Things to do in Anuradhapura

Activities, attractions and tours

A large brick dome structure with a smaller brick building on top, set against a partly cloudy sky.
A large white dome with a golden spire, surrounded by a low wall with colorful stripes.
A large, white stupa with a golden spire, surrounded by stone steps and a cloudy sky.
A large, domed structure with a conical roof, surrounded by a fence and a small pond reflecting the building.
Two Buddha statues in meditation poses, one yellow and one orange, with a spiral design in the background and purple flowers in the foreground.

Things to do

Picture 1 for Activity Polonnaruwa Sight Seeing Tour and Minneriya Elephant Safari

Polonnaruwa Sight Seeing Tour and Minneriya Elephant Safari

RM390
per adult
Polonnaruwa Sight Seeing Tour and Minneriya Elephant Safari
Anuradhapura Old City Tours With Temples & Hidden Stories

Anuradhapura Heritage Tour - Tuk~Tuk Exploration with a Local

RM82
per adult
Anuradhapura Heritage Tour - Tuk~Tuk Exploration with a Local
From Sigiriya: Minneriya National Park Elephant Safari

From Sigiriya: Minneriya National Park Elephant Safari

RM220
per adult
From Sigiriya: Minneriya National Park Elephant Safari
Jaya sri maha Bodhi tree

One Day Tour - Sacred city of Anuradhapura & Sacred city of Mihintale. (Sunset)

RM205
per adult
One Day Tour - Sacred city of Anuradhapura & Sacred city of Mihintale. (Sunset)
Minneriya Safari: Morning Birds or Afternoon Herds

Minneriya Safari: Morning Birds or Afternoon Herds

RM156
per adult
Minneriya Safari: Morning Birds or Afternoon Herds
Minneriya: Full-Day 4x4 Safari, Secret Trails & Jungle Lunch

Minneriya National Park: Full Day - Half Day Safari

RM156
per adult
Minneriya National Park: Full Day - Half Day Safari
Day Tour Anuradhapura from Kandy by Lux Tours Lanka

Day Tour Anuradhapura from Kandy by Lux Tours Lanka

RM436
per traveller
Day Tour Anuradhapura from Kandy by Lux Tours Lanka
Picture 7 for Activity Sigiriya Village Safari by Tuk Tuk, Catamaran Ride & Lunch

Sigiriya Village Safari by Tuk Tuk, Catamaran Ride & Lunch

RM132
per adult
Sigiriya Village Safari by Tuk Tuk, Catamaran Ride & Lunch
Minneriya Wild Adventure with Expert Driver-Guide

Minneriya Elephant Safari with Expert Local Driver-Guide

RM98
per adult
Minneriya Elephant Safari with Expert Local Driver-Guide
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What to do in Anuradhapura

Stay near popular Anuradhapura attractions

Ruwanwelisaya

9.4/10 (25 reviews)
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.
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Where to stay in Anuradhapura

Find the best Anuradhapura areas for the activities you enjoy most.
A rustic outdoor market stall with a corrugated metal roof, a wooden bench, and a woman standing behind a counter.
Photo by Minul Tennakoon
Open Photo by Minul Tennakoon

Wijayapura

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

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.