Anuradhapura Unveiled: Exclusive Private Day Tour

Uncover the enchanting history and spiritual allure of Sri Lanka’s ancient capital, Anuradhapura, on this exclusive private day tour. Journey back in time as an expert guide unveils the captivating stories behind the majestic Avukana Buddha Statue, the revered Bodhi Tree, and the UNESCO-listed ruins of this once-thriving civilization. Savor a delightful lunch at a local heritage hotel, and let the comfortable transportation whisk you away to this remarkable destination, where the past seamlessly intertwines with the present. Prepare to be immersed in a world of timeless wonder and profound cultural significance, as this tour promises to leave an indelible mark on your Sri Lankan exploration.

Good To Know

• Exclusive private day tour of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s first capital, priced from K₨3,613 per person for an 8-9 hour experience.
• Tour includes visits to Avukana Buddha Statue, Anuradhapura ancient sites, and Mihintale, with transportation provided via air-conditioned car with five pickup locations.
• Highlights include a guided tour of Anuradhapura’s relic chambers and the opportunity to see the world’s oldest recorded tree, the sacred Bodhi Tree.
• Lunch at a local heritage hotel and an English-speaking site guide for insights and historical context are included in the tour.
• The tour requires adherence to a dress code of long-sleeved shirts and long pants for sacred sites, enhancing cultural respect and experience.

Tour Overview and Pricing

This exclusive private day tour offers travelers a chance to unveil the rich history and cultural heritage of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s first capital.

Priced from K₨3,613 per person, the 8-9 hour tour provides a comprehensive experience. Guests can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The itinerary includes visits to the Avukana Buddha Statue, guided tours of Anuradhapura and Mihintale, and a lunch stop at a local heritage hotel.

Transportation is provided via air-conditioned car with pickups from five convenient locations.

Travelers will enjoy exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site, ancient relic chambers, and the world’s oldest recorded tree, all while learning from an English-speaking guide.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with a journey to the Avukana Buddha Statue, an awe-inspiring 12-meter-tall carved statue that stands as a testament to Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage.

Visitors then embark on a guided tour through the ancient city of Anuradhapura, exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site‘s relic chambers, including the Ruwanveliseya, Abhayagiriya, and Jetavanaramaya.

The tour offers a chance to witness the world’s oldest recorded tree, the sacred Bodhi Tree.

After a delectable lunch at a local heritage hotel, the journey continues to the sacred site of Mihintale, where travelers can enjoy the area’s profound spiritual significance and captivating history.

Transportation and Pickup Locations

Convenient pickup locations across five strategic towns ensure accessibility for travelers, allowing them to embark on the Anuradhapura Private Day Tour with ease.

Guests can choose from pickup points in Sigiriya, Habarana, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, or Kandalama, ensuring a seamless start to their journey.

The tour includes roundtrip transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned car, allowing travelers to sit back and enjoy the scenic countryside en route to the historic city of Anuradhapura.

Whether visitors opt for a pickup close to their accommodation or a convenient meeting point, the transportation arrangements cater to their needs, making the tour experience as effortless as possible.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Anuradhapura Private Day Tour thoughtfully includes a comprehensive array of services to ensure a seamless and worry-free experience for guests. The tour includes:

1. Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off to simplify logistics.

2. An English-speaking site guide to provide in-depth insights and historical context during the sightseeing.

3. All entrance fees for the UNESCO World Heritage sites and other attractions, as well as bottled water to keep guests hydrated.

In addition, a delectable lunch at a local restaurant is provided, and all government taxes are covered.

However, personal expenses and gratuities for the guide and driver aren’t included, allowing guests to customize their spending according to their preferences.

Important Information and Dress Code

Guests embarking on the Anuradhapura Private Day Tour should come prepared with the appropriate attire. To visit the sacred sites, it is essential to wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants. This conservative dress code helps respect the cultural and religious significance of the locations. Visitors must also ensure their clothing covers their shoulders and knees when entering these hallowed spaces. Arrival at the pickup location should be 15 minutes before the scheduled time, and a valid passport is required for entry. Following these guidelines will ensure a seamless and enriching experience during the tour.

Dress Code Recommendations
Long-sleeved Shirt	For Sacred Sites
Long Pants	For Sacred Sites
Covered Shoulders	For Sacred Sites
Covered Knees	For Sacred Sites
Valid Passport	For Site Entry

Avukana Buddha Statue

Towering majestically over the lush, verdant landscape, the Avukana Buddha Statue is a stunning testament to the region’s rich Buddhist heritage.

This colossal 12-meter-tall Buddha image, carved from a single block of granite, stands in serene contemplation, its features exuding a sense of tranquility and spiritual enlightenment.

Visitors can explore the intricate details of the statue, marveling at the skilled craftsmanship that brought this monumental work to life.

The Avukana Buddha Statue offers a glimpse into the area’s storied past, embodying the enduring influence of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

As part of the day tour, travelers can enjoy the site’s historical significance and bask in the sheer grandeur of this extraordinary statue.

Anuradhapura Guided Tour

After marveling at the grand Avukana Buddha Statue, the day tour moves on to the historic city of Anuradhapura. A guided tour through this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s ancient Buddhist heritage. Visitors explore the relic chambers of Ruwanveliseya, Abhayagiriya, and Jetavanaramaya, and witness the world’s oldest recorded tree, the sacred Bodhi tree. The tour culminates with a visit to the impressive Mihintale, the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Along the way, the knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary, bringing the site’s rich history and culture to life.

Anuradhapura Highlights	Duration
Ruwanveliseya	30 mins
Abhayagiriya	45 mins
Jetavanaramaya	1 hour
Bodhi Tree	45 mins

Mihintale Guided Tour

The tour continues with a guided exploration of Mihintale, the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Visitors ascend the 1,840 steps leading to the summit, where they discover a profound sense of history and spirituality.

The highlights include:

1. The Ambasthala Dagoba, an ancient stupa believed to mark the spot where King Devanampiyatissa and the Buddhist monk Mahinda first met.

2. The Kantaka Chetiya, a well-preserved rock shrine and meditation site offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.

3. The Aradhana Gala, a massive rock formation where Mahinda preached his first sermon to the king, igniting the spread of Buddhism throughout the island.

The Mihintale experience provides a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Additional Fees for the Tour?

There are no additional fees for the tour. The price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking site guide, entrance fees, water bottles, lunch, and all government taxes. The only exclusions are personal expenses and gratuities.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Travelers can request customizations to the tour itinerary, subject to availability and feasibility. The tour operator is typically open to accommodating reasonable adjustments to the schedule or inclusions, providing a personalized experience within the tour’s parameters.

What Language Options Are Available for the Tour Guides?

The tour guides are available in English, making it easy for English-speaking travelers to fully enjoy the historical and cultural insights provided throughout the day. Other language options may be available upon request.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children or Elderly Travelers?

The tour is suitable for children and elderly travelers, with provisions like air-conditioned transportation and designated rest stops. However, the long walking distances and uneven terrain may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. Appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes are recommended.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available for the Tour?

The tour operator doesn’t currently offer any discounts or promotions, but they do provide a ‘Reserve now & pay later’ option which allows travelers to book the tour without an upfront payment.

The Sum Up

Unravel the captivating history and spiritual essence of Sri Lanka’s ancient capital, Anuradhapura. From the towering Avukana Buddha Statue to the sacred Bodhi Tree, this exclusive private tour offers an immersive journey through the UNESCO-listed ruins, guided by an expert who illuminates the past. With convenient transportation and a delectable local lunch, this comprehensive experience promises an unforgettable exploration of this revered cultural treasure.