Visit Anuradhapura, The Cultural Triangle
Although Anuradhapura dates from the 4th century BC, Sri Lanka’s first Buddhist capital is more than just an ancient relic and still remains a devout holy city centred round the Sacred Bodhi Tree, believed to be grown from a cutting taken from the original Bodhi tree under which the Buddha gained enlightenment.
Anuradhapura
The Cultural Triangle, Sri Lanka
Although Anuradhapura dates from the 4th century BC, Sri Lanka’s first Buddhist capital is not merely an ancient relic.
The Sacred Bodhi Tree
It remains a devout holy city centred round the Sacred Bodhi Tree, believed to be grown from a cutting taken from the original Bodhi tree under which the Buddha gained enlightenment.
Pilgrims dressed in white mingle with brightly-robed Buddhist monks, while irreverent langur monkeys play amongst the ruins. The site is scattered over a couple of square miles, punctuated by immense bell-shaped dagobas housing Buddhist relics.
Other treasures
The city’s other treasures include the elaborately carved moonstone of Mahasen’s Palace, ancient bathing pools and the serene Samadhi Buddha.
Other places within The Cultural Triangle
More in Anuradhapura, The Cultural Triangle