Anuradhapura & Aukana: Private Day Tour From Sigiriya

Uncover the rich heritage of Sri Lanka on an enchanting private day tour from Sigiriya. Venture to the UNESCO-listed city of Anuradhapura, where you’ll explore its ancient wonders like the Jetavanaramaya Stupa. Then, marvel at the awe-inspiring Aukana Buddha statue, a true testament to the island’s cultural legacy. This comprehensive tour promises an immersive experience, blending captivating sights with local delicacies and expert guidance. Prepare to be captivated by the country’s timeless allure and uncover the secrets that lie within.

Key Points

• A private day tour from Sigiriya to the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Aukana, exploring UNESCO-listed sites and the towering Aukana Buddha statue.
• The tour is priced at €107.50 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and an option to reserve without upfront payment.
• The itinerary includes exploring Anuradhapura’s historic monasteries, stupas, and reservoirs, as well as experiencing the peaceful presence of the Aukana Buddha statue at sunset.
• The tour offers a culture in ancient Sri Lankan heritage, with opportunities to savor local cuisine and observe expert craftsmanship of the carved granite.
• Specific guidelines ensure a respectful cultural experience and preservation of the sites, including dress code requirements and prohibitions on certain activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This private day tour from Sigiriya provides an opportunity to explore the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Aukana.

Priced at €107.50 per person, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve without upfront payment.

The tour lasts a full day and features a live English-speaking guide. Wheelchair accessibility is available.

Highlights include visiting sacred stupas, monasteries, and reservoirs in Anuradhapura, as well as the impressive Aukana Buddha statue carved into granite.

Lunch with local cuisine is included, and the tour ends with a serene sunset experience at Aukana.

Itinerary Highlights

The private day tour from Sigiriya starts with pickup from the town and a scenic drive through rolling hills and lush greenery.

The first stop is the ancient city of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guests will explore:

• The Jetavanaramaya Stupa, a massive brick structure over 120 meters tall

• The Abhayagiri Monastery, with its remnants of moonstones and carved pillars

• The Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba, a sacred stupa revered by Buddhists

• Serene reservoirs and tranquil monasteries that showcase the grandeur of ancient Anuradhapura

• The towering Aukana Buddha statue, carved directly into a granite rock face.

Cultural Experience

Immersing visitors in a living history book, the tour at Anuradhapura allows them to witness the grandeur of the ancient city’s sacred stupas, monasteries, and reservoirs.

Guests marvel at the massive brick stupa of Jetavanaramaya and discover the remnants of the Abhayagiri Monastery, including intricate moonstones and carved pillars.

Throughout the experience, they savor local delicacies like rice and curry, crispy hoppers, and an array of spices.

This culture offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich heritage, inviting travelers to reflect on the ancient energy and quiet contemplation.

Aukana Visit and Sunset

After exploring the ancient sites of Anuradhapura, the tour continues to the serene Aukana Buddha statue.

This massive granite carving stands over 40 feet tall, exuding a peaceful presence. As the tour group arrives, the sunset casts a warm glow, illuminating the statue’s serene expression.

• Witness the grandeur of the Aukana Buddha statue.

• Experience the tranquil atmosphere as the sun sets.

• Reflect on the ancient history and spiritual significance.

• Observe the expert craftsmanship of the carved granite.

• Appreciate the quiet contemplation at this sacred site.

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Inclusions and Important Information

This private day tour from Sigiriya includes bottled water, an air-conditioned vehicle, on-board WiFi, private transportation, a local lunch, and entrance tickets for the Aukana Rajamaha Viharaya and Anuradhapura Ancient City.

The tour also has some important guidelines to follow. Guests aren’t allowed to wear shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless shirts. Alcohol, drugs, and shoes indoors are prohibited. Touching the historical exhibits is also not permitted.

These rules help preserve the sites and ensure a respectful cultural experience for all travelers on this immersive journey through Sri Lanka’s ancient wonders.

Exploring Anuradhapura’s Ancient Wonders

As the tour winds through the rolling hills and lush greenery, the ancient city of Anuradhapura comes into view. This UNESCO World Heritage site immerses visitors in a living history book, showcasing the grandeur of Sri Lanka’s first capital.

Highlights include:

• Jetavanaramaya Stupa, an awe-inspiring brick structure towering over the landscape

• Remnants of the Abhayagiri Monastery, featuring intricate moonstones and carved pillars

• The serene Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba, one of the largest stupas in the world

• Exploration of ancient reservoirs and the sacred Bodhi tree, a direct descendant of the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment

• Insights into the advanced hydraulic engineering and urban planning of the ancient city.

Marveling at the Jetavanaramaya Stupa

Towering over the ancient city of Anuradhapura, the Jetavanaramaya Stupa commands awe and reverence. This colossal brick monument, once the world’s largest, stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the Sinhalese people.

Visitors can marvel at its sheer scale, which dwarfs nearby structures. The stupa’s intricate design and meticulous craftsmanship are equally impressive, with decorative brickwork and rhythmic recessions creating a visually striking edifice.

As one explores this ancient site, the Jetavanaramaya impresses with its grandeur, inviting contemplation of the rich history and spiritual significance that imbue this remarkable structure.

Uncovering the Abhayagiri Monastery Ruins

After marveling at the grandeur of the Jetavanaramaya Stupa, visitors can explore the captivating ruins of the Abhayagiri Monastery.

This once-thriving monastic complex offers a window into Sri Lanka’s ancient Buddhist heritage.

Visitors can discover:

• Remnants of elaborately carved stone pillars and moonstones

• Intricate architectural features like interlocking stone blocks

• Inscriptions and sculptures that provide insights into the monastery’s history

• Tranquil ponds and water features that reflect the serene ambiance

• A sense of the monastery’s former grandeur and the devotion of its inhabitants

Exploring the Abhayagiri Monastery ruins is a truly immersive cultural experience.

Common Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Meet My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to meet your preferences. You can work with the tour provider to adjust the itinerary, duration, and activities to suit your interests and needs.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Hidden Fees I Should Be Aware Of?

The tour price includes all necessary expenses like bottled water, transportation, lunch, and entrance fees. There are no hidden costs or additional fees you’ll need to pay for the tour.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Private Tour?

This is a private tour, so the group size is flexible. The tour description does not specify a maximum group size, allowing for a customized experience tailored to the traveler’s needs.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Tour?

No, you can’t bring your own food and snacks on the tour. The tour includes lunch, and bottled water is provided. Bringing outside food or drinks is not allowed as part of the tour experience.

Is There Any Flexibility in the Pickup and Drop-Off Locations?

The tour provides pickup and drop-off at Sigiriya, but there may be some flexibility in the locations. Travelers should check with the tour operator about any possible changes to the pickup and drop-off points before booking.

The Sum Up

This private day tour from Sigiriya offers a comprehensive exploration of Sri Lanka’s ancient heritage. Visitors will journey through the UNESCO-listed Anuradhapura, marvel at the Jetavanaramaya Stupa, and conclude with the awe-inspiring Aukana Buddha statue. With hassle-free transportation, local delicacies, and guided insights, travelers can enjoy the rich culture and history of this fascinating destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: