Whether you're traveling to Sri Lanka for the first time or you've been there before, you'll find that there are many things to see and do in Anuradhapura. The city is located in northwestern Sri Lanka and is home to many ancient reservoirs, Buddhist sites, and stupas. There are also plenty of restaurants to choose from, so you're sure to find something to suit your tastes.
Ancient stupas
During ancient times, the city of Anuradhapura was the largest Buddhist center in the world. There were tens of thousands of monks living in enormous viharas in the city. These monasteries were dependent on the lay communities for their support. There were also several large stupas in Anuradhapura.
The first of the ancient stupas in Anuradhapura was the Thuparama. This stupa was constructed to celebrate the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. There is evidence of early stupas in Sri Lanka being donated by wealthy merchant guilds. The most important ancient stupas in Anuradhapura are located within the oldest monasteries in the city.
The Ruvanawelisaya Dagoba is one of the most sacred sites in the city. It was built in the 3rd century by king Devanampiya Tissa. It has a dome that reaches up to 11.4 feet. This stupa is the oldest of the Anuradhapura city complex. It is located at the northern end of the Mahavihara complex.
Ancient reservoirs
During the early Iron Age, a water management strategy in Anuradhapura centered on a water storage facility for irrigation purposes. A system of kaskadenartig Talsperren was installed to store the water and regulate the quality of the water. The system was considered to be a feat of engineering.
A large reservoir was built by King Mahanaga in the third century BC. It was later reconstructed by British rulers in the 1880s. A smaller wewa system was also built by local communities. This is considered to be the earliest large irrigation reservoir.
It was constructed in the era when the ancient Sinhalese kingdom flourished in the north central part of the island. They developed a system of large scale irrigation works that provided rice for their agriculture.
A number of small tank systems were also built. The earliest of these reservoirs is the Bassawakkulama tank, which is built around 300 BC. The 107 ha reservoir is considered to be the earliest large irrigation tank in Sri Lanka.
Buddhist sites
Several Buddhist sites in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka are important to the country's history. These sites are part of a complex of ruins that tell stories of ancient society and the evolution of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
The Bodhi Tree in Anuradhapura is the oldest living human-planted tree in the world. It is also one of the most sacred and revered Buddhist relics in the world. It is the site where Lord Buddha attained Enlightenment. It is located in a grove and is protected by a wall.
Another sacred site in Anuradhapura is the Ruwanweli Maha Seya, also known as the Maha Thupa. This relic is housed in a large white dome. It is said to contain relics of the Buddha. There are eight relics. It is considered to be the most sacred place in Sri Lanka.
Other notable Buddhist sites in Anuradhapura include the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya, a sacred fig tree that is the oldest documented fig tree in the world. It was planted in 288 BC by King Kirthi Sri Rajasinghe. It is also believed that Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya is a branch of the Bodhi Tree in Bodhgaya in India.
Restaurants
Known for ancient Sri Lankan civilization, Anuradhapura has a number of restaurants serving a variety of food. From vegetarian foods to vegan cuisines, you are sure to find a restaurant that caters to your taste buds. These establishments offer free parking, free Internet, and dine in or takeaway service.
If you are looking for a fine dining experience, Ceylan Lodge Restaurant offers world class cuisine. With a relaxing atmosphere, you are sure to enjoy your meals. Guests can choose from a selection of Indian, Chinese, and Western dishes. This restaurant also features an open-air beer garden on the roof, and it is popular for its drinks.
Another great place to try is Mango Mango, a local restaurant that serves authentic Indian food in Sri Lanka. It uses traditional Indian spices and herbs to prepare its dishes. It is a one-stop solution for travellers looking for Indian food in Sri Lanka.
Another great restaurant is the Milano Tourist Rest, which manages local ingredients and ensures that the flavors are preserved. The restaurant is modern and comfortable. The menu includes dishes that are locally sourced, and they have a great selection of veg and non-veg dishes.
