Ancient Anuradhapura’s best tours cut straight to what matters: sacred Buddhist sites, remarkable ruins, and living history. The guided day trips to UNESCO sites consistently deliver the most value, while tuk-tuk tours offer a local, flexible way to zip between highlights like the towering Ruwanweli Maha Seya and the 2,000-year-old Sri Maha Bodhi tree.
I particularly love the small-group walking tours that combine the major monuments with hidden spots and local food stops – they’re perfect for travelers who want both the highlights and off-the-beaten-path experiences. The early morning tours beat the crowds and heat, making them my top choice.
Below you’ll find our carefully selected tours that showcase the best of this ancient capital.
Key Points
- The Private City Day Tour offers a 100% recommendation rate and starts at $30 per person, suitable for visitors with special requirements.
- The Anuradhapura Ancient City Guided Day Tour provides a 12.5-hour exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, priced at $95 per person.
- The One Day Tour covers both Anuradhapura and Mihintale sacred cities, is highly rated at 4.8 stars, and costs $50 per person.
- The Anuradhapura Private Ancient City Day Tour includes tuk-tuk transport and headsets for up to 3 participants at $240.
- The Dambulla-to-Anuradhapura Guided Tour offers 7 hours of exploration, starts from $110 per person, and includes transportation, refreshments, and entrance fees.
Private City Day Tour in Anuradhapura
The Private City Day Tour in Anuradhapura is a highly popular offering, boasting 176 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate from travelers.
Priced from $30.00 per person, this private tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Anuradhapura’s significant cultural and historical sites. Guests are accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, Navin, who offers insights into Sri Lankan culture, Buddhism, and history.
The tour is praised for its engaging and educational experience, with a focus on personal interaction. Travelers can also enjoy local cuisine at a recommended restaurant.
The tour is suitable for most visitors, including those with special requirements, and guests are encouraged to ask questions for a personalized experience.
Read our full review: Private City Day Tour in Anuradhapura Review
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Anuradhapura Ancient City Guided Day Tour From Kandy
One of the most popular tours in the Anuradhapura region is the Anuradhapura Ancient City Guided Day Tour from Kandy.
This 12.5-hour tour takes visitors on a journey through the first ancient capital of Sri Lanka, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The tour includes a guided exploration of the city’s well-preserved archaeological and architectural wonders, such as the famous stupas, monasteries, and ancient irrigation systems.
Priced at $95 per person, the tour provides round-trip transportation from Kandy, an English-speaking guide, and a range of inclusions like bottled water and seasonal fruits.
It’s an immersive experience that allows travelers to explore Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and religious heritage.
Read our full review: Anuradhapura Ancient City Guided Day Tour From Kandy Review
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Half Day Tour – in Sacred City of Anuradhapura or Sacred City of Mihintale.
This half-day tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of either the sacred city of Anuradhapura or the sacred city of Mihintale.
The private tour allows only your group to participate, ensuring a personalized experience. Starting at 8:30 AM from the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura, the tour includes snacks, water, and all fees and taxes.
You’ll be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle, with the option for hotel pickup. The tour is wheelchair-accessible and accommodates infants.
With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior and positive reviews highlighting the guide’s storytelling and communication, this tour is a top activity in Anuradhapura.
Read our full review: Half Day Tour – in Sacred City of Anuradhapura or Sacred City of Mihintale. Review
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Anuradhapura Ancient City Guided Day Tour From Kandy
Embarking on an Anuradhapura Ancient City Guided Day Tour from Kandy promises an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s storied past.
Priced from $240 for up to 3 participants, this 12-hour tour offers a comprehensive experience. Visitors will discover sacred stupas, monasteries, and historic sites, learning about the ancient kingdom’s rich history and culture.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver-guide, and transportation by air-conditioned vehicle. While food and entrance fees aren’t included, bottled water, seasonal fruits, and complimentary WiFi are provided.
Certain medical conditions may make the tour unsuitable, and visitors must follow temple etiquette.
Read our full review: Anuradhapura Ancient City Guided Day Tour From Kandy Review
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One Day Tour – Sacred City of Anuradhapura & Sacred City of Mihintale. (Sunset)
Priced affordably from $50.00 per person, this one-day tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the sacred cities of Anuradhapura and Mihintale.
Highly rated at 4.8 stars and recommended by 95% of travelers, the tour includes snacks, an umbrella, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Pickup is available from various locations, and the tour can accommodate wheelchair users and infants.
With a start time of 8:30 am, the private tour allows your group to explore these historic sites at your own pace.
Enjoy the convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.
Read our full review: One Day Tour – Sacred City of Anuradhapura & Sacred City of Mihintale. (Sunset) Review
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Anuradhapura Private Ancient City Day Tour
Anuradhapura, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka, holds a wealth of historical and cultural treasures that captivate visitors.
The Anuradhapura Private Ancient City Day Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, the world’s oldest tree, the Samadhi Buddha statue, and the impressive Ruwanweli Maha Seya.
Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, travelers will explore the site’s rich history and Buddhist significance. The tour includes private transportation via tuk-tuk, entrance tickets, and communication-enhancing headsets, ensuring a seamless and immersive experience.
With a 5-hour duration and free cancellation, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to discover the wonders of Anuradhapura at a reasonable price.
Read our full review: Anuradhapura Private Ancient City Day Tour Review
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Anuradhapura Ancient City Tuk Tuk Tour
Why not explore Anuradhapura’s ancient wonders aboard a traditional tuk-tuk? The Anuradhapura Ancient City Tuk Tuk Tour offers a private, 5-star experience for up to 3 travelers.
Explore the UNESCO-listed ruins, temples, and museums with the convenience of a digital audio guide. Your tour includes bottled water, parking fees, and entry tickets.
The provider offers pickup from any tourist hotel, railway station, or bus stop within Anuradhapura. While not wheelchair-accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly.
Most travelers can participate, though it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a group rate starting at $54, this tour is an excellent way to discover Anuradhapura’s rich history.
Read our full review: Anuradhapura Ancient City Tuk Tuk Tour Review
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From Sigiriya, ANURADHAPURA UNESCO CITY Day Tour and Safari!
Embark on an immersive day tour from Sigiriya to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s ancient capital, combined with a thrilling safari adventure.
This 12-hour excursion takes you on a journey through the country’s rich history and diverse wildlife. Explore the UNESCO-listed city of Anuradhapura, marvel at the ancient engineering marvels, and discover the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi.
Then, venture into Minneriya National Park for a safari and a chance to spot elephants, birds, and other wildlife.
With a professional driver-guide, comfortable transportation, and the option to customize your experience, this tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural wonders.
Read our full review: From Sigiriya, ANURADHAPURA UNESCO CITY Day Tour and Safari! Review
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Anuradhapura : Ancient City TukTuk Tour
Although Anuradhapura is renowned for its ancient ruins and UNESCO World Heritage sites, exploring this captivating city on a private tuk tuk tour offers a unique and immersive experience.
At just $45 per group, the 5-hour tour takes visitors to 14 sites, including 8 UNESCO-listed locations. The customizable itinerary allows for personalization based on interests, and an audio guide app provides historical insights.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, parking fees, and entry tickets included, the tour is a hassle-free way to discover Anuradhapura’s treasures.
While not suitable for some guests, this tuk tuk adventure promises an unforgettable journey through the ancient city’s captivating past.
Read our full review: Anuradhapura : Ancient City TukTuk Tour Review
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Anuradhapura: Ancient City Motor Scooter Tour
For those seeking a more exhilarating way to uncover Anuradhapura’s ancient wonders, a motor scooter tour offers a thrilling alternative to the traditional tuk tuk experience.
Motorized scooters allow visitors to cover more ground, weaving through the historic city’s narrow streets and visiting key sites like the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, Abhayagiri Monastery, and Jetavanaramaya.
The tour typically lasts 3-4 hours, with a knowledgeable guide providing insights into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Scooter tours are rated 4.4 stars and are a popular choice for adventurous travelers, offering a unique and memorable way to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Read our full review: Anuradhapura: Ancient City Motor Scooter Tour Review
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From Dambulla: Guided Tour to Ancient City of Anuradhapura
The Dambulla-to-Anuradhapura guided tour provides adventurous travelers with a comprehensive exploration of the ancient Sri Lankan city.
Priced from $110 per person, the 7-hour excursion takes visitors through the UNESCO-listed Anuradhapura, showcasing its 4th-century-BC-to-11th-century-AD ruins.
Key highlights include the renowned Ruwanweli Maha Seya relic chamber, the world’s oldest planted tree at Sri Maha Bodhi, and the exquisite rock carvings of Isurumuniya Rajamaha Viharaya.
Complemented by transportation, refreshments, and all entrance fees, the tour offers a seamless and immersive experience.
With flexible cancellation policies and reserve-now-pay-later options, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking to uncover Anuradhapura’s rich historical and cultural heritage.
Read our full review: From Dambulla: Guided Tour to Ancient City of Anuradhapura Review
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The Sum Up
Anuradhapura offers a variety of city tours that allow visitors to explore its ancient ruins and sacred sites. From private guided tours to self-guided options like tuk-tuk or scooter tours, there’s an option to suit every traveler’s preferences. Whether you’re interested in the city’s UNESCO-listed heritage or its spiritual significance, these tours provide an immersive experience of Anuradhapura’s rich history and cultural heritage.