Anuradhapura Heritage Tour - Tuk~Tuk Exploration with a Local

The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is a sacred fig tree, or Ficus religiosa, that stands in the Mahamewna Gardens in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Not only is it the closest authentic living link to Gautama Buddha, it is also the oldest human-planted tree in the world with a known planting date and a recorded history.

It was built by King Dutugamunu (137 BC – 119 BC) and completed by his younger brother, King Saddhatissa, after his death. The Ruwanweliseya is ranked among the tallest ancient monuments in the world.

At 122 metres (400 ft), it was the world's tallest stupa, and the third tallest structure in the world when it was built by King Mahasena of Anuradhapura (273–301).

Kuttam Pokuna (twin ponds or pools) are well preserved old bathing tanks or ponds in Sri Lanka. This pair of ponds was built by the Sinhalese in the ancient Anuradhapura Kingdom. They form part of the Abhayagiri vihāra complex and are an example of the works in the field of hydrological engineering, architecture and art of the ancient Sinhalese.

The Samadhi Buddha is a famous statue situated at Mahamevnāwa Park in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. The Buddha is depicted in the position of the Dhyana Mudra, the posture of meditation associated with his first Enlightenment. This statue is 7 feet 3 inches in height and carved from dolomite marble.

Jethawanaramaya Stupa is one of the most iconic and sacred Buddhist monuments in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, built during the reign of King Mahasena. Once rising over 120 meters, it was among the tallest brick structures in the ancient world and a major center for Theravada and Mahayana Buddhist learning. Today, Jethawanaramaya remains an important pilgrimage site, admired for its immense scale, historical significance, and timeless architectural beauty.

Sandakada Pahana, also known as Moonstone, is a unique feature of the architecture of ancient Sri Lanka. It is an elaborately carved semi-circular stone slab, usually placed at the bottom of staircases and entrances.

Over time, the architects of the Anuradhapura kingdom used stone, instead of wood, for the construction of guard stones, moonstones and balustrades, as stone was a more enduring material. The next stage in the evolution of the guard stones was the inclusion of carvings.

The Elephant Pond (Eth Pokuna) in Anuradhapura is a massive ancient reservoir built during the reign of the kings in Sri Lanka's historical Anuradhapura Kingdom. Measuring approximately 159 meters in length, 52 meters in width, and 9.5 meters in depth, it was used to supply water to the nearby monasteries. The pond's name likely comes from its enormous size, suggesting it could even accommodate elephants. A testament to ancient Sri Lankan engineering, the pond highlights the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the era's hydraulic systems

Thuparamaya Stupa, located in the sacred city of Anuradhapura, is considered the oldest stupa in Sri Lanka, dating back to the 3rd century BC. Built by King Devanampiya Tissa, it enshrines the sacred collarbone relic of Lord Buddha, making it a revered site for Buddhists. The stupa's bell-shaped design and surrounding stone pillars reflect the elegance of ancient Sri Lankan architecture. As the first stupa constructed after the introduction of Buddhism to the island, Thuparamaya holds immense historical and religious significance.

Isurumuniya Temple, located in Anuradhapura, is a beautiful and historically significant rock temple known for its intricate stone carvings. Built in the 3rd century BC, it was originally a sanctuary for Buddhist monks. The temple is famous for the stunning Isurumuniya Lovers sculpture, which showcases the exceptional artistry of ancient Sri Lanka. Surrounded by a serene lotus pond and carved rock formations, the temple offers a peaceful atmosphere, making it a must-visit site for both history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers.