Anuradhapura, the first capital of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage site, holds immense historical significance. As we embarked on our tour, starting at the temple, we knew we were in for a memorable experience. This ancient city has so much to offer that planning ahead was necessary to make the most of our visit.
Fortunately, our local experts from DHPL Travels had organized everything for us. They guided us through the significant parts of Anuradhapura and shed light on its importance to Sri Lanka. The journey began with a visit to Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred temple that left us in awe of the city’s rich heritage.
After the temple, we strolled past the clay pots, warmed by the sun like a furnace, and arrived at Ruwanwelisaya, an impressive stupa that stands as one of the tallest monuments in the world. The bronze palace, Lovamahapaya, and other remarkable landmarks like the meditation caves for the first monks awaited our exploration.
Walking through the well-preserved walkways of Anuradhapura, we couldn’t help but marvel at the city’s age. Over 3,000 years old, it proudly claims its place as one of the oldest inhabited cities globally. The ruins and smaller stupas dotted around the main one spoke volumes about the grandeur of the bygone era.
As we approached Ruwanwelisaya, its grandeur stood tall, commanding our attention. Before venturing in, we had to remove our shoes and cover our legs, respecting the customs of the holy site. As we circumambulated the stupa in a clockwise manner, we soaked in the peaceful ambiance and the blessings believed to come from the Buddha.
One cannot miss the sheer size of Ruwanwelisaya, as it towers over the people in its vicinity. Its magnificence was complemented by the mischievous monkeys that added an element of excitement to our visit.
Our day in Anuradhapura took an unexpected turn when we encountered a lively post-harvest ceremony at Ruwanwelisaya. Villagers paraded around the stupa, carrying a long piece of orange fabric, eventually wrapping it around the stupa. We couldn’t resist staying to witness this vibrant celebration of tradition and spirituality.
As the sun began to set, we decided to venture slightly off the beaten track and explore the countryside. It was a serene way to conclude our day, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the peacefulness of rural life.
Anuradhapura, with its ancient temples, stupas, and monastic ruins, offers a glimpse into the rich history of Sri Lanka. It is a place where time seems to stand still, and every step echoes with the stories of the past. DHPL Travels made sure our journey was not only informative but also inspiring, leaving us with memories that will last a lifetime.
For a truly immersive experience in exploring Sri Lanka’s ancient city of Anuradhapura, visit DHPL Travels. They will guide you through the wonders of this remarkable destination and make your journey unforgettable.
Check Out The Very Best Of Great Britain!
