” translates to “Plateau of Mihindu”.
Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)
Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds) is a pair of ponds which is situated in Anuradhapura. It stands as an example for outstanding architectural and hydrological engineering creations in ancient Sri Lanka. The two ponds of different sizes are separated by a landscaped garden. The large pond is 40m X 15m in size with a depth of 5m. The small pool is 28m X 15m in size with a depth of 4m. The pond is decorated with intricate carvings of the Sinhalese architecture and has a flight of steps leading to the water.Kaludiya Pokuna is a pond situated in Mihintale, Anuradhapura. It bears signs of being one of the earliest hydraulic civilizations of the Sinhalese kingdom. The Kaludiya Pokuna is one of the three remaining ponds and waterways which exist up-to-date in the area. The pond, situated at the foot of the western slopes of Mihintale, is surrounded by what is believed to be the remains of a stupa and monastery. The pond gets its name because it appears dark most of the time due to the reflections of trees and shrubs from the adjacent forests.
Kaludiya Pokuna is the largest of the three ponds which exist at this location up to date. The other two remaining ponds, out of the many waterways and ponds to have been in existence in the area, are the Sinha Pokuna and Naga Pokuna. Historical experts believe that Kaludiya Pokuna is the “Porodini Pokuna” which is mentioned in ancient historical references.
Eth Pokuna (Elephant Pond
Eth Pokuna (Elephant Pond) is an enormous man-made pond which is situated in Anuradhapura. It is situated near Lankaramaya, which is a popular attraction site in the ancient historic city of Anuradhapura. The pond expands at a length of 159 m, width of 52.7 m and depth of 9.5 m. Source of the pond is the Periyakulama Tank via a a network of underground canals. The pond is continuously supplied with water through these canals for hundreds of years. Eth Pokuna is believed to be one of the largest man-made ponds in the whole of Anuradhapura and is believed to have been used by monks residing in the Abhayagiri Monastery.
Biso Maligaya
Biso Maligaya is situated at the Abhayagiri in Anuradhapura. “Biso Malihaya” translates to “Queen’s Palace” and is called so for no particular reason. It is also known as “Pancavasa” and is most popular because of the intricately carved moonstone located at this site. It is renowned as the best and most well-preserved moonstone of the Anuradhapura era.
Yapahuwa Rock Fortress
Yapahuwa Rock Fortress is situated in Mahawa, in between Kurunegala and Anuradhapura. Yapahuwa served as one of the capitals of the ancient Sri Lankan kingdom, in the latter part of the 13th century. It was built around a massive granite rock which rises about 90 meters from ground level.
History of Yapahuwa Rock Fortress
The fortress was built by King Buvanekabahu in the year 1273. It served as a palace and military fortress against foreign invaders, especially Dravidians from neighbouring India. The rock fortress consists of traces of ancient battles.
Ruins of Yapahuwa Rock Fortress
The fortress was built with a height of 4 m and a width of 22 m. It consists of a rampart and a moat. Many ancient ruins of the fortress can be seen up to this date. This includes the intricately carved Yapahuwa staircase, the lion stone sculpture, ruins of a stupa, Buddha statues and Kandyan era paintings. An image of the lion stone sculpture appears on the former ten-rupee note. The stone staircase is elaborately carved and is a highlighted feature of Yapahuwa. It connects to the walkway which leads to where the Tooth Relic Temple once existed. Top of the rock provide 360 degree views of the surrounding area.At the foot of the rock, a cave temple exists with 13th century frescoes. It also consists Buddha statues made from bronze and wood. There are 40 caves at Yapahuwa out of which 25 are with drip-ledges where inscriptions can be found.
Tooth Relic Temple at Yapahuwa Rock Fortress
The temple was constructed at the Yapahuwa Rock Fortress to keep the Tooth Relic which was brought all the way from Dambadeniya. The Tooth Relic Temple was built at the top of the third staircase. However, the Pandyas managed to capture the relics and carry them away to South India. These relics were recovered by King Parakkramabahu III in 1288 and placed safely in Polonnaruwa.
Museum at Yapahuwa Rock Fortress
A small museum exists at the bottom of the Yapahuwa rock. Stone sculptures of Vishnu and Kali and coins indicating trade connections with countries such as China are on display at the museum.
Purana Gama
Purana Gama is a cottage village which is situated in Nochchiyagama, Anuradhapura. Guests can experience the contemporary Sri Lankan village lifestyle at this location. Purana Gama consists of a Kadamandiya which is made up of a variety of restaurants. Other interesting sites at Purana Gama include the Gamey Pansala (temple), Game Nadu Sabhawa (courts) and Guru Gedara (school) etc. The place also has accommodation in a separate area with houses of names such as Korale Gedara, Wele Gedara and Govirala Gedara etc. Purana Gama surrounded in lush greenery is the perfect place to experience the traditional way of living in a Sri Lankan village.
Tissa Wewa
Tissa Wewa is an artificial reservoir which is situated in Anuradhapura. It was built by King Devanampiyatissa who reigned the kingdom of Anuradhapura in 3rd century BC. His goal of building this reservoir was to increase the water supply to Anuradhapura which was the capital city during his reign. Tissa Wewa spreads across a vast expanse of 550 acres and is 3.2 km long. Water from Tissa Wewa was used to fill the tanks of the king’s royal garden. It is among the best tanks built in the country and provides water to Anuradhapura up to this day.
Wilpattu National Park
Wilpattu National Park is a national park which is situated in the west coast of Sri Lanka. It is called “Wilpattu” because of its unique feature of “willus” or natural, sand-rimmed water basins which fill up with rain water. The park is 1,317 square km large in area with almost 106 lakes (willu) found within. It is also famed for being one of the largest and oldest national parks of Sri Lanka.
Leopards of Wilpattu National Park
Wilpattu National Park is famed for its leopard population. It is among the top national parks in the world in terms of leopard population. On October 2015, a sample of 49 individual leopards were captured through the camera lens of the Wilderness & Wildlife Conservation Trust which conducted a remote survey at the park.
Visiting Wilpattu National Park
Wilpattu National Park was closed from December 1988 to March 2003 because of the civil war in Sri Lanka. Visitors are limited to access only 25% of the park while the rest of the park continues to be the jungle. The best period to visit the Wilpattu National Park is from February to October.
Flora and Fauna of Wilpattu National Park
Apart from the famed leopards, Wilpattu National Park also consists of a wide variety of flora and fauna. A total of 31 species of mammals have been identified at the park which includes the elephant, sloth bear, spotted deer, water buffalo and leopard. The park is also home to many species of birds and reptiles.
Getting to Wilpattu National Park
From Anuradhapura travel along the Puttalam – Anuradhapura – Trincomalee Highway passing Nochchiyagama and turn to Wilpattu Sanctuary Road to reach the Wilpattu National Park.
