Anuradhapura, located in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and the first capital of ancient Sri Lanka. Founded in the 4th century BCE, it served as the spiritual, political, and cultural heart of the island for over 1,300 years. Today, Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its magnificent stupas, monasteries, and ancient reservoirs that showcase the brilliance of early Sinhalese civilization. The towering Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba, the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree (grown from a branch of the original Bodhi tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment), and the Jetavanaramaya Stupa stand as timeless symbols of Buddhist devotion and architectural mastery. Surrounded by tranquil lakes and lush landscapes, Anuradhapura remains a living heritage site — where ancient traditions, pilgrimages, and monastic life continue to thrive alongside modern development. Visiting Anuradhapura offers a journey back in time — an opportunity to walk among ruins that whisper stories of kings, monks, and a civilization built on faith and wisdom.
