The Sacred City of Anuradhapura is one of the most important and revered historical sites in Sri Lanka. As the first capital of the island and a key center of Theravada Buddhism, Anuradhapura holds an unparalleled place in Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient city offers visitors a chance to explore centuries-old stupas, monasteries, and religious monuments that shaped the history of Buddhism and Sri Lanka’s civilization.
A Brief History of Anuradhapura
Founded in the 4th century BC, Anuradhapura served as the capital of the Sinhalese Kingdom for over 1,000 years. The city became a thriving religious and political hub, reaching its peak between the 4th and 11th centuries AD. It was not only the political center but also the heart of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, with many of its landmarks associated with significant events in the spread of Buddhism.
After its decline due to invasions in the 10th century, Anuradhapura fell into ruin and was largely forgotten by the outside world until it was rediscovered in the 19th century. Today, it stands as one of the most extensive archaeological sites in South Asia.
Highlights of Anuradhapura
1. Sri Maha Bodhi (The Sacred Bo Tree)
One of the most sacred places in Anuradhapura is the Sri Maha Bodhi, a direct descendant of the original Bodhi Tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment in India. Planted in 288 BC, it is the oldest living human-planted tree in the world with a documented history. The tree has been protected and venerated for centuries, making it an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
Visitors can experience the peaceful atmosphere of the site, where devotees offer flowers, prayers, and light oil lamps. The Sri Maha Bodhi continues to be a symbol of Buddhism’s enduring influence in Sri Lanka.
2. Ruwanwelisaya Stupa
The Ruwanwelisaya is one of the most iconic stupas in Sri Lanka. Built by King Dutugemunu in 140 BC, it stands as a symbol of his victory over King Elara and the unification of the island under Buddhism. The stupa is a striking white structure with a circumference of 950 feet and a height of 338 feet, making it one of the largest stupas in Sri Lanka.
Ruwanwelisaya is considered a highly revered stupa in Sri Lanka, as it is believed to enshrine relics of the Buddha. The grandeur of this structure is a testament to the devotion and architectural skills of the ancient Sinhalese.
3. Thuparamaya Stupa
The Thuparamaya Stupa holds the distinction of being the first stupa built in Sri Lanka after the introduction of Buddhism to the island. Constructed by King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd century BC, it is believed to contain a relic of the Buddha’s collarbone.
Although the original stupa has undergone restoration over the centuries, Thuparamaya remains a key religious site in Sri Lankan Buddhist history. Its cylindrical shape is unique among stupas in the country and adds to the architectural diversity of Anuradhapura.
4. Abhayagiri Monastery Complex
The Abhayagiri Monastery was once one of the largest and most important monasteries in Sri Lanka. Founded in the 1st century BC by King Valagamba, Abhayagiri became a major center of learning and religious life. The Abhayagiri Dagaba, the monastery’s stupa, stands 75 meters high and was among the tallest monuments of its time.
Abhayagiri served as a hub for Buddhist scholars and monks, including those who followed the Mahayana school of Buddhism. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the monastery, including the intricately carved moonstone at its entrance and the impressive brick structures that remain.
5. Jetavanaramaya Stupa
Another monumental stupa in Anuradhapura is the Jetavanaramaya Stupa, built by King Mahasena in the 3rd century AD. At the time of its completion, Jetavanaramaya was one of the tallest structures in the ancient world, standing at 122 meters (400 feet) high. Although it has since weathered over time, it remains an awe-inspiring sight and the largest stupa made entirely of brick.
Jetavanaramaya is part of the larger Jetavana Monastery Complex, which was home to thousands of monks during its heyday. The stupa itself is believed to enshrine a belt of the Buddha, making it a significant religious site.
The Importance of Anuradhapura in Buddhism
Anuradhapura is often referred to as the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Many of the city’s stupas and monuments were built to house sacred relics of the Buddha, and the city played a pivotal role in the spread of Theravada Buddhism throughout Southeast Asia.
The city was also home to a number of monasteries and educational institutions where Buddhist monks studied and shared religious knowledge. The preservation and expansion of Buddhism during Anuradhapura’s reign have had a lasting influence on the religious and cultural identity of Sri Lanka.
Exploring the Sacred City Today
Visiting Anuradhapura is a journey through time. The sheer scale of the ancient city, combined with the spiritual significance of its monuments, creates a unique experience for travelers. The city is spread out over a large area, so it’s recommended to either hire a bike or a tuk-tuk to explore the site comfortably.
Many travelers find the most moving part of their visit to be the atmosphere around the Sri Maha Bodhi, where pilgrims from across the country come to pay homage. The city’s ancient irrigation systems, including the Tissa Wewa and Nuwara Wewa reservoirs, also offer scenic spots for visitors to relax and appreciate the engineering marvels of the past.
Tips for Visiting Anuradhapura
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Best Time to Visit: The dry season from December to March is ideal for exploring Anuradhapura, as the weather is pleasant for walking or cycling between the monuments.
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What to Wear: Anuradhapura is a religious site, so modest dress is required. Be sure to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting stupas and temples.
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Duration: Plan to spend at least a full day in Anuradhapura to fully explore its main attractions. The city is vast, and there’s plenty to see.
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Nearby Attractions: Combine your visit with a trip to Mihintale, a sacred mountain that is said to be the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, or explore the nearby Ritigala Nature Reserve, which is known for its beautiful hiking trails and ancient ruins.
The Sacred City of Anuradhapura is a living testament to Sri Lanka’s religious, cultural, and architectural achievements. From the towering stupas of Ruwanwelisaya and Jetavanaramaya to the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi, Anuradhapura remains a revered pilgrimage site and a must-visit for anyone interested in the spiritual and historical heritage of Sri Lanka. A journey through Anuradhapura is not only a dive into Sri Lanka’s past but also a profound experience of the island’s deep-rooted connection to Buddhism.
