Anuradhapura Private Ancient City Day Tour

The Anuradhapura Private Ancient City Day Tour offers travelers a remarkable opportunity to explore one of Sri Lanka’s most significant UNESCO World Heritage Sites. With a personal guide leading the way, visitors can enjoy the rich history and cultural heritage of this ancient city. From the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree to the impressive Ruwanweli Maha Seya stupa, each iconic site holds incredible stories waiting to be discovered. What secrets will this captivating tour uncover?

Key Points

• This private tour offers a personalized experience of exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Anuradhapura, an ancient city in Sri Lanka.
• The tour includes expert insights into the history, Buddhism, and culture of Anuradhapura, with visits to iconic sites like the Samadhi Buddha Statue and Ruwanweli Maha Seya.
• Hassle-free travel is provided with hotel pickup and drop-off, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.
• Visitors can explore the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi, one of the world’s oldest living trees, and observe daily rituals and offerings.
• The tour is priced from $31.30 per person and is available in English and Spanish, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Anuradhapura Private Ancient City Day Tour is a private ancient city day tour of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s first capital city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Priced from $31.30 per person, this 5-hour tour is available in English and Spanish. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and is wheelchair accessible.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers will enjoy a personalized experience with a dedicated guide, and learn about Anuradhapura’s history, Buddhism, and culture while visiting iconic sites like Sri Maha Bodhi, Ruwanweli Maha Seya, and Jethawanaramaya.

Tour Features

As a private experience, this tour allows travelers to enjoy a personalized tour with a dedicated guide.

This private tour offers travelers a personalized experience with a dedicated guide.

The expert insights shared by the guide provide valuable information about Anuradhapura’s history, Buddhism, and culture.

The hassle-free travel includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless experience.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the following iconic sites:

1. Sri Maha Bodhi, the sacred fig tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.

2. Ruwanweli Maha Seya, one of the largest and most impressive stupas in Anuradhapura.

3. Jethawanaramaya, the third-largest stupa in the world.

4. Kuttam Pokuna, the stunning ancient twin ponds.

Iconic Sites Explored

Along With the highlights mentioned earlier, the tour provides an opportunity to explore several other iconic sites in Anuradhapura. Visitors can marvel at the Samadhi Buddha Statue, a masterpiece of ancient Sri Lankan art. The grand Abhayagiri Vihara complex, with its towering stupa and ruined monasteries, offers a glimpse into the region’s rich Buddhist heritage. The Elephant Pond, Anuradhapura Moonstone, and Muragala (Guard Stone) showcase the architectural and engineering prowess of the ancient kingdom. These fascinating sites come alive through the guide’s expertise, immersing guests in Anuradhapura’s enduring legacy.

| Site | Duration |

| — | — |

| Samadhi Buddha Statue | 25 minutes |

| Abhayagiri Vihara | 25 minutes |

| Elephant Pond | 25 minutes |

Exploring Sri Maha Bodhi

Situated within the ancient city of Anuradhapura, Sri Maha Bodhi is revered as one of the world’s oldest living trees. This sacred fig tree is said to have grown from a sapling brought from India in the 3rd century BC.

Visitors can:

1. Witness the daily rituals and offerings made to this holy site.

2. Admire the intricate stone carvings and architectural wonders surrounding the tree.

3. Stroll through the serene gardens and feel a sense of tranquility.

4. Learn about the tree’s legendary origins and its significance in Buddhist history.

Exploring Sri Maha Bodhi is a highlight of any Anuradhapura tour.

More Great Tours Nearby

Discovering Ruwanweli Maha Seya

Towering majestically within the ancient city, Ruwanweli Maha Seya is one of Anuradhapura’s most iconic monuments. Commissioned by King Dutugamunu in the 2nd century BCE, this massive stupa stands at 103 meters tall, making it the second-tallest in Sri Lanka. The structure’s intricate architectural design and religious significance captivate visitors.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Construction | Completed in 140 BCE |

| Materials | Brick and stone |

| Religious Importance | Enshrines relics of the Buddha |

| Architectural Style | Sinhalese-Buddhist |

Ruwanweli Maha Seya’s grandeur and historical significance make it a must-see during any visit to Anuradhapura.

Visiting Jethawanaramaya and Kuttam Pokuna

After marveling at the grandeur of Ruwanweli Maha Seya, the tour progresses to explore two other significant sites – Jethawanaramaya and Kuttam Pokuna.

1. Jethawanaramaya: One of the largest brick stupas in the world, this colossal monument stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of ancient Anuradhapura.

2. Kuttam Pokuna: These twin ponds showcase the advanced hydraulic engineering of the era, with their symmetrical design and intricate water channels.

3. The guide shares insightful commentary on the historical and cultural significance of these sites, enriching the visitor’s understanding of Anuradhapura’s legacy.

4. Guests have ample time to explore these iconic landmarks, capturing the essence of the ancient city through both visual and experiential learning.

Encountering the Samadhi Buddha Statue and Abhayagiri Vihara

As the tour continues, visitors are captivated by the serene presence of the Samadhi Buddha Statue. The exquisitely carved figure portrays the Buddha in a state of deep meditation, embodying peace and tranquility.

Next, the group explores the imposing Abhayagiri Vihara, one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in the ancient world. Visitors marvel at the intricate stone carvings and the sheer scale of the complex, which once housed over 5,000 monks.

The guide’s knowledgeable explanations bring the site’s rich history to life, immersing the group in the extraordinary cultural heritage of Anuradhapura.

Additional Highlights and Practical Information

Beyond the iconic sites, the tour also highlights other memorable stops.

Visitors can admire the Elephant Pond, a tranquil reservoir that once housed the royal elephants.

The Anuradhapura Moonstone, a masterpiece of ancient Sinhalese architecture, showcases the intricate craftsmanship of the period.

The Muragala, or guard stone, stands as a testament to the security measures implemented in the ancient city.

Finally, the tour includes a visit to the Thuparama Seya, one of the oldest and most revered dagobas in Anuradhapura.

With these additional highlights, the tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Be Customized to My Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to the customer’s interests. The private nature of the experience allows the guide to adapt the itinerary and focus on the sites and topics that are most relevant to the individual traveler.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Anuradhapura?

The best time to visit Anuradhapura is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. The weather’s milder, and there are fewer crowds, making it easier to explore the ancient city’s iconic sites.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Ancient Sites?

There are typically no strict dress code requirements for visiting the ancient sites in Anuradhapura. However, it’s respectful to wear modest, covered clothing that’s appropriate for a cultural heritage destination. Light, breathable fabrics are recommended given the warm climate.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Ancient Monuments?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photographs inside the ancient monuments. However, they should avoid using flash and respect any signage or instructions from the site staff regarding photography restrictions.

Are There Any Options for a Longer or Shorter Tour Duration?

The tour duration can be adjusted. Customers can request a longer or shorter tour based on their preferences. The standard 5-hour tour can be extended or shortened to accommodate individual needs.

The Sum Up

The Anuradhapura Private Ancient City Day Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to take in Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. With a dedicated guide, travelers can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, visiting iconic landmarks like the Sri Maha Bodhi tree and the Ruwanweli Maha Seya stupa, while gaining insightful knowledge. This personalized experience, including hotel pickup and drop-off, provides a hassle-free way to discover the wonders of Anuradhapura.

You can check availability for your dates here: