Anuradhapura

Administrative Information

• Province: North Central Province

• District: Anuradhapura District

• Administrative Type: Capital City of North Central Province / Municipal Council

• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Yes (Inscribed in 1982)

Geographic Information

• Coordinates: 8.3114 N, 80.4037 E

• Elevation: 81 meters (266 feet) above sea level

Main Attractions

• Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi: The sacred fig tree grown from a cutting of the historical Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment; it is the oldest historically authenticated human-planted tree in the world.

• Ruwanwelisaya: An architectural marvel and one of the world's tallest ancient monuments, this gleaming white stupa is deeply revered by pilgrims.

• Jetavanaramaya Stupa: A massive brick stupa that, when built in the 3rd century CE, was the third-tallest structure in the ancient world (behind only the Great Pyramids of Giza).

• Abhayagiri Monastery Complex: A vast monastic resort that was once a major international center for Buddhist philosophy, featuring the beautiful Twin Ponds (Kuttam Pokuna) and the Samadhi Buddha Statue.

• Isurumuniya Viharaya: A rock temple famous for its intricate 5th-century stone carvings, including the celebrated "Isurumuniya Lovers."