Anuradhapura,Sri Lanka

• Sri Maha Bodhi (sacred Bo tree)
• Ruwanwelisaya (grand stupa)
• Jetavanaramaya (one of the tallest brick structures of the ancient world)
• Thuparamaya (oldest dagoba housing the Buddha's collarbone relic)
• Abhayagiri and Jethavanarama monastic complexes
• Isurumuniya Rock Temple (carvings and the 'Lovers' sculpture')
• Samadhi Buddha (iconic seated Buddha statue)
• Kuttam Pokuna (Twin ponds) and ancient bathing complexes
• Ancient reservoirs and irrigation works (Tissa Wewa, Nuwarawewa)
• Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum and Ranmasu Uyana (Royal Pleasure Garden)

• Massive brick stupas (dagobas) — exceptional examples of ancient brick masonry
• The living Sri Maha Bodhi: one of the oldest living human-planted trees with a known planting date
• Extensive monastic ruins, stone inscriptions and moonstones (sandakadapahana)
• Sophisticated ancient irrigation tanks and canals illustrating early hydraulic technology
• Sacred pilgrimage atmosphere with daily rituals and Poya-day observances

• Pilgrimage and devotional visits to the Sri Maha Bodhi and major dagobas
• Guided walking or bicycle tours through the Sacred City ruins
• Sunrise/sunset visits for photography and peaceful reflection
• Visit the Archaeological Museum and interpretive displays
• Day trip to nearby Mihintale (birthplace of Sri Lankan Buddhism) and cycling around ancient reservoirs

• Poson Poya (commemorates introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka; large pilgrimages and religious observances)
• Vesak (Buddha's birth, enlightenment, parinibbana — illuminated temples and devotional acts)
• Full Moon (Poya) day observances with temple ceremonies and almsgiving throughout the year

January to April (drier months and more comfortable for exploring extensive outdoor ruins); avoid the wet season (southwest monsoon) if possible.

Tropical and generally hot: daytime temperatures typically range from 25–35°C (77–95°F); dry season is hot and sunny; expect higher humidity in shoulder seasons.

Nearest major international airport: Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) near Colombo (approx. 3–4 hours by road depending on traffic). Anuradhapura has a domestic airport (small) and is well-connected by train and bus from Colombo and other cities. The city is spread out—bicycles, tuk-tuks and hired drivers are common ways to move between sites.

1–3 days in Anuradhapura to cover the main sacred sites and nearby Mihintale; extend if you want a relaxed pace or photography focus.

Modest clothing for temple visits (cover shoulders and knees), lightweight breathable fabrics, comfortable walking shoes or sandals (you will remove footwear at temple entrances), hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and refillable water bottle. Consider a portable umbrella for shade or rain.

Try local Sri Lankan staples such as rice and curry, hoppers (appa), kottu, fresh coconut and seasonal fruits. Souvenirs include Buddhist-themed brass/copper statuettes, handloom textiles, batik, wood carvings, and locally made religious items. Respect temple rules about purchasing or photographing sacred objects.