From Negombo: Full-Day Unesco City of Anuradhapura Trip

Set out on a captivating journey from Negombo to the UNESCO-protected city of Anuradhapura. This full-day excursion offers a deep dive into Sri Lanka’s ancient past, showcasing iconic sites rich in history and culture. Explore the vestiges of the island’s former capital, guided by a local expert who’ll illuminate the fascinating ruins and landmarks. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an immersive cultural experience, this trip promises to leave you spellbound.

Key Points

• A full-day guided tour to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Anuradhapura from Negombo, priced at $126 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The 12-hour trip includes a 3.5-hour drive each way, a 3.5-hour walking tour of key historical landmarks, and free time for sightseeing and dining.
• Highlights of the tour include visiting Mihintale, where Buddhism was introduced, the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree, and the Isurumuniya rock temple.
• The tour provides a deep dive into Anuradhapura’s rich cultural and archaeological significance, with an English-speaking guide leading the way.
• Comfortable attire, sun protection, and proper dress for temple visits are recommended for this moderately paced excursion.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

Although this full-day UNESCO City of Anuradhapura trip is priced from $140.00, it’s now available for $126.00 per person.

The 12-hour tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later.

Pickup is from Avengard Hotels, with transportation provided via car for the 3.5-hour drive to Anuradhapura and 4-hour return.

The itinerary includes a guided tour, free time, sightseeing, and 3.5 hours of walking. Breakfast and lunch at local restaurants are available for an additional fee.

Itinerary and Transportation

The trip departs from Avengard Hotels, where travelers are picked up for the 3.5-hour drive to Anuradhapura.

Travelers are picked up from Avengard Hotels for the 3.5-hour drive to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Anuradhapura.

During the journey, passengers can enjoy the scenic countryside before arriving at the UNESCO World Heritage site.

Upon reaching Anuradhapura, a local guide leads a 3.5-hour walking tour, allowing visitors to explore the city’s key historical landmarks.

After the guided tour, travelers have free time for further sightseeing and lunch at local restaurants.

The return trip to Avengard Hotels takes approximately 4 hours, completing the full-day excursion to Anuradhapura.

Highlights and Attractions

Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s first kingdom, is the focal point of this full-day UNESCO City tour.

Visitors will explore the key sites, including Mihintale, where Buddhism was introduced to the island, and the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred tree grown from the original tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.

The Isurumuniya rock temple and the massive Ruwanweliseya stupa are other highlights.

Wandering the ruins of the ancient Brazen Palace and seeing the 2,000-year-old Sri Maha Bodhi offer insight into Sri Lanka’s rich history.

This comprehensive tour provides a deep dive into Anuradhapura’s remarkable cultural and archaeological significance.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, bottled water, all entrance fees, and a local guide to accompany the group.

However, any food or drink not specified, as well as gratuities, are excluded from the tour price.

It’s important to note that this tour may not be suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, or wheelchair users due to the moderate walking involved.

Visitors should wear comfortable shoes, bring sunglasses and a sun hat, and adhere to the dress code of removing footwear and covering shoulders and knees when visiting temples.

More Great Tours Nearby

Key Site 1: Mihintale

Mihintale is the first stop on the UNESCO City of Anuradhapura tour. This ancient site is where Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BC.

Visitors can explore the steps leading up the mountain, the cave dwellings, and the Kantaka Cetiya stupa. The ruins include the Aradhana Gala, an impressive boulder with ancient inscriptions.

Tourists will learn about the historical significance of Mihintale as the birthplace of Buddhism in the country. The serene hilltop offers panoramic views, making it a picturesque start to the day’s sightseeing adventure.

Key Site 2: Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi

The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is the second stop on the UNESCO City of Anuradhapura tour. This sacred fig tree is believed to be the oldest living tree in the world, grown from a sapling of the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. Pilgrims flock to this revered site to honor the tree and worship. The significance of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is evident in the following details:

| Fact | Value |

| — | — |

| Age | Over 2,000 years old |

| Origin | Grown from a sapling of the original Bodhi tree |

| Significance | Represents the site of Buddha’s enlightenment |

| Purpose | Attracts Buddhist pilgrims and devotees |

Key Site 3: Isurumuniya

After exploring the revered Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, the tour moves on to the ancient site of Isurumuniya.

This 2nd-century BC rock temple features exquisite rock carvings, including the famous "Lovers" statue. Visitors can admire the intricate artistry and learn about the temple’s significance as an important archaeological site.

The tranquil setting with a small pond adds to the serene atmosphere. Guests have time to wander the grounds, take photos, and soak in the historic ambiance before continuing the journey through Anuradhapura’s UNESCO-listed wonders.

Important Information and Recommendations

Although not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, or wheelchair users, this full-day UNESCO City of Anuradhapura trip offers a wealth of historical and cultural experiences. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat. In temples, it’s important to remove footwear and hat, and cover shoulders and knees. Moderate walking is involved, so checking weather conditions is recommended. A valid passport is required. To ensure a successful trip, consider the following recommendations:

| Recommendations | Details |

| — | — |

| Comfortable Attire | Wear shoes, sunglasses, sun hat |

| Temple Etiquette | Remove footwear and hat, cover shoulders and knees |

| Weather Conditions | Check before trip |

| Documentation | Valid passport required |

| Physical Ability | Moderate walking involved |

Common Questions

Can I Take Photos Inside the Temples?

Yes, visitors can take photos inside the temples, but they should do so respectfully and avoid disrupting religious activities. Some temples may have restrictions on photography, so it’s best to follow the guidance of the local guide.

Do I Need Any Special Permits or Paperwork?

No special permits or paperwork are required. However, visitors must remove their shoes and cover their shoulders and knees when entering temples. Photography is generally allowed, but it’s best to check with the local guide for any restrictions.

Will I Have Access to ATMS and Currency Exchange?

ATMs and currency exchange services are available in Anuradhapura, though visitors should ensure they have sufficient local currency before the trip. It’s recommended to exchange money prior to the tour or utilize ATMs in the city center.

Is There a Dress Code for Visiting the Sites?

There’s a dress code for visiting the sites. Visitors must remove their footwear and hats, and cover their shoulders and knees when entering the temples.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Sites?

Visitors can purchase souvenirs at the sites in Anuradhapura. There are numerous local craft stalls and shops selling traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts, jewelry, and other mementos of the historic UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Sum Up

Set out on a full-day trip from Negombo to the UNESCO City of Anuradhapura to explore Sri Lanka’s ancient capital. The tour includes a scenic drive, guided walking tour of iconic sites, and ample free time for sightseeing. Enjoy the fascinating ruins and landmarks that make Anuradhapura a must-visit destination, guided by a local expert.

You can check availability for your dates here: