Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is the most ancient city of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is where Buddhism began in the country and where the first kingdom was located. The historic zone consists of a good variety of ruins spread over a large area, similar to a mini Siem Reap, with dagobas that remain important pilgrimage sites. The atmosphere is less touristy than Sigiriya or Polonnaruwa, with many white-clad Sri Lankan pilgrims visiting.

Anuradhapura is accessible by train and bus from major cities. The main railway station serves the city. Anuradhapura Airport (IATA: ???) also offers limited flights.

A US$25 ticket covers admission to all sites within Anuradhapura (except Isurumuniya), and is included in the Cultural Triangle ticket (US$50). South Asian nationals receive a US$15 discount. Tickets can be purchased at the Archaeology Museum or at the entrance. Many sites can be accessed for free by walking from the railway station to Sri Maha Bodhi. Beware of tuk-tuk drivers offering tours without tickets, which often exclude paid sites.

Tuk-tuks and buses are abundant; the PickMe app is used for ridesharing. The New Town is walkable in 30 minutes. The old town is large, so a tuk-tuk tour costs around Rs 3,500-4,500 (2023). Bicycles can be rented for Rs 1,000 per day and motorcycles for Rs 2,000 per day. The old town is open until 17:00, but some temples remain open until 21:00 or later on full moon days.

Apart from archaeology, you can explore the New Town with its shops and market. Guided city tours by bicycle or foot are available. You can swim in Tissa Wewa with locals, or in the river near Jetavanarama Dagoba.

Souvenir vendors at popular sites sell postcards, replica artifacts, carved figurines, earrings, and masks. Be aware that purchasing authentic ancient artifacts is illegal and can result in up to three years in prison. The New Town has many shops including photo shops, sari shops, Cargills Food City grocery store, pharmacies, and Zam Zams for general products.

Drinking alcohol in public is not acceptable. There are few bars, often secluded; guesthouses have bars serving Lion and Carlsberg beer. Two alcohol shops in the New Town sell arrack (coconut spirit) and international drinks. Soft drinks like Coca-Cola and Elephant House are widely available. Do not drink tap water.

Numerous guesthouses and budget accommodations are available in the New Town. Hostel dorms start from Rs 1,500-2,000 per person. Tuk-tuk drivers may offer rooms from acquaintances, usually basic but negotiable. Several listed places include Feels Like Home (dorm 1500-2000 Rs), Hotel Shalini (USD10-40), Lake House Homestay (dorm 1300 Rs, double 2500 Rs), Miridiya Lake Resort, and Milano Tourist Rest (USD25).

Remove shoes and hats at Buddhist sites. Circumambulate to the right (keeping the site on your left). Women should cover shoulders and wear respectful clothing. Do not turn your back on Buddha images. Photography is generally fine, but avoid taking pictures of people in front of Buddha images.

Beware of monkeys (macaques) which can be aggressive and may steal unattended belongings.

Sri Lanka is malaria-free, but there is a risk of dengue fever. Venomous snakes inhabit the area; avoid walking through long grass and don't stick hands into holes in masonry.

Internet cafes are available in the New Town, which is covered by broadband internet. Pre-paid SIM cards are almost free and provide cheap IDD calls and high-speed internet. There is a post office and numerous places for international phone calls (look for IDD signs).

Nearby destinations include Tissawewa reservoir, Mihintale (10 km east, Rs 500 admission, great views), Ritigala (40 km southeast, forest monasteries), and Dambulla. Mihintale can be reached by bus in 30 minutes; last bus back should not be missed. Ritigala is quieter and less visited. Several other small towns and temples are worth exploring in the area.