From Negombo: Full-Day Unesco City of Anuradhapura Trip

Set out on a captivating journey from the coastal town of Negombo to uncover the ancient wonders of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO-listed city that holds the key to Sri Lanka’s rich heritage. This full-day excursion immerses you in the country’s storied past, allowing you to explore iconic sites like the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree and the impressive Ruwanweliseya Dagaba. With a knowledgeable English-speaking driver at your side, you’ll savor local cuisine and explore the historical significance of each destination, leaving you with an unforgettable experience that truly captures the essence of Sri Lanka’s cultural tapestry.

Good To Know

• Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s ancient capital, on a full-day private car trip from Negombo.
• Visit iconic sites like the Brazen Palace, Sri Maha Bodhi, and Ruwanweliseya Dagaba to immerse in the country’s rich cultural heritage.
• Enjoy a guided tour, local lunch, and scenic countryside drive for a comprehensive experience of this historic destination.
• Benefit from convenient pickup, English-speaking driver, and all-inclusive pricing to ensure a seamless and enjoyable excursion.
• Dress modestly and be prepared for weather changes as you discover the remarkable ancient wonders of Anuradhapura.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

This full-day UNESCO City of Anuradhapura Trip whisks visitors away on a captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s ancient past.

Beginning in Negombo, the 12-hour excursion covers the highlights of this revered archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure.

Travelers will explore the city’s iconic landmarks, from the centuries-old Mihintale and Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi to the impressive Ruwanweliseya Dagaba shrine.

With a private car and English-speaking driver, the trip offers a seamless and immersive experience, including a guided tour and the opportunity to soak in the region’s profound historical and cultural significance.

Priced from K₨3,173 per person, this all-inclusive adventure promises an unforgettable day of discovery in Anuradhapura.

Anuradhapura Highlights

Nestled within the storied lands of Sri Lanka, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Anuradhapura stands as a testament to the island nation’s rich heritage. This ancient city, once the capital of Sri Lanka, boasts an array of architectural marvels that captivate visitors. From the towering Brazen Palace, with its nine stories, to the revered Sri Maha Bodhi tree, over 2,000 years old, Anuradhapura’s highlights are a living museum of the country’s illustrious past. The iconic Ruwanweliseya Dagaba, a 2nd-century BC shrine housing Buddha’s relics, and the Jetawanaramaya dagobas further showcase the city’s profound spiritual significance. Exploring Anuradhapura is a journey through time, where the grandeur of the past intertwines with the present.

Notable Sites	Significance
Brazen Palace	9-story ancient structure
Sri Maha Bodhi	Over 2,000 years old
Ruwanweliseya Dagaba	2nd-century BC shrine with Buddha’s relics
Jetawanaramaya Dagobas	Impressive spiritual structures

Itinerary Details

The excursion kicks off with pickup from Avengard Hotels, where travelers embark on a scenic 3.5-hour drive to the ancient city of Anuradhapura.

Upon arrival, guests enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local restaurant before embarking on a 3.5-hour guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage site.

Highlights include the Mihintale monastery, the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree, the Isurumuniya rock temple, the colossal Ruwanweliseya dagoba, and the impressive Abhayagiriya temple complex.

After the tour, travelers savor a delicious local lunch before the 4-hour return journey to Negombo, concluding this immersive day of exploring Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

Included and Excluded

The full-day trip to Anuradhapura includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Pickup and drop-off at the accommodation, an English-speaking driver, and bottled water are all provided. Entrance fees to the historical sites are covered, and a local Sri Lankan guide will lead the guided tour, providing valuable insights into the rich heritage of Anuradhapura.

However, any food or drinks not specified in the itinerary and gratuities are excluded, allowing travelers to customize their experience to their preferences.

With these inclusions, the tour offers a well-rounded exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

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Pickup and Transportation

Travelers’ journey to the ancient city of Anuradhapura begins with a convenient pickup from their accommodation in Negombo.

They’ll board a comfortable car for the 3.5-hour drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, they’ll have the opportunity to gaze out at Sri Lanka’s picturesque countryside, with lush greenery and friendly locals.

The return trip to Negombo takes around 4 hours, providing ample time to reflect on the day’s experiences.

With an English-speaking driver at the helm, travelers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic route, knowing they’re in good hands.

Notable Sites

Amidst the ancient city’s hallowed grounds, visitors uncover a tapestry of remarkable sites that transport them to Sri Lanka’s glorious past.

Among the most captivating are:

• The Brazen Palace, a towering structure that once stood nine stories tall, a testament to the architectural prowess of the era.

• The revered Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred Bo tree descended from the original tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment, over 2,000 years old.

• The Ruwanweliseya Dagaba, a stunningly preserved second-century BC shrine housing the Buddha’s relics, a prime example of the region’s spiritual legacy.

These sites ignite the imagination, immersing travelers in the rich history and devotion that imbue Anuradhapura’s UNESCO-protected landscape.

Important Information

Visitors embarking on this full-day journey to Anuradhapura will want to come prepared. Comfortable shoes and sun protection like hats and sunglasses are musts, as moderate walking is involved.

Guests should also note that certain attire is required when visiting the sacred temples – shoulders and knees must be covered. Unfortunately, pets, smoking, and large bags aren’t permitted.

Plus, this trip may not be suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, or wheelchair users. While cancellations may allow rescheduling, the tour is subject to weather conditions, so a flexible mindset is recommended.

With the proper attire and preparation, travelers can look forward to an immersive exploration of this UNESCO-listed ancient city.

Cancellation and Booking

Guests have the option of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund on this tour. This provides a level of flexibility, allowing travelers to adjust their plans as needed without penalty.

Plus, the "Reserve now & pay later" policy removes the burden of immediate payment, making it easier to secure a spot. These booking options reflect the tour operator’s commitment to customer satisfaction and convenience:

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Reserve now & pay later
• Flexible rescheduling in case of weather delays or other unforeseen circumstances

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Temples?

Visitors must remove their footwear and hat when entering the temples. They should also cover their shoulders and knees to respect the sacred nature of these historical sites.

Can I Store My Luggage During the Tour?

Unfortunately, the tour doesn’t provide luggage storage services. Travelers must bring only essentials and leave any large bags behind. The focus is on exploring the historic sites comfortably without the hassle of heavy luggage.

Is Photography Allowed at All the Sites?

Photography is generally allowed at the historical sites in Anuradhapura, though visitors should be respectful and follow any site-specific rules. Many travelers find capturing the ancient ruins and sacred structures makes for incredible keepsakes from this UNESCO World Heritage journey.

Will There Be Any Stops for Shopping or Local Crafts?

While the full-day tour focuses on exploring Anuradhapura’s UNESCO heritage sites, there may be opportunities to browse local crafts and shops during free time or lunch breaks. Guests should check with the tour guide for any shopping stops along the way.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Halal Meal for Lunch?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or halal meal for lunch. The tour operator is happy to accommodate any dietary requirements with advance notice. They’ll ensure you enjoy a delicious, culturally authentic lunch during your guided exploration of the historic UNESCO site of Anuradhapura.

The Sum Up

This captivating full-day trip from Negombo to the UNESCO City of Anuradhapura offers an unforgettable opportunity to take in Sri Lanka’s rich ancient heritage. Explore the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, the impressive Ruwanweliseya Dagaba, and other significant sites, while enjoying comfortable transportation and delectable local cuisine. It’s a must-visit experience for anyone seeking to uncover the historical treasures of this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site.

You can check availability for your dates here: