Travel to Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura
Located on the banks of Malvathu River, Anuradhapura is the first ancient capital of Sri Lanka. The city was the center of Theravada Buddhism for many centuries. Famous for its well-preserved ruins of an ancient Sinhala civilization, Anuradhapura is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and one of the eight World Heritage Sites of Sri Lanka. The city is also home to one of the largest and most sacred Bodhi trees in Sri Lanka, believed to be a descendant of the original Bodhi tree where Buddha got enlightenment.
The historic city of Anuradhapura is an essential stop on any Sri Lanka Tour. The vast network of ancient Buddhist temples, monasteries, and places of worship which cover over 40 sq. km has made it a sacred site to Buddhists around the world. Mirisaveti, Ruwanwelisaya, Abhayagiri, Jetavanarama, Thuparama, and Lankarama are the popular monasteries in Anuradhapura. Apart from these, the most popular tourist attractions in Anuradhapura are the sacred Maha Bodhi tree, Lovamahapaya or Brazen Palace, Archeological Museum, Isurumuniya Vihara, Rathnaprasada, Royal Palace and many more.
Vesak and Poson Festival are the popular festivals celebrated in Anuradhapura. Also known as Poson Poya Day, Poson Festival is celebrated to commemorate the introduction of Buddhism in Sri Lanka in the third century BC, thus it is of great historical and religious significance. It is the second most important festival for Buddhists right after the Vesak. Many choose to climb the many steps to the top of the Mihintale rock in Mihintale, which is popular as the main center and landmark in Anuradhapura during the festival.
Anuradhapura is a perfect holiday destination for visitors almost all year-round. However, June to September and December – February are the best seasons to visit Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka. During these months, the weather is dry and comfortable for day trips.
Sri Lanka is generally considered safe for travel. But, like any other destination, it is always important to practice caution and take the necessary precautions. Since the end of its civil war in 2009 security and stability has improved. The government has implemented measures to ensure the safety of both locals and tourists.
The economic crisis that started after COVID has now diminished. Fuel and power availability have been restored.
We advise you to stay informed about the current situation before planning your trip. We recommend checking travel advisories and following the guidance provided by your government. Also, make sure you’re sufficiently insured for the duration of your tour.
Sri Lanka is a popular destination for families due to its beautiful beaches, incredible wildlife, good food, and hospitality. There are many kid-friendly attractions and activities to experience. Hotels that cater to the needs of families as well. Sri Lanka offers a wide range of activities for kids.
When traveling with toddlers, make sure to get diapers and formula in major towns where supermarkets are available. Also, the kids should be vaccinated for rabies since there are many stray dogs around. Pack your mosquito repellents as well, since dengue is abundant. Consult with your hotel to confirm that they are baby- and child-friendly and can accommodate your special requests.
A few things to do with kids
- Boat trips
- Whale and Dolphin watching
- Seeing elephants on a wildlife safari in Yala or Udawalawe
- Visiting a sea turtle hatchery
- Visiting the Udawalwe Elephant transit home
- Discover the tea estates in Nuwara Eliya
- Visit Galle Fort
- Snorkeling in Pigeon Island
Since Sri Lanka is a small country, it makes it easier for kids as there is less time on the road.
- Tea
- Sri Lanka is one of the largest tea producers in the world. The scenic tea plantations in the central highlands of Nuwara Eliya and Ella are popular tourist attractions.
- Beaches
- The country has beautiful palm-fringed beaches along its coastline. Particularly on the west coast, south coast, and east coast. There are ample surfing hotspots like Arugam Bay and Weligama. Southern beaches like Mirissa, Weligama, Tangalle, Hiriketiya are trending beach hotspots.
- Wildlife
- Sri Lanka is a biodiversity hotspot, home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. It is known for its national parks, such as Yala, Minneriya, Wilpattu, and Udawalawe. Visitors can spot elephants, leopards, birds, and other wildlife. Whale- and dolphin-watching tours are also available in Mirissa, Kalpitiya and Trincomalee.
- Heritage Sites
- Sri Lanka has a rich archaeological heritage, with ancient cities and ruins. Sigiriya, an ancient rock fortress, and the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Cultural Events
- With a recorded history spanning over 2000 years and a diverse cultural landscape, Sri Lanka commemorates numerous religious and cultural festivals all year round. Prominent events like the Esala Perahera in Kandy, Vesak festival and the Sinhala and Tamil New Year exemplify the rich traditions of the country.
- Ayurveda and Wellness
- Sri Lanka is renowned for its traditional Ayurvedic medicine, which focuses on holistic healing and wellness. Many visitors come to Sri Lanka for Ayurvedic treatments and wellness retreats.
- Adventures
- Sri Lanka is embraced by captivatingly beautiful beaches, green mountains, and untouched waterways. This enchanting paradise presents an array of thrilling prospects for both adventure enthusiasts and nature aficionados. Positioned as an island sanctuary, it is encircled by the azure expanse of the ocean and intertwined with a network of rivers, lakes, and mountains soaring to heights over 2500 meters above sea level.
These natural features provide an abundance of avenues for exhilarating activities such as deep-sea fishing, sea kayaking, wind and kite surfing, flyboarding, paragliding, white-water rafting, canoeing, waterfall abseiling, river kayaking, rock climbing, zip-lining, and canoeing. Moreover, boasting over 200 shipwrecks scattered around its coastline, the island offers an enticing prospect for diving enthusiasts as well.
