Anuradhapura

I have travelled extensively across Asia but nothing quite prepared me for Anuradhapura. Standing at the base of the Jetavanaramaya stupa and realising it was built over 2,000 years ago left me completely speechless. The scale of everything here is simply staggering — the palaces, the reservoirs, the sacred temples. It is hard to believe that a civilisation this advanced existed so long ago. I hired a bicycle to explore the ruins at my own pace and it was the perfect way to take it all in. If you are visiting Sri Lanka and skipping Anuradhapura, you are making a serious mistake.

Thomas H

Germany

Anuradhapura is unlike anywhere I have ever been. There is a spiritual energy here that is difficult to put into words. Watching devoted pilgrims offer flowers and prayers at the Sri Maha Bodhi — a tree that has stood for over 2,000 years — was one of the most humbling experiences of my life. The ancient stupas glowing white against the blue sky are breathtaking at every turn. I stayed two nights and still felt I had not seen enough. This is not just a tourist destination — it is a living, breathing sacred city that deserves every bit of your time and respect.

Amelia W

Canada

As someone with a deep interest in ancient history, Anuradhapura was the highlight of my entire Sri Lanka itinerary. The sheer number of well preserved ruins, restored temples, and sacred sites packed into one city is extraordinary. The Ruwanwelisaya Stupa at sunset was a moment I will carry with me forever. I visited during the Poson Poya festival and the atmosphere was electric — thousands of white clad pilgrims, oil lamps lining every path, and the sound of chanting filling the air. A truly once in a lifetime experience that I cannot recommend highly enough.

Rohan S

Singapore