4th C BC
UNESCO
122m
Cultural Triangle
One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Anuradhapura was Sri Lanka’s first great ancient capital — a vast sacred city of gleaming white dagobas, sacred Bodhi trees, and ruined royal palaces that stretches across the north-central plains. Continuously inhabited for over a millennium, it served as the island’s political and religious heart from the 4th century BC until the 11th century AD.
The Sacred Bodhi Tree
At the spiritual heart of the city stands the Sri Maha Bodhi — the oldest authenticated tree in the world, now over 2,300 years old. Brought to Sri Lanka in 288 BC, this ancient fig tree has been tended by an unbroken succession of guardians ever since.
The Great Dagobas
Anuradhapura’s three great dagobas — Ruwanwelisaya, Jetavanaramaya, and Abhayagiriya — were among the largest structures built anywhere in the ancient world. Walking among these colossal stupas at dawn, when pilgrims in white wrap flowers and light oil lamps in silence, is one of the most powerfully spiritual experiences Sri Lanka offers.
4th C BC
UNESCO
122m
Cultural Triangle
One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Anuradhapura was Sri Lanka’s first great ancient capital — a vast sacred city of gleaming white dagobas, sacred Bodhi trees, and ruined royal palaces that stretches across the north-central plains. Continuously inhabited for over a millennium, it served as the island’s political and religious heart from the 4th century BC until the 11th century AD.
The Sacred Bodhi Tree
At the spiritual heart of the city stands the Sri Maha Bodhi — the oldest authenticated tree in the world, now over 2,300 years old. Brought to Sri Lanka in 288 BC, this ancient fig tree has been tended by an unbroken succession of guardians ever since.
The Great Dagobas
Anuradhapura’s three great dagobas — Ruwanwelisaya, Jetavanaramaya, and Abhayagiriya — were among the largest structures built anywhere in the ancient world. Walking among these colossal stupas at dawn, when pilgrims in white wrap flowers and light oil lamps in silence, is one of the most powerfully spiritual experiences Sri Lanka offers.
