Anuradhapura Tour

Description

One of the longest surviving ancient capitals in the world, Anuradhapura rose to prominence in 4th century BCE & fell at the end of 10th century CE. In its 1500 years of existence, Anuradhapura was ruled by hundreds of kings & queens. 

The Sri Maha Bodhi a sapling of the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha was enlightened, is the oldest tree with a written history. It is one of the most sacred places for worship of Sri Lankan Buddhists. Built in 2nd century BCE, this 103 meter tall stupa is one of the tallest brick buildings in ancient world. Isurumuniya predates Buddhist civilization in Sri Lanka. Thought to be a ritual site for native people long before Buddhism arrived in Sri Lanka, the sculptures found here has more resemblance to some sculptures found in India.  

Samadhi statue of Abhayagiri complex s world famous for its craftsmanship. In fact, Jawaharlal Nehru once wrote to his daughter Indira Gandhi from his prison cell that, thinking of Samadhi statue of Anuradhapura gives him some peace of mind.  

The twin ponds of Anuradhapura belongs to Abhayagiri Monastic Complex & thought have been built in 6th century CE. Though, called twin ponds, scholars identify that the two ponds were built in different times. Both ponds are connected via underground duct, is fed by a reservoir 3 kilometers away through an underground canal.