Discover the Archaeological Wonders of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Exploring ancient archaeological wonders is one of the most fun things to do on a tour. These archaeological wonders are the last remnants of an ancient civilization that had its way of life. Learning about such ancient civilizations is interesting to many tourists across the world.
So, tourists look for a country that has a rich history where they can explore such archaeological wonders. Among the many countries of the world that have preserved these archaeological wonders, Sri Lanka is among the most popular for its rich history.
Best Archaeological Wonders In Anuradhapura
Many cultures, including Buddhism, have resided in Sri Lanka in the past, and the archaeological remnants of their civilization stand strong to this day. Among the many places in Sri Lanka that house such archaeological wonders, the city of Anuradhapura is a prime tourist destination for history enthusiasts, housing many archaeological wonders from the past.
So, keep reading to discover the archaeological wonders of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
Climb to the Peak of Mihintale
One of the first places that historical tourists will be able to explore upon reaching Anuradhapura is the mountain Mihintale. This mountain is a sacred religious site for Buddhist culture and is believed to be the origin of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Its history dates back to the 3rd century B.C. when the great ruler Ashoka sent his son to introduce Buddhism to Sri Lanka.
As a result, during your climb of around 1,840 steps to the mountaintop, you will find plenty of old temples and ritual sites where people offer their prayers. Once you reach the summit, you can enjoy the beautiful views of the open sky and the surrounding greenery that is visible from this height.
Pay a Visit to Isurumuniya
If you are a tourist who is a fan of rock carvings, then a visit to the Isurumuniya temple is a must-visit place for you. This is a temple complex that is a popular tourist destination among both local and foreign visitors.
Isurumuniya is most famous for its intricate carvings that have been made on certain rocks in the temple complex and a statue of a couple embracing each other in love. There is also a pond that has several lotus flowers growing in it which combined with the other features of this place, makes it a very calming and spiritually enriching experience.
Isurumuniya is a small temple complex that does not take a lot of time to explore so try to incorporate a visit to this place in your tour plan.
Explore the Brazen Palace
The Brazen Palace is among the most popular tourist destinations of Anuradhapura. Also known as Lovamahapaya is a palace created to act as a residence for Buddhist monks who gather in this place to recite Pirith on Poya or a full moon day. This place is believed to have been able to house around 3000 monks at the time when it was originally created.
This palace has been estimated to be around 2000 years old and the credit of its creation is attributed to King Dutugamunu in the 2nd century B.C. Lovamahapaya is most well known for its stone columns that have been erected within the palace grounds. There are around 1600 stone columns present in the Brazen palace.
Immerse Yourself in the History of Ruwanweliseya
Tourists who wish to immerse themselves in the rich history of Sri Lanka and one of the most prestigious heritage sites of Anuradhapura will find Ruwanweliseya a perfect place to visit. Ruwanweliseya is the largest stupa in Sri Lanka and is among its most beautiful cultural sites.
This stupa is also known as the Maha Stupa and was created by King Dutugamunu who is a respected hero of the country's history.
Due to its cultural importance to the history of Sri Lanka, many renovations have been made by the government to preserve this grand stupa with decorations being made in most corners of this place along with several changes to both the interior and exterior of the palace complex. If you are a history enthusiast looking to learn about the history of Sri Lanka, you will love this place.
Delve Deep into the Cultural History of Jetavanarama
Tourists who wish to delve deep into the history and cultural influences of Buddhism in Sri Lanka will find a lot to learn when visiting the Jetavanarama monastery. This monastery is significant in Buddhist culture as it is believed that a part of the belt worn by Buddha himself is tied to this place and is being preserved to this day.
Historically, this place is very significant as it is considered to be the third largest monument from the ancient world and one of the largest monasteries in Sri Lanka. If you are a tourist who wishes to immerse themselves in the ways of Buddhism, Jetavanarama monastery is a must-visit place for you.
Learn About the Daily Lives of a Monk at Jayanthi Viharaya
Another one of Sri Lanka's most culturally significant structures that still stands to this day is Jayanthi Viharaya temple. This temple is located within the main city of Anuradhapura and in the past was the royal capital of Sri Lanka. Nowadays, this temple serves as a school and a Buddhist temple where Buddhist monks perform their regular duties.
Tourists who wish to learn more about the lives of monks or the many teachings of Buddha in the Buddhist culture will find that in Jayanthi Viharaya.
Discover the Intricate Detailing of the Samadhi Buddha Statue
The Samadhi Buddha Statue is among the most significant archaeological sites in Sri Lanka. This statue is a statue showcasing the lord of Buddhist culture Buddha in a meditating posture or Samadhi. The posture struck by Buddha in this statue is believed to signify balance and concentration which are needed for attaining enlightenment.
This statue has been built with expert-level craftsmanship with intricate detailing being performed on each part of the statue, making it among the most well-known archaeological wonders in Anuradhapura.
Cluck Pictures Around the Abhayagiri Monastery
Abhayagiri monastery is an old symbol of a great victory that Sri Lanka had in its distant past. During the 2nd Century BCE, the Cholas invaded Sri Lanka to capture Anuradhapura from King Valagamba who was overthrown in their initial invasion. However, 14 years later, King Valagamba returned and defeated the Cholas to retake his control over Anuradhapura.
In honor of his great victory, the King created the Abhayagiri Monastery which even to this day, retains its beauty and glow. This place is also famous for being the second largest stupa in Anuradhapura and was built over the footprints of Gautam Buddha himself. There are also 2 ponds near the complex which are a serene site to behold.
If you wish to take some nice pictures during your trip to Anuradhapura, the Abhayagiri Monastery is a great archaeological wonder for you.
Witness the Start of Buddhism in Sri Lanka at Thuparama
Thuparama is by far one of the most important archaeological sites not just in Anuradhapura but the entire island country. The reason behind this major significance comes from the fact that this stupa is the oldest stupa present in Sri Lanka and is said to have been created right after Buddhism was introduced in Sri Lanka.
To preserve this place, many changes have been made to it over centuries including its shape, color, and other structures within the site. In the modern day, the government of Sri Lanka takes personal responsibility in managing this place and it is one of the most important religious sites for Buddhist followers from all around the world.
If you wish to visit Anuradhapura to observe the archaeological wonders of Sri Lanka, start by applying for your Sri Lanka tourist e-visa and book all your reservations in advance.
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Pearl of the Indian Ocean another name used for the Sri Lankan Island as it is located in the Indian Ocean. Before we begin to discuss places and know about the best seasons to visit, it is better to know about the requirements to visit Sri Lanka. Discover more at Best Time and Season to Visit Sri Lanka.
Check your eligibility for Sri Lanka eTA and apply for Sri Lanka e-Visa 3 days in advance of your flight. Citizens from China, Canada, Germany, Japan and Australia can apply online for Sri Lanka e-Visa.