Colombo Attractions
Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura
The remains of the ancient sacred city of Anuradhapura are sited
about 130 miles (205km) north of Colombo, standing majestically in
the jungle that for generations hid away the palaces, monasteries
and monuments, which have been there since the third century BC.
The ancient city was capital of the island for more than 10
centuries, until an invasion in 993, having initially been founded
around a fig tree grown from a cutting of Buddha's 'tree of
enlightenment'. The remains visible today consist of several
magnificent dagobas (domes built to enshrine sacred relics),
sculptures, carvings, ruined palaces and monasteries, bathing ponds
and irrigation tanks. Tourist facilities and hotels are available
in the nearby 'new town' of Anuradhapura. A recommended way to view
the many scattered archaeological treasures is to hire a bicycle,
or travel between sights on a 'Tuk-tuk'.
Opening time: Daily 8am to 5pm;
Admission: US$20
