Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is among the most ancient trees in Sri Lanka that even today are thriving in the Mahamewna Gardens of Anuradhapura. This special tree is said to have grown out of a cutting that was brought here from Bodh Gaya in India. It is believed that it has been brought from the very same place where Gautama Buddha had attained enlightenment, thus making it one of the most popular places to visit at Anuradhapura for pilgrims and spiritual souls. It was cared for by the ancient kings and queens of Sri Lanka, as well as many Buddhist leaders. Flourishing even in the harshest of conditions, this tree is said to have such tranquil beauty that it instills a sense of calm and peace in visitors.

Ruwanwelisaya Stupa is among the largest stupas (also called dagobas) in Sri Lanka and one of the most prominent places to visit in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Built long ago by King Dutugamunu, this beautiful stupa is nestled right in the heart of the heritage city of Anuradhapura. Also called Maha Stupa, this adorned structure is over 338 feet tall and has large paved courts as well as platforms that all add a unique architectural touch to this magnificent structure. Recent renovations have earned this shrine the privilege of being one of the most revered sanctums of worship in Anuradhapura.

The monastery of Jetavanaramaya is one of the largest monasteries in Anuradhapura. In fact, it was once the third-tallest structure in the whole world. The legend surrounding this ancient sanctum is that it’s the same place where Buddha’s sash or belt was tied and preserved for a long time, and that is what fascinates worshippers and history geeks from around the world and brings them here in large numbers every year. Luring in travelers with its enchanting historical significance, Jetavanaramaya still remains one of the largest holy structures in the world and is home to about 10,000 monks.

Also called the Brazen Palace, Lovamahapaya is almost 2000 years old palace and was built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century B.C. The most striking feature of this palace is its bronze tiles that add a dashing touch to the roof. The other prominent and attractive features of this palace include the 1600 stone columns that are as tall as 150 feet and support 9 stories with about 1000 rooms. It was initially used as a residence for Buddhist monks who would use it on the days of the “Poya” festival. And though it now lies in ruins, this massive palace is still a testament of a bygone age that speaks volumes about its rich culture and heritage.

Leaving Anuradhapura without exploring any dagobas is like a sin that you might not want to commit. This colossal dagoba can be dated back to the 1st century BC. The original height of Abhayagiri Dagoba was 100 meters owing to which it was one of the greatest structures in the world then. After reconstruction and preservation of this place, the height has been restored to 75 meters. The name of this place literally translates into the ‘Fearless Hill’ or ‘Hill of Protection’. You will find a slab with Buddha’s footprint and some moonstones.

On a visit to the Polonnaruwa Heritage City, the Royal Palace is a never miss attraction on the trip. This Royal Palace of the great King Parakumba (1153-1186 ) had been constructed as a seven-story building. It took the construction around seven years and seven months to be completed. Out of the 7 stories having 1000 rooms, only 3 stories with 55 rooms are remaining. The Palace had been destroyed by an invader from south Indian named “Maga’.

The swimming pool is situated at the corner of the palace grounds. There are some crocodile-mouth spouts which direct the fresh water into the pool. It is one of the main attractions of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. It is ideal to visit it in the evening owing to the warm weather.

The Rankot Vihara stupa had been created by Nissanka Malla of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. He had ruled the country for almost a decade from 1187 to 1196. The Rankoth Vehera have been created keeping in mind the old tradition of the Anuradhapura Maha Viharaya. It has an impressive height of 54 meters. The stone inscription near to the stupa describes it to be known as “Ruwanweli”.

The Polonnaruwa Vatadage is an ancient structure dating back to the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa of Sri Lanka. It is believed to have been built during the reign of Parakramabahu I to hold the Relic of the tooth of the Buddha or during the reign of Nissanka Malla of Polonnaruwa to hold the alms bowl used by the Buddha. Both these venerated relics would have given the structure a great significance and importance at the time. Located within the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, it is the best preserved example of a vatadage in the country, and has been described as the "ultimate development" of this type of architecture. Abandoned for several centuries, excavation work at the Polonnaruwa Vatadage began in 1903.

Parakrama Samudra is a water reservoir which consists of five different lakes namely Thopa, Dumbutulu, Erabadu, Boo, Katu tanks. It is also known as King Parakrama's Sea and is in Polonnaruwa in Sri Lanka. Topa Wewa is the oldest reservoir here which was built around 386 AD. The middle section has Eramudu Wewa and below you have Dubutula Wewa. The lakes here are separated by a smaller dam to reduce the pressure.