Anuradhapura & Mihintale: 7 Must-See Wonders in Sri Lanka

January 17, 2025 Melshan Perera

Anuradhapura & Mihintale: 7 Must-See Wonders in Sri Lanka

Anuradhapura & Mihintale: Exploring Sri Lanka’s Sacred History

Anuradhapura & Mihintale are two of Sri Lanka’s most cherished historical sites. These sacred locations, steeped in cultural and religious significance, offer a window into Sri Lanka’s rich heritage. With ancient ruins, awe-inspiring stupas, and serene landscapes, Anuradhapura & Mihintale captivate visitors with their timeless beauty.

In this guide, we will delve into the history, key attractions, and travel tips for exploring these iconic destinations.

Why Anuradhapura & Mihintale are Famous

1. Anuradhapura: The Ancient Capital

Anuradhapura was the first capital of Sri Lanka and a major center of Theravada Buddhism. Established in the 4th century BCE, it flourished for over 1,000 years. The city is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its ancient stupas, palaces, and monasteries.

Key attractions include:

Ruwanwelisaya: This massive stupa, built in 140 BCE, symbolizes the Buddha’s enlightenment. Learn more on Wikipedia.
Sri Maha Bodhi: The sacred Bodhi tree, grown from a sapling of the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. Details on Wikipedia.
Jetavanaramaya: Once the world’s tallest structure, this stupa represents Sri Lanka’s ancient engineering prowess.

2. Mihintale: The Birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka

Located 13 kilometers from Anuradhapura, Mihintale is considered the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. It is here that King Devanampiya Tissa converted to Buddhism after meeting Arahat Mahinda in 247 BCE.

Top highlights:

Mihintale Rock: A sacred hill featuring stupas, caves, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Learn more on Wikipedia.
Kantaka Chetiya: A well-preserved stupa showcasing ancient Sinhalese craftsmanship.
Ambasthala Dagoba: A small stupa marking the spot where Arahat Mahinda delivered his first sermon.

Our Tours Packages

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Top Things to Do in Anuradhapura & Mihintale

1. Tour the Sacred Sites of Anuradhapura

Explore iconic landmarks such as the Abhayagiri Monastery and the Isurumuniya Vihara, known for its intricate rock carvings.

2. Hike Mihintale Rock

Climb 1,840 steps to reach the summit of Mihintale Rock, where breathtaking views await. Don’t miss the chance to meditate in the serene surroundings.

3. Visit Archaeological Museums

Learn about ancient Sri Lankan civilization by visiting the Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum and the Mihintale Museum, which house fascinating artifacts.

4. Witness Religious Ceremonies

Experience the spiritual ambiance by attending pujas (prayer rituals) at Sri Maha Bodhi or during Poson Poya, an important Buddhist festival commemorating Arahat Mahinda’s arrival.

Address

128/B walawaththa road,Seeduwa,Katunayaka,Sri Lanka

Contact

Mobile: +94 76 133 6800
Whatsapp: +94 76 133 6800

Email

Best Time to Visit Anuradhapura & Mihintale

The ideal time to visit is between December and April, when the weather is dry and pleasant. The Poson Poya festival in June is a must-see for its vibrant celebrations.

How to Reach Anuradhapura & Mihintale

By Train: Take the train from Colombo to Anuradhapura, which offers scenic views of the countryside.
By Bus: Buses operate frequently from major cities like Colombo and Kandy.
By Car: Hiring a private car allows flexibility to explore nearby attractions.

Where to Stay

Luxury: Ulagalla by Uga Escapes offers luxurious villas surrounded by lush greenery.
Mid-Range: Rajarata Hotel provides comfortable accommodations with modern amenities.
Budget: Stay at guesthouses like Milano Tourist Rest for affordable options.

Tips for Visiting Anuradhapura & Mihintale

Wear modest clothing as you’ll be visiting sacred sites.
Bring sunscreen and water, especially for the climb at Mihintale.
Hire a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and culture.

Preserve the Heritage

When visiting Anuradhapura & Mihintale, respect the local customs and refrain from touching or climbing on ancient structures. By doing so, you help preserve these treasures for future generations.

Discover the timeless charm of Anuradhapura & Mihintale—Sri Lanka’s sacred gems that offer a perfect blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Start planning your trip today to experience the legacy of these ancient wonders.