Set out on a captivating private day tour from Dambulla to the sacred city of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 8.5-hour journey explores the ancient ruins, including the magnificent Jetavanarama stupa and the revered Sri Maha Bodhi tree. With an English-speaking guide and transportation, you’ll enjoy a seamless experience before concluding your adventure at the historic Mihintale, where Buddhism’s roots were established in Sri Lanka. What secrets will this ancient city reveal?
Key Points
- A private day trip from Dambulla to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Anuradhapura, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka with rich cultural heritage.
- Highlights include visiting the impressive Jetavanarama, the oldest authenticated Sri Maha Bodhi tree, and the grand ruins of Abhayagiri Monastery.
- Includes an English-speaking guide, pickup from accommodations, air-conditioned transportation, and bottled water, with a lunch break at the traveler’s expense.
- After Anuradhapura, visit Mihintale, the historic meeting site between the Buddhist monk Mahinda and King Devanampiyatissa.
- The tour duration is approximately 8.5 hours, priced from $80 per person.
Tour Overview
The tour offers a private day trip from Dambulla to the ancient city of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Priced from $80 per person, the 8.5-hour tour includes an English-speaking guide and pickup from accommodations within 5 km of central Dambulla.
Highlights include visiting significant landmarks like Jetavanarama, Sri Maha Bodhi, and Abhayagiri Monastery. There’s a lunch break at noon, and the tour also visits Mihintale, the historic meeting site between a Buddhist monk and a king.
Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, and bottled water is included. Hotel pickup and drop-off are also part of the package.
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Itinerary Highlights
The tour departs at 8:00 AM from your hotel, providing the opportunity to explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visitors will see significant landmarks like Jetavanarama, Sri Maha Bodhi, and Abhayagiri Monastery.
At noon, there’s a lunch break at the traveler’s own expense.
The tour then heads to Mihintale, the site of the historic meeting between Buddhist monk Mahinda and King Devanampiyatissa.
Anuradhapura: Exploring the Ancient City
Anuradhapura, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka, stands as a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts an array of significant landmarks. Visitors can explore the massive Jetavanarama stupa, marvel at the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, and wander through the serene Abhayagiri Monastery. The city’s sacred sites offer a glimpse into the island’s Buddhist history and traditions.
| Landmark | Significance | Highlights |
| — | — | — |
| Jetavanarama | Largest brick stupa in the world | Impressive architectural feat |
| Sri Maha Bodhi | Tree grown from a sapling of the original Bodhi tree in India | Considered the oldest historically authenticated tree in the world |
| Abhayagiri Monastery | Renowned ancient Buddhist monastery | Ruins showcase the grandeur of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural past |
Significant Landmarks in Anuradhapura
Although Anuradhapura boasts an array of significant landmarks, three sites stand out as must-see destinations for visitors.
The Jetavanarama, a massive ancient stupa, impresses with its sheer size and architectural grandeur.
Nearby, the Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree, is revered as the oldest planted tree in the world.
Plus, the Abhayagiri Monastery, a vast monastic complex, showcases the city’s rich Buddhist heritage.
These iconic landmarks offer a window into Anuradhapura’s glorious past, allowing visitors to enjoy the city’s timeless spiritual and cultural significance.
More Great Tours NearbyLunch Break
After exploring the captivating landmarks of Anuradhapura, the tour takes a lunch break at 12:00 PM. Travelers have the opportunity to enjoy a local Sri Lankan meal at their own expense. The guide can recommend nearby restaurants that offer authentic cuisine. This break allows guests to refuel and recharge before continuing the journey.
| Option | Cost |
| — | — |
| Local Curry Lunch | $8-$12 |
| Vegetarian Meal | $6-$10 |
| Seafood Platter | $12-$18 |
| Soft Drink | $1-$2 |
The lunch break provides a chance to soak in the cultural ambiance before heading to the next destination, Mihintale.
Mihintale: The Historic Meeting
Following the tour’s lunch break, the journey continues to Mihintale, the site of a historic meeting between the Buddhist monk Mahinda and King Devanampiyatissa.
This sacred location is significant as it marks the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka. Visitors can explore:
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The Mihintale Mountain, where the meeting took place.
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The Ambasthala Dagoba, a stupa built to commemorate the event.
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The Mahinda Seya, a shrine dedicated to the Buddhist monk.
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The Kantaka Cetiya, a rock-cut stairway leading to the summit.
The tour provides an opportunity to explore this pivotal moment in Sri Lanka’s rich religious history.
Return to Dambulla
With the exploration of Mihintale complete, the tour group heads back to Dambulla.
Along the way, the guide points out the scenic countryside, explaining the local agriculture and customs.
Arriving in Dambulla around 4:30 PM, the group is dropped off at their respective hotels.
Arriving in Dambulla around 4:30 PM, the group is dropped off at their respective hotels to rest and reflect on the day’s adventures.
The tour has provided a comprehensive look at the ancient city of Anuradhapura and the historic meeting at Mihintale.
Guests have the rest of the evening to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures before perhaps exploring Dambulla’s own ancient cave temples on their own.
The private day tour has been a fulfilling and enlightening experience.
What to Bring
Travelers should bring their passport or ID card to gain entry to the historic sites on the tour.
Other essential items include:
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Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes to navigate the uneven terrain at the ancient ruins.
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Sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen to protect against the hot, tropical sun.
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A light jacket or sweater, as the temperature can be cooler in the mornings and evenings.
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Any snacks or a packed breakfast, in case the hotel doesn’t provide one.
Packing these items will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable tour experience at the sacred city of Anuradhapura.
Common Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Interests?
Yes, the tour can be customized to suit your interests. The tour provider allows for flexibility in the itinerary to accommodate your preferences and ensure you have an enjoyable and personalized experience.
Are There Any Additional Fees for Activities or Entrance Tickets?
The tour includes entry fees to the UNESCO World Heritage sites, but any additional activities or services not mentioned in the itinerary may incur extra costs. Travelers should confirm any optional add-ons and their associated fees with the tour operator.
Can the Tour Be Extended to Visit Other Nearby Sites?
Yes, the tour can be extended to visit other nearby sites for an additional fee. The tour operator can customize the itinerary to include visits to other attractions like Mihintale or Ritigala upon request.
Is It Possible to Book a Private Tour With a Smaller Group?
Yes, it’s possible to book a private tour with a smaller group. The tour operator offers private tours with flexible group sizes, allowing travelers to personalize their experience and explore the ancient city at their own pace.
What Happens in Case of Inclement Weather During the Tour?
In case of inclement weather, the tour provider will adjust the itinerary and activities as needed to ensure the safety and comfort of guests. They’ll work closely with the group to provide the best possible experience given the weather conditions.
The Sum Up
This captivating private day tour from Dambulla to the sacred city of Anuradhapura and historic Mihintale offers a unique opportunity to take in Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage. With an expert guide, visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed ancient ruins, iconic landmarks, and the birthplace of Buddhism in the country, all while enjoying seamless transportation and a hassle-free experience.
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