Day 1: Discover Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient Sinhala Buddhist ruins, and the sacred city of Mihintale

Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi - The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is a revered Bo tree located in the Mahamewna Gardens of Anuradhapura. It is the oldest human-planted tree in the world with a known planting date and a recorded history, and it serves as a living link to Gautama Buddha.

Approximately 2,600 years ago, Lord Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment while sitting under an Esathu tree on the banks of the Neranjana River in Bodhgaya, India. This tree, known as the Bodhi tree, became a significant pilgrimage site even during the Buddha’s lifetime.

In 236 BC, the Buddhist nun Sanghamitta Maha Theri brought a southern branch of the original sacred fig tree from India to Sri Lanka, sent by King Asoka. King Tissa planted this branch in Anuradhapura in 288 BC.

Jethawanaramaya Stupa - The Jetavanarama stupa, or Jetavanaramaya, is a Buddhist reliquary monument located in the ruins of the Jetavana monastery in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Standing at 122 meters (400 feet), it was the world’s tallest stupa and the third tallest structure globally when built by King Mahasena of Anuradhapura (273–301). The stupa enshrines a relic believed to be a part of a sash or belt tied by the Buddha.

Dagoba of Thuparama - Thuparamaya is the first Buddhist temple constructed in Sri Lanka after the arrival of Mahinda Thero. Located in the sacred Mahamewna park, the Thuparamaya Stupa dates back to the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa (247-207 BC) and is recognized as an archaeological site by the government.

Moonstone or Sandakada pahana - The Anuradhapura Sandakada Pahana (Moonstone) is a unique feature of ancient Sinhala architecture, typically found at the base of staircases and entrances. This intricately carved semi-circular stone slab symbolizes the cycle of Saṃsāra in Buddhism. The carvings include a half lotus in the center, surrounded by bands depicting animals like elephants, lions, horses, and bulls, representing the four noble truths or the stages of life.

Twin Baths (Kuttam Pokuna) - Kuttam Pokuna, or twin ponds, are well-preserved ancient bathing tanks in Sri Lanka, built by the Sinhalese in the Anuradhapura Kingdom. Part of the Abhayagiri vihāra complex, they showcase the ancient Sinhalese expertise in hydrological engineering, architecture, and art.

Samadhi Statue - The Samadhi Buddha statue, located in Mahamevnāwa Park in Anuradhapura, depicts the Buddha in the Dhyana Mudra, the meditation posture associated with his first Enlightenment. Carved from dolomite marble, this 7 feet 3 inches statue is believed to have originally been gilded with inlaid eyes made of precious gems.

Abhayagiri Dagaba - Abhayagiri Vihāra was a major monastery site for Mahayana, Theravada, and Vajrayana Buddhism in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It is one of the world’s most extensive ruins and a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. The complex includes an ancient stupa, the Abhayagiri Dagaba, and was historically a royal capital with magnificent monasteries.

Main Refectory Of Abayagiri Monastery - The Mahapali Refectory, located in Sangamiththa Mawatha, Anuradhapura, is one of the refectories of the Abhayaragiri Monastery, believed to have been built by King Devanampiyatissa in the 3rd century BC. A notable feature is a deep well constructed with granite and bricks.

Muragala (Guard Stone) - Muragala, or guardstones, are a distinctive feature of ancient Sinhalese architecture. These twin oblong stone slabs with rounded tops are typically found at the foot of staircases leading to elevated places of worship.

Mirisaveti Stupa - The Mirisaweti Stupa, built by King Dutugamunu (161 BC to 137 BC) in Anuradhapura, commemorates his victory over King Elara. The stupa was constructed at the site where the king’s sceptre, containing Buddha relics, was placed and could not be moved. The stupa’s name reflects the king’s penance for eating a chili curry without offering it to the sangha.

Lankarama Sthupa - Lankarama is a stupa built by King Valagamba in Anuradhapura. Although its original form is unknown, the ruins suggest it was encircled by a house (vatadage) built to cover it. The stupa’s courtyard is circular, with a diameter of 406 meters (1,332 feet).

Isurumuniya Temple - The Isurumuni Vihara, originally known as Meghagiri Vihara, was built by King Devanampiya Tissa for high-caste children who were ordained. Renovated by King Kasyapa I, the temple features a viharaya connected to a cave, a small stupa, and carvings of elephants and a horse. Nearby is the Ranmasu Uyana.

Mihintale - Mihintale, the first Buddhist city in Sri Lanka, is renowned for the Mihintale rock, where Arhat Mahinda Thero met King Devanampiya Tissa and introduced Buddhism to Sri Lanka in 306–307 B.C. Arhat Mahinda Thero, the son of Emperor Dharmashoka of India, arrived with six followers on a Poson Fullmoon Poya day.

Sela Pagoda - Ambasthala Dagaba, also known as Sela Chethiya, is a Buddhist temple in Mihintale. It enshrines the hair relic of Lord Buddha and marks the spot where Mahinda Thero met King Devanampiyatissa. The stupa, built by King Mahadatika Mahanaga, is surrounded by stone pillars and leads to a large white Buddha statue.

Kalu Diya Pokuna Natural Black Water Pond - Located at the foot of Mihintale’s western slopes, Kalu Diya Pokuna is the largest pond in the area. Its name, meaning ‘black water pool,’ reflects the dark reflections of the surrounding trees and boulders.

Ruwanwelisaya - Ruwanwelisaya, also known as Ruwanweli Seya, is a large stupa in Anuradhapura built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BCE. It is one of Sri Lanka’s most revered and oldest stupas, notable for its massive dome and intricate carvings.

Day 2: Safari in Wilpattu National Park. Spot leopards, elephants, and diverse wildlife in Sri Lanka’s largest park.

Wilpattu National Park - Wilpattu National Park, located in northwest Sri Lanka, is the country’s largest national park. Known for its unique “villus” (natural lakes) and rich biodiversity, the park is home to leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and numerous bird species. Established in 1938 and reopened in 2010, it offers a serene and less crowded safari experience.

• Snacks
• Lunch
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Umbrella

• Accommodation
• All fees and/or taxes

Day 1: Anuradhapura & Mihintale

Morning: Discover Anuradhapura’s famous and hidden sites with a guided tour.

Lunch: Enjoy a traditional meal with a village family.

Afternoon: Experience local life on a village safari.

Evening: Watch the sunset at Mihintale Stupa.

Day 2: Wilpattu National Park

Morning: Take a guided safari to see diverse wildlife, including birds, reptiles, leopards, and elephants.

Afternoon: Explore more of the park’s unique flora and fauna.

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