Anuradhapura

The Sri Maha Bodhi, located in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, is one of the most revered Buddhist sites in the world. This sacred fig tree (Ficus religiosa) is said to have grown from a sapling of the original Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India, under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, brought to Sri Lanka by Princess Sanghamitta in the 3rd century BCE. Protected and venerated for over 2,300 years, it is recognized as the oldest historically documented tree in existence. The site is a place of deep spiritual devotion, where thousands of pilgrims gather daily to offer flowers, light oil lamps, and meditate beneath its sacred branches. Enclosed within a series of golden railings and surrounded by ancient ruins, the Sri Maha Bodhi remains a timeless symbol of peace, faith, and the enduring connection between Sri Lanka and the Buddhist world.

Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, also known as the Mahathupa or the Great Stupa, is one of the most venerated monuments in Anuradhapura and a masterpiece of ancient Sinhalese architecture. Built in the 2nd century BCE by King Dutugemunu to enshrine sacred relics of the Buddha, the stupa stands as a symbol of unity and devotion in Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage. Its grand white dome, soaring 103 meters high, once ranked among the tallest structures of the ancient world. Surrounded by intricately carved elephant friezes and serene courtyards, Ruwanwelisaya radiates spiritual tranquility and architectural brilliance. Pilgrims and visitors alike are drawn to its serene atmosphere, especially at dusk when the stupa glows softly against the twilight sky. Revered as a sacred site for over two millennia, Ruwanwelisaya continues to embody the spiritual heart of Anuradhapura and the enduring faith of the Sri Lankan people.

The Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum, situated near the sacred city’s ancient ruins, offers a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich historical and cultural past. Established to preserve and display artifacts from the region’s archaeological sites, the museum houses an extensive collection of relics, including ancient coins, inscriptions, sculptures, pottery, and ritual objects dating back over two millennia. Visitors can explore displays that reveal the daily life, religious practices, and artistry of the Sinhalese kingdoms, gaining a deeper understanding of Anuradhapura’s significance as a political and spiritual center. Thoughtfully curated exhibits are accompanied by informative panels, making it accessible to both scholars and casual travelers. A visit to the Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum provides not only an educational experience but also a chance to connect with the island’s enduring legacy, offering context to the magnificent stupas, temples, and ruins that define this UNESCO World Heritage city.

Ritigala Forest Monastery, nestled within the dense jungles of Ritigala Mountain in northern Sri Lanka, is an ancient Buddhist complex steeped in mystery and spiritual significance. Believed to have been established between the 1st century BCE and 10th century CE, the monastery served as a retreat for monks seeking meditation and scholarly pursuits away from urban life. The site features stone-paved pathways, terraced foundations, and the remains of stupas and monastic residences, all ingeniously integrated into the natural landscape. Ritigala is also renowned for its unique flora, with rare medicinal plants and endemic species thriving in the protected forest reserve. Visitors can explore the serene ruins while following trails that lead to scenic viewpoints overlooking the surrounding plains. Combining historical intrigue, architectural ingenuity, and natural beauty, Ritigala Forest Monastery offers a contemplative escape into Sri Lanka’s ancient Buddhist heritage.