Things to do in Anuradhapura

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Koray Koymen
Photo by Koray Koymen
Photo by Eva Johnson
Photo by Eva Johnson
Photo by Ii Rosna
Photo by Ii Rosna
Photo by Botak Jon
Photo by Botak Jon
Photo by Koray Koymen
Photo by Koray Koymen

Explore thousands of activities with free cancellation and no added fees.

Design your experience with airport transfers, excursions, day tours & more.

Get an insider's look in what to book before you travel.

What to do in Anuradhapura

Popular places to visit

Ruwanwelisaya

Ruwanwelisaya

You can find out about the history of Anuradhapura when you stop by Ruwanwelisaya. You can seek out the cycling trails while in the area.

Ruwanwelisaya
Sri Maha Bodhi

Sri Maha Bodhi

Sri Maha Bodhi is just one of the places to see in Anuradhapura, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? You can seek out the cycling trails while in the area.

Sri Maha Bodhi
Abhayagiri Dagoba

Abhayagiri Dagoba

Learn about the local history of Anuradhapura when you spend time at Abhayagiri Dagoba. You can seek out the cycling trails while in the area.

Abhayagiri Dagoba
Kuttam Pokuna

Kuttam Pokuna

Learn about the local history of Anuradhapura when you spend time at Kuttam Pokuna. You can seek out the cycling trails while in the area.

Kuttam Pokuna
Thuparama Dagoba

Thuparama Dagoba

Learn about the local history of Anuradhapura with a stop at Thuparama Dagoba. You can seek out the cycling trails while in the area.

Thuparama Dagoba

Nuwara Wewa

Learn about the local history of Anuradhapura when you take a trip to Nuwara Wewa. You can seek out the cycling trails while in the area.

Nuwara Wewa

Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum

You can study the exhibits at Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum, a museum with a storied past, during your travels to Anuradhapura. You can seek out the cycling trails while in the area.

Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum

Mirisawetiya Stupa

Learn about the local history of Anuradhapura when you take a trip to Mirisawetiya Stupa. You can seek out the cycling trails while in the area.

Mirisawetiya Stupa

Thuparamaya

You can find out about the history of Anuradhapura with a stop at Thuparamaya. You can seek out the cycling trails while in the area.

Thuparamaya

Areas of Anuradhapura

Default Image

Wijayapura

While there might not be top attractions in Wijayapura, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Nuwara Wewa and Mirisawetiya Stupa.

Wijayapura

Frequently asked questions

Is Anuradhapura worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Anuradhapura is visit Royal Palace of King Vijayabahu I. Check this leading sight off your agenda, then experience more of the area's walking trails and history.
How do I spend a day in Anuradhapura?
When you've checked off key attractions like Royal Palace of King Vijayabahu I and Mahasena's Palace, spend some time enjoying Anuradhapura's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Anuradhapura?
The top tourist attraction in Anuradhapura is Royal Palace of King Vijayabahu I, so make sure to add it to your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Anuradhapura?
Three days in Anuradhapura is more than enough to enjoy the city's major attractions. Many guests stay for two days on average. Royal Palace of King Vijayabahu I, Mahasena's Palace and Brazen Palace are among the top-rated sights. Want to experience more? Hang around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots such as Habarana.
Is Anuradhapura a walkable city?
It all depends on what you want to see and do in Anuradhapura. Several top sights, like Brazen Palace and Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Anuradhapura's best neighbourhoods, New Town is 3 kilometres away from downtown, while Wijayapura is 2 kilometres away from the city centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Anuradhapura with kids?
Whether you're travelling with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes a big difference. Check out our ideas for what to do in Anuradhapura with kids.

What to do in Anuradhapura for adults?
Mirisawetiya Stupa and Anuradhapura Folk Museum are just a few of the things to do in Anuradhapura. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Anuradhapura?
In Anuradhapura, Abhayagiri Dagoba is an unmissable spot for anyone looking to experience the city without taking their wallet out. Also, stroll around the green spaces and other neighbourhoods, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's a good way to find out about the best free things to do in Anuradhapura.