Experience Puja Bumiya – Anuradhapura Sacred City Tour
Reach Anuradhapura
1. How much distance from Colombo to Anuradhapura?
- Approximately 205 km by road
- Travel time: 4.5 to 5.5 hours (by car or bus)
2. How big is Anuradhapura?
Covers an area of about 7,179 km² (district-wide)
The Sacred City itself spans a large archaeological area with many ancient sites
3. Which province is Anuradhapura in?
Located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka
4. Why is Anuradhapura popular?
One of Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Home to sacred Buddhist sites like Sri Maha Bodhiya, Ruwanweli Maha Seya, Abhayagiriya, and Mihintale
Known for its rich history, monastic ruins, and spiritual importance
4. What is the best time to visit Anuradhapura?
May to September – Dry season, ideal for exploring ruins and outdoor visits
Early mornings and late afternoons are best to avoid midday heat
27°C
Sri Maha Bodhiya
Sri Maha Bodhiya – The Sacred Tree of Enlightenment
Located in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, Sri Maha Bodhiya is one of the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka. This sacred fig tree, known as the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, is believed to be the oldest living tree in the world with a known planting date, dating back over 2,300 years.
The tree was grown from a cutting of the original Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India, under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Brought to Sri Lanka by Sanghamitta Theri, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka of India, the sapling was planted in 288 BCE by King Devanampiya Tissa and has been venerated ever since.
Today, Sri Maha Bodhiya remains a symbol of peace, wisdom, and spiritual awakening, attracting thousands of devotees and visitors each year. Pilgrims offer flowers, light oil lamps, and walk around the sacred tree in silent prayer. The site is beautifully maintained, with whitewashed walls, ancient stone pathways, and devotional offerings adding to its serene and sacred atmosphere.
Surrounded by history and holiness, visiting Sri Maha Bodhiya is not just a cultural experience but a deeply spiritual journey into Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage.
Ruwanweli Maha seya
Ruwanweli Maha Seya – A Monument of Devotion and Glory
Located in the sacred city of Anuradhapura, Ruwanweli Maha Seya is one of the most significant and venerated stupas in Sri Lanka. Built in the 2nd century BCE by King Dutugemunu, this majestic white stupa is a symbol of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage and the spiritual dedication of its ancient rulers.
Ruwanweli Maha Seya is revered as one of the Solosmasthana (16 sacred places of worship) and is believed to enshrine relics of the Buddha, making it a central site for Buddhist pilgrims. The stupa’s striking white dome, surrounded by a wall of elephant statues, creates a powerful and serene presence in the historic landscape of Anuradhapura.
Architecturally, the stupa reflects perfect symmetry and sacred geometry, standing at a height of approximately 103 meters, making it one of the tallest and largest ancient monuments in the world. The structure is surrounded by peaceful gardens and smaller shrines, offering a tranquil environment for reflection and prayer.
Ruwanweli Maha Seya is not just a religious monument but a symbol of unity, cultural pride, and devotion that has withstood the test of time. It continues to inspire and attract countless worshippers and travelers seeking a deeper connection to Sri Lanka’s spiritual roots.
Mihintale
Mihintale – The Birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka
Mihintale, located just a few kilometers from Anuradhapura, is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka. It is widely regarded as the place where Buddhism was first introduced to the island in the 3rd century BCE, following a historic meeting between Arahat Mahinda, the son of Indian Emperor Ashoka, and King Devanampiya Tissa.
At the top, you’ll find important religious and architectural landmarks, including the Ambasthala Dagoba, built on the very spot where the first Buddhist sermon was delivered, the Maha Stupa, the Aradhana Gala (Meditation Rock), and the remains of ancient monastic dwellings and hospitals.
Mihintale stands as a powerful symbol of faith, peace, and enlightenment, offering a meaningful journey for pilgrims and travelers alike. Its rich history, sacred atmosphere, and scenic beauty make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Sri Lanka’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
Abayagiriya
Abhayagiriya – A Grand Monument of Ancient Buddhist Civilization
Located in the heart of Anuradhapura, Abhayagiriya Stupa is one of the most impressive and historically significant monuments in Sri Lanka. Built in the 1st century BCE by King Valagamba, it once served as the centerpiece of the Abhayagiri Monastery, a major center of Buddhist learning and worship for over a thousand years.
Standing originally at a towering height of over 100 meters, Abhayagiriya was among the tallest structures in the ancient world, rivalling the pyramids of Egypt. Today, even after centuries of erosion and restoration, the stupa remains an awe-inspiring sight, surrounded by serene grounds and ancient ruins.
The monastery complex spread across a vast area and housed thousands of monks, scholars, and pilgrims from across Asia. It was known not only for its size but also for its role in promoting Mahayana and Theravada Buddhist teachings, making it a vibrant hub of religious and cultural exchange.
Walking through the Abhayagiriya site, visitors encounter the remnants of majestic image houses, stone carvings, moonstones, and historic inscriptions that speak to the grandeur of a bygone era. The stupa and its surroundings exude a deep spiritual energy, making it a place of reflection, reverence, and admiration.
Abhayagiriya remains a powerful symbol of Sri Lanka’s spiritual legacy and architectural brilliance, and is a must-visit for those interested in the island’s rich Buddhist heritage.
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Bus, Airlines
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3 Stars Hotels
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5,416 metres
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Kathmandu
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Feb, Mar, Apr & May
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Eco-Tour, Hiking
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All meals during the trek
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English, Spanish, French, Chinese
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Easy to Moderate
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2-15
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12
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65
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2
Overview
Experience Puja Bumiya – Anuradhapura Sacred City Tour
Reach Anuradhapura
1. How much distance from Colombo to Anuradhapura?
- Approximately 205 km by road
- Travel time: 4.5 to 5.5 hours (by car or bus)
2. How big is Anuradhapura?
Covers an area of about 7,179 km² (district-wide)
The Sacred City itself spans a large archaeological area with many ancient sites
3. Which province is Anuradhapura in?
Located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka
4. Why is Anuradhapura popular?
One of Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Home to sacred Buddhist sites like Sri Maha Bodhiya, Ruwanweli Maha Seya, Abhayagiriya, and Mihintale
Known for its rich history, monastic ruins, and spiritual importance
4. What is the best time to visit Anuradhapura?
May to September – Dry season, ideal for exploring ruins and outdoor visits
Early mornings and late afternoons are best to avoid midday heat
27°C
Sri Maha Bodhiya
Sri Maha Bodhiya – The Sacred Tree of Enlightenment
Located in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, Sri Maha Bodhiya is one of the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka. This sacred fig tree, known as the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, is believed to be the oldest living tree in the world with a known planting date, dating back over 2,300 years.
The tree was grown from a cutting of the original Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India, under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Brought to Sri Lanka by Sanghamitta Theri, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka of India, the sapling was planted in 288 BCE by King Devanampiya Tissa and has been venerated ever since.
Today, Sri Maha Bodhiya remains a symbol of peace, wisdom, and spiritual awakening, attracting thousands of devotees and visitors each year. Pilgrims offer flowers, light oil lamps, and walk around the sacred tree in silent prayer. The site is beautifully maintained, with whitewashed walls, ancient stone pathways, and devotional offerings adding to its serene and sacred atmosphere.
Surrounded by history and holiness, visiting Sri Maha Bodhiya is not just a cultural experience but a deeply spiritual journey into Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage.
Ruwanweli Maha seya
Ruwanweli Maha Seya – A Monument of Devotion and Glory
Located in the sacred city of Anuradhapura, Ruwanweli Maha Seya is one of the most significant and venerated stupas in Sri Lanka. Built in the 2nd century BCE by King Dutugemunu, this majestic white stupa is a symbol of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage and the spiritual dedication of its ancient rulers.
Ruwanweli Maha Seya is revered as one of the Solosmasthana (16 sacred places of worship) and is believed to enshrine relics of the Buddha, making it a central site for Buddhist pilgrims. The stupa’s striking white dome, surrounded by a wall of elephant statues, creates a powerful and serene presence in the historic landscape of Anuradhapura.
Architecturally, the stupa reflects perfect symmetry and sacred geometry, standing at a height of approximately 103 meters, making it one of the tallest and largest ancient monuments in the world. The structure is surrounded by peaceful gardens and smaller shrines, offering a tranquil environment for reflection and prayer.
Ruwanweli Maha Seya is not just a religious monument but a symbol of unity, cultural pride, and devotion that has withstood the test of time. It continues to inspire and attract countless worshippers and travelers seeking a deeper connection to Sri Lanka’s spiritual roots.
Mihintale
Mihintale – The Birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka
Mihintale, located just a few kilometers from Anuradhapura, is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka. It is widely regarded as the place where Buddhism was first introduced to the island in the 3rd century BCE, following a historic meeting between Arahat Mahinda, the son of Indian Emperor Ashoka, and King Devanampiya Tissa.
At the top, you’ll find important religious and architectural landmarks, including the Ambasthala Dagoba, built on the very spot where the first Buddhist sermon was delivered, the Maha Stupa, the Aradhana Gala (Meditation Rock), and the remains of ancient monastic dwellings and hospitals.
Mihintale stands as a powerful symbol of faith, peace, and enlightenment, offering a meaningful journey for pilgrims and travelers alike. Its rich history, sacred atmosphere, and scenic beauty make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Sri Lanka’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
Abayagiriya
Abhayagiriya – A Grand Monument of Ancient Buddhist Civilization
Located in the heart of Anuradhapura, Abhayagiriya Stupa is one of the most impressive and historically significant monuments in Sri Lanka. Built in the 1st century BCE by King Valagamba, it once served as the centerpiece of the Abhayagiri Monastery, a major center of Buddhist learning and worship for over a thousand years.
Standing originally at a towering height of over 100 meters, Abhayagiriya was among the tallest structures in the ancient world, rivalling the pyramids of Egypt. Today, even after centuries of erosion and restoration, the stupa remains an awe-inspiring sight, surrounded by serene grounds and ancient ruins.
The monastery complex spread across a vast area and housed thousands of monks, scholars, and pilgrims from across Asia. It was known not only for its size but also for its role in promoting Mahayana and Theravada Buddhist teachings, making it a vibrant hub of religious and cultural exchange.
Walking through the Abhayagiriya site, visitors encounter the remnants of majestic image houses, stone carvings, moonstones, and historic inscriptions that speak to the grandeur of a bygone era. The stupa and its surroundings exude a deep spiritual energy, making it a place of reflection, reverence, and admiration.
Abhayagiriya remains a powerful symbol of Sri Lanka’s spiritual legacy and architectural brilliance, and is a must-visit for those interested in the island’s rich Buddhist heritage.
Highlights
- Trek to the world-famous Everest Base Camp
- Enjoy the amazing view of the Himalayas from Kala Patthar
- Travel through the Sherpa villages of Namche, Khumjung, Khunde, and Dingboche
- Visit Tengboche the biggest and oldest monastery n the region.