Anuradhapura | Things to Do

Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is the most sacred and venerated site in Sri Lanka.
Its importance is not only revered by the Buddhist world but the entire world in celebration of its fame as the oldest recorded living tree in the world.
The sapling of this Bodhi tree was brought by the daughter of Emperor Ashoka of India, Sanghamitta.
The sapling was received by King Devanapiyatissa who planted this at this site with ceremony and reverance.
It is the only sacred relic in the whole world which has been sanctified by the touch of the Lord Buddha
It is the spiritual heart of Anuradhapura, protected by a golden railing adorned with colourful prayer flags offered by pilgrims.

Ruwanwelisaya Dagaba is considered an icon of architectural glory in ancient Sri Lanka and is the oldest stupa in the island.
Built with ambition by King Dutugemunu to revive Buddhism in the country.
A characteristic feature of the stupa is the embellishments of elephant carvings around its base.
This site was designed with the teachings of the Buddha in which the dome signifies the vastness of the doctrine.
The four facets represent the Four Noble Truths and the concentric rings indicate the Noble Eightfold Middle Path.
The large crystal at the pinnacle represents the ultimate Buddhist goal of enlightenment.
One of Anuradhapura’s 8 places of reverence that was believed to have been visited by Lord Buddha.

Wilpattu National Park is the oldest and largest Wildlife National Park in Sri Lanka.
It is a major destination for large population of leopards and sloth bears.
Water bodies or ‘villus’ called lakes are what defines Wilpattu adding beauty to its landscape.
Wilpattu is a habitat for 31 species of mammals, butterflies and turtles.
The park consists of a long coastal belt which is covered with low scrubs and grasses such as salt grass.
The jeep safari is a very popular and fun excursion in exploring the wild at the national park.