Jetavanaramaya

Jetavanaramaya: Our most recommended tours and activities

Sri Lanka: 4-Day Tour Focusing on Cultural Triangle

Sri Lanka: 4-Day Tour Focusing on Cultural Triangle

This 4-day tour focuses on Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle, which encompasses the ancient cities and sacred sites of the country's North Central Province. This tour will cover the main UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the area, offering a deep dive into Sri Lanka's rich history and culture. The itinerary provides a comprehensive overview of Sri Lanka's ancient civilization and Buddhist heritage. It involves some early starts to beat the heat and crowds at popular sites. This tour covers the main sites of Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle: Anuradhapura: First ancient capital Polonnaruwa: Medieval capital Sigiriya: Ancient rock fortress Dambulla: Cave temples Kandy: Last royal capital Day 1: Anuradhapura Morning: Early departure from Colombo to Anuradhapura (approximately 4-5 hour drive). Afternoon: Explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site Visit key sites, including: Sri Maha Bodhi (sacred Bo tree) Ruwanwelisaya Stupa Jetavanaramaya Stupa Thuparamaya (oldest stupa in Sri Lanka) Lovamahapaya (Brazen Palace) Twin Pond Afternoon: Visit Mihintale, the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Overnight stay in Anuradhapura Day 2: Polonnaruwa and Minneriya Morning: Drive to Polonnaruwa (about 1.5-hour drive) Explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Key sites include: Royal Palace complex Quadrangle Gal Vihara (Buddha statues) Lankathilaka Image House Afternoon: Tour around Polonnaruwa's countryside and smaller ruins Drive to Minneriya National Park (about 30 minutes) Jeep safari in Minneriya, famous for its large elephant gatherings Evening: Drive to Sigiriya/Dambulla area for overnight stay Day 3: Sigiriya and Dambulla Early Morning: Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress (Lion Rock) for sunrise Explore the ancient frescoes, mirror wall, and ruins atop the rock Late Morning/Afternoon: Visit Dambulla Cave Temple, a vast, isolated rock mass Explore the five caves with their Buddhist mural paintings and statues Evening: Optional visit to a local village for a traditional cooking demonstration and dinner. Overnight stay in Kandy Day 4: Kandy Morning: Drive to Kandy (about 2.5-hour drive) En route, visit a spice garden to learn about Sri Lankan spices and Ayurvedic medicine Afternoon: Explore the Sacred City of Kandy, the last capital of Sri Lanka's ancient kings Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, which houses Buddha's sacred tooth relic Stroll around Kandy Lake Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya Depart for Colombo or your next destination

Anuradhapura & Aukana: Private Day Tour From Sigiriya

Anuradhapura & Aukana: Private Day Tour From Sigiriya

Our journey begins as we leave the picturesque city of Sigiriya behind. The scenic drive through rolling hills and lush greenery sets the tone for the day. Arriving in Anuradhapura, we step into a living history book. Explore the sprawling ruins—the Jetavanaramaya Stupa, the Abhayagiri Monastery, and the Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba. Imagine the bustling streets, the chants of monks, and the devotion that once filled these sacred grounds. Stand before the Jetavanaramaya—a massive brick stupa that once held relics of the Buddha. Its sheer size is awe-inspiring. As you walk around its base, feel the reverence that has endured for centuries. Explore the remnants of Abhayagiri—a monastic complex that flourished in ancient times. Admire the moonstones, the intricately carved pillars, and the tranquil ponds. It’s a glimpse into the scholarly and spiritual life of the past. We’ll pause for a delightful lunch: sample local delicacies—rice and curry, crispy hoppers, and aromatic spices. The flavors tell stories of generations. Our journey continues to Aukana, where a marvel awaits—a standing Buddha statue carved into a granite rock face. The serene expression, the flowing robes—it’s a testament to ancient craftsmanship and devotion. Arrive at Aukana in time for sunset. Watch as the golden light bathes the Buddha statue. The stillness, the ancient energy—it’s a moment of quiet contemplation. As darkness settles, we’ll journey back to Sigiriya. Reflect on the wonders witnessed—the art, the spirituality, and the timeless beauty etched in stone. Join us on this immersive journey, where the past whispers and the present listens.

From Kandy: Anuradhapura Day Trip with Lunch

From Kandy: Anuradhapura Day Trip with Lunch

Embark on a day trip to Anuradhapura, one of Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This archaeological tour will take you through the historic ruins of this sacred city, which was the center of Sri Lankan civilization for over a millennium. Explore majestic stupas, ancient temples, royal palaces, and the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree. Depart from your hotel in Kandy early in the morning for a scenic 3.5 to 4-hour drive to Anuradhapura. Upon arrival, start your tour with a visit to the city’s historical landmarks. Begin your tour at the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, the sacred fig tree said to have grown from the cutting of the tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. This is one of the most revered religious sites in Sri Lanka. Visit the impressive Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, one of the tallest and most revered stupas in Sri Lanka, built by King Dutugemunu. Its towering structure and peaceful surroundings make it a highlight of the archaeological site. Next, visit the Jetavanaramaya, once one of the tallest brick structures in the world and an architectural marvel. It was built by King Mahasena in the 3rd century and is a significant religious site. Explore the Abhayagiri Monastery, a sprawling ancient complex that once housed thousands of monks. Visit the Abhayagiri Museum to learn more about the history and significance of the monastery. Enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan lunch at a local restaurant, featuring dishes like rice and curry or hoppers. Visit the Royal Palace, where the ancient kings of Anuradhapura resided. Explore the remnants of the palace and its associated structures, including Kuttam Pokuna (the Twin Ponds) and Samadhi Buddha Statue. Visit the Isurumuniya Temple, known for its beautiful rock carvings, including the famous Isurumuniya Lovers sculpture. After a day filled with history and culture, begin your journey back to Kandy, arriving around 7:00 PM.

From Anuradhapura: Ancient City of Anuradhapura by Bike

From Anuradhapura: Ancient City of Anuradhapura by Bike

08.00 am: Embark on a bike adventure as you are picked up from your Anuradhapura hotel. 08.30 am: Begin your city tour of the ancient city of Anuradhapura, a Unesco World Heritage Site and one of the world's oldest inhabited towns. Immerse yourself in the rich history and significance of Anuradhapura, which was once the center of Theravada Buddhism. Explore the well-preserved historical ruins dating from the centuries between the 4th century BC and the 11th century AD. During this comprehensive city tour, visit prominent relic chambers such as Ruwanveliseya, Abhayagiriya, and Jetavanaramaya, known for being the world's largest man-made brick buildings. Admire the Moonstone and Guard Stones, and explore the iconic landmarks of Thuparama and Lankaramaya Dagobas, the Brazen Palace, Twin Ponds, Samadhi Buddha Statue, and the remarkable rock carvings at Isurumuniya Temple. Find solace and tranquility under the shade of the sacred 'Sri Maha Bodhi' tree, believed to have grown from a branch of the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment 2500 years ago. The 'Sri Maha Bodhi' is revered as the world's oldest human-planted tree. 11.30 am: At the completion of your city tour, return to your hotel in Anuradhapura, reflecting on the fascinating history and cultural heritage you have experienced.

Anuradhapura & Aukana: Private Day Tour From Habarana

Anuradhapura & Aukana: Private Day Tour From Habarana

Our journey begins as we leave the picturesque city of Habarana behind. The scenic drive through rolling hills and lush greenery sets the tone for the day. Arriving in Anuradhapura, we step into a living history book. Explore the sprawling ruins—the Jetavanaramaya Stupa, the Abhayagiri Monastery, and the Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba. Imagine the bustling streets, the chants of monks, and the devotion that once filled these sacred grounds. Stand before the Jetavanaramaya—a massive brick stupa that once held relics of the Buddha. Its sheer size is awe-inspiring. As you walk around its base, feel the reverence that has endured for centuries. Explore the remnants of Abhayagiri—a monastic complex that flourished in ancient times. Admire the moonstones, the intricately carved pillars, and the tranquil ponds. It’s a glimpse into the scholarly and spiritual life of the past. We’ll pause for a delightful lunch: sample local delicacies—rice and curry, crispy hoppers, and aromatic spices. The flavors tell stories of generations. Our journey continues to Aukana, where a marvel awaits—a standing Buddha statue carved into a granite rock face. The serene expression, the flowing robes—it’s a testament to ancient craftsmanship and devotion. Arrive at Aukana in time for sunset. Watch as the golden light bathes the Buddha statue. The stillness, the ancient energy—it’s a moment of quiet contemplation. As darkness settles, we’ll journey back to Habarana. Reflect on the wonders witnessed—the art, the spirituality, and the timeless beauty etched in stone. Join us on this immersive journey, where the past whispers and the present listens.

2 Day tour from Kandy: Sigiriya Polannaruwa and Anuradhapura

2 Day tour from Kandy: Sigiriya Polannaruwa and Anuradhapura

Day 1: Kandy to Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa At around 08.00am start with a pick-up from Kandy in the morning, heading towards Sigiriya. On the way, visit the famous Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient Buddhist murals and statues within five stunning caves. After exploring Dambulla, continue your journey to Sigiriya, where you will climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. The climb takes you through ancient frescoes, terraces, and gardens, leading to breathtaking views from the summit. Afterward, travel to Polonnaruwa for your overnight stay. Day 2: Explore Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura, then Drop-off in Kandy On the second day, after breakfast at your hotel, explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, another UNESCO World Heritage site. This site is known for its well-preserved ruins, including the Royal Palace, Gal Vihara's stunning Buddha statues, and the magnificent Quadrangle. After exploring Polonnaruwa, head to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka's first ancient capital. Here, visit the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, the towering Ruwanwelisaya stupa, Jetavanaramaya, and other important historical sites. After finishing your tour of Anuradhapura, begin your journey to Kandy, where the tour concludes with a drop-off in the evening.

8 activities found

Traveling now? See what’s available for your dates

Top activities in Anuradhapura

241 activities found
Sort by:
Recommended

Top Attractions in Anuradhapura

Experiences in Jetavanaramaya

Tours in Sri Lanka

Things to do in Sri Lanka

Other Sightseeing Options in Jetavanaramaya

Want to discover all there is to do in Jetavanaramaya? Click here for a full list.