Anuradhapura and Mihintale are two of Sri Lanka‘s most revered ancient cities: rich with history, sacred sites, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Anuradhapura was the first capital of ancient Sri Lanka and is famed for its vast monastic ruins, towering dagobas, and sacred Bodhi Tree. At the same time, nearby Mihintale is considered the birthplace of Buddhism on the island, with hilltop shrines and panoramic views. This Anuradhapura & Mihintale Travel Guide will help you plan your visit with top sights and practical tips.
Anuradhapura lies in the center-north of Sri Lanka. The city was inhabited for 12 centuries before the kings moved the capital to Polonnaruwa and then Colombo. Anuradhapura is now a city where you can find the remains of the once-great city. But before we discover Anuradhapura, we’ll explore Mihintale first.
What we didn’t know in advance was that it was a full moon in June. When it’s a full moon in June, the Poson Poya festival is held. This festival celebrates the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BC. The festival is the most important full moon holiday in Sri Lanka and the second most important holiday in Buddhism. The festival is celebrated throughout the country, but the most important places are Mihintale and Anuradhapura, the places we were just going to visit.
Where to stay in Anuradhapura?
We stayed in the Heladiv Hotel with an amazing swimming pool to cool off after a long day of walking in the heat! Other accommodations, recommended by fellow travelers we met on our trip, are Arachchi Heritage and Breedon Residence Hotel.
Mihintale
We arrived in Mihintale, and we were the only tourists there. The place was filled with locals visiting the sacred place. The people were smiling and looking at us (already during the whole trip, but now it was just everyone who was looking at us). Mihintale lies on a small mountain, so our first stop was the stupa on top of the mountain.
Aradhana Gala
Aradhana Gala is a rock where the Arahath Mahinda landed from the air. This is the place where King Devanampiya Tissa and the Buddhist monk Mahinda met and where Mahinda introduced Buddhism to the King and Sri Lanka. We did not climb the rock due to the queue, warm climate, and the hot stones. But you have a nice view of it from the stupa.
Anuradhapura
After Mihintale, we went to grab lunch and headed to Anuradhapura, which was also explored by locals. Once again, we were the only tourists!
1) Jetavanaramaya Dagoba
Our first stop is at the Jetavanaramaya Dagoba. This stupa is 122 meters high and was once the third largest structure in the world (with the 2 pyramids of Gizeh being number 1 and 2).
2) Abhayagiri Dagoba
This dagoba was built with red-brownish bricks. The stupa used to be 113 meters high but is now 84 meters high.
3) Kuttam Pokuna
Anuradhapura has 2 well-preserved pools where monks used to wash in or drink from. The first pool was made for drinking water, and the rest went into the second pool, where monks could bathe. Just incredible that it is still in perfect shape!
4) Buddha Samadhi
When driving in the sacred city, you can find the Buddha Samadhi behind a fence. There used to be 4 statues of this Buddha, but the other 3 were damaged by pillagers who took out the blue gems that were located in the eyes of the statue.
5) Elephant Pond
Take a quick stop at the Elephant Pond. This pond was not for elephants to bathe in, but was a water reservoir. It is twice the size of a soccer field.
6) Abhayagiri Monastery
In the ruins of Abhayagiri Monastery, you’ll find a moonstone in perfect shape. This moonstone can also be seen in Polonnaruwa, but without the cow.
7) Ruwanwelisaya
Our last stupa for the day is the Ruwanwelisaya. This stupa is considered very sacred to many Buddhists because it houses many relics. This stupa is one of the world’s tallest ancient monuments. Take a walk around the stupa and just enjoy it. Make sure to also check the gem on top of the stupa!
8) Lovamahapaya
When walking towards the Sri Maha Bodhi, you’ll pass the Lovamahapaya. This building is known as the Brazen Palace because the roof was covered with bronze tiles.
9) Sri Maha Bodhi
Our last stop today is the Sri Maha Bodhi. The Sri Maha Bodhi is a sacred fig tree that is worshiped. The Indian Emperor gave the tree to the first Buddhist King of Sri Lanka. Buddhists find this tree to be the oldest historical tree in the world, and every year, pilgrims come to the tree to worship it.
What should I pack for Sri Lanka?
Light, breathable clothing is best due to the tropical climate. When visiting temples, shoulders and knees should be covered. Make sure to bring these top 5 items on your trip to Sri Lanka:
- Snorkel set: for seeing all the fish and coral in the sea
- Camera: to take amazing photos of your trip!
- Sunscreen: don’t get sunburned when visiting Egyptian temples!
- Microfiber towel: compact towel to take everywhere with you & that dries quickly!
- Sturdy Hiking shoes: to make amazing hikes
Use my ultimate packing list to have everything in your luggage for your trip
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions Anuradhapura & Mihintale
👀 Can you visit both Anuradhapura and Mihintale in one day?
Yes, many travelers do a combined day trip since the sites are close to each other.
👚 What should I wear when visiting Anuradhapura and Mihintale?
Shoulders and knees should be covered by both men and women.