Take a journey from Negombo or Colombo to ancient city of Anuradhapura and explore the historical city and back to Hotel in the evening.
Mahavihara, Sri Maha Bodhi, Thuparama stupa, Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba, Isurumuniya Rock temple, Jetavana Dagoba, Kuttam Pokuna, Abhayagiri Dagoba

Early in the morning start the journey from the hotel to Anuradhapura and you will directly guided the Historical City of Anuradhapura. Located in the North Central Province, the Sacred City of Anuradhapura is a magical place. Featuring some of the most ancient archaeological treasures in Sri Lanka, this vast heritage site is an impressive reminder of an ancient civilization.

You feel overwhelmed at scale of ancient Anuradhapura. At the centre of the ancient city is the Mahavihara, the oldest of the city’s monasteries. Worshippers still come to meditate here, drawn to the Sri Maha Bodhi, grown from the original tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment in Northern India. The Thuparama stupa, erected in the 3rd c.BC, was the first stupa to be built in 

Sri Lanka and enshrines the Buddha’s right collarbone. Standing before the red –brick Jetavana dagoba – once the third tallest structure in the world – is an awesome experience. The Abhayagiri dagoba is still covered in earth and vegetation, while the more famous Ruvanvalisaya dagoba, fully restored, is beautifully illuminated at night. 

The magnificent Kuttam pokuna or ‘twin pond’ with their stone steps are well preserved but all the remains of the Brazen Palace – once a nine-storey structure with 1,000 rooms – is 1,600 grainte columns. The Isurumuniya rock temple houses a famous 5th c. AD Indian-style sculpture known at the lovers.
Anuradhapura is nestled between three vast reservoirs known as tanks – the Basawakkulama, the Tissa Wewa and the Nuwara Wewa. Part of a sophisticated irrigation system developed from the 4th c. BC onwards, these still carry life-giving water to the fields in the dry zone, living testament to the engineering skills of the ancient rulers. 

The raised bunds of the tanks are perfect for an evening stroll and some bird-watching, while also offering great views of the city’s dagobas.
Explore the history, culture and the surrounding nature and back to hotel, end of your beautiful day with Enviro Day tours