Anuradhapura, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, holds a special place in Sri Lanka’s history as the first capital of the island. This ancient city, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, is revered for its extensive collection of ruins, including majestic stupas, intricately carved stone pillars, and sprawling monasteries. At the heart of Anuradhapura stands the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi, a tree grown from a cutting of the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.

The city is a spiritual center for Buddhists, with sites like the Ruwanwelisaya and Jetavanaramaya stupas drawing pilgrims from across the globe. These colossal brick structures are among the largest in the world and are considered architectural marvels of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. The Abhayagiri and Mahavihara monasteries, once thriving centers of Buddhist learning, now stand as tranquil ruins that evoke the spiritual grandeur of the past.