Aukana and Anuradhapura Day Tour From Colombo

Discover the rich heritage of Sri Lanka with our Aukana, and Anuradhapura Tour. Our friendly driver will pick you up from your stay in Colombo, ensuring a seamless start to your journey. After a scenic 3-hour drive, you'll arrive at the awe-inspiring Aukana Raja Maha Viharaya, where you can marvel at the majestic Aukana Buddha statue. Continue your exploration as you visit the ancient city of Anuradhapura, home to sacred sites like Ruwanweliseya, Sri Mahabodi, and isurumuniya. Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance, witness ancient architectural wonders, and feel a deep connection to the country's cultural roots. This tour offers a unique blend of historical discovery, religious significance, and cultural immersion, allowing travelers to experience the grandeur of Sri Lanka's ancient civilization. Book this tour to create cherished memories, explore sacred landmarks, and gain a deeper understanding of the cultural tapestry that defines Sri Lanka.

1. 1

   Stop 1

   1.5 hours

   The Avukana statue is a standing statue of the Buddha near Kekirawa in North Central Sri Lanka. The statue, which has a height of more than 40 feet, was carved out of a large granite rock face during the 5th century. It depicts a variation of the Abhaya mudra, and the closely worn robe is elaborately carved.

2. 2

   Ruwanweli Maha Seya

   1 hour

   Ruwanweli Maha Seya is a towering stupa in Anuradhapura, built by King Dutugemunu in 140 BC. Revered as one of the most sacred Buddhist monuments, it enshrines the largest collection of Buddha’s relics and stands as a symbol of ancient Sinhalese architecture and spiritual devotion2.

3. 3

   Sri Maha Boodhi Temple

   30 min

   The Sri Maha Bodhiya is the oldest historically documented tree in the world, grown from a sapling of the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. Planted in 288 BC, it is a sacred pilgrimage site and a cornerstone of Buddhist heritage in Sri Lanka.

4. 4

   Jethawanaramaya

   30 min

   Jethawanaramaya is one of the tallest brick structures in the ancient world, built by King Mahasena in the 3rd century AD. This massive stupa once stood over 120 meters high and was part of the Jetavana monastery, symbolizing the power of Theravāda Buddhism.

5. 5

   Dagoba of Thuparama

   30 min

   Thuparamaya is the first stupa built in Sri Lanka after the introduction of Buddhism. Constructed by King Devanampiyatissa in the 3rd century BC, it enshrines the right collarbone relic of the Buddha and marks the beginning of Buddhist architecture on the island.

6. 6

   Mirisawetiya Stupa

   30 min

   Mirisawetiya Stupa was built by King Dutugemunu to enshrine his battle spear containing Buddha’s relics. Legend says the king forgot to offer his meal to monks and built the stupa as penance. It’s one of Anuradhapura’s earliest and most revered stupas.

7. 7

   Twin Baths (Kuttam Pokuna)

   30 min

   Kuttam Pokuna, or the Twin Ponds, are ancient bathing tanks showcasing advanced hydraulic engineering. Built for Buddhist monks, these symmetrical stone pools reflect the sophistication of Anuradhapura’s water management systems.

8. 8

   Moonstone or Sandakada pahana

   30 min

   The Anuradhapura Moonstone is a semi-circular stone slab found at the entrance of ancient temples. Intricately carved with symbolic motifs, it represents the cycle of life and is a hallmark of Sinhalese artistry and Buddhist symbolism.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.