Anuradhapura’s ancient ruins are perfectly suited for exploration by bicycle. This UNESCO site spans a massive area, and cycling proves far more efficient than walking in the tropical heat.
The standard half-day guided tours offer excellent value, covering major sites like Ruwanweliseya and the Twin Ponds while avoiding the midday sun. For history buffs, I’m especially fond of the full-day option – it includes tuk-tuk pickup and all entrance fees, allowing more time at each monument.
What makes these tours work: reliable bikes (crucial in this heat), guides who know their history, and flexible booking policies. The morning tours are your best bet, starting early when temperatures are cooler and the light is perfect for photos.
Let’s look at our favorite bike tours through this ancient capital.
Key Points
- The 4-hour private cycling tour offers a tranquil exploration of Anuradhapura’s ancient ruins and monuments, including the iconic Ruwanweliseya and Sri Maha Bodhi tree.
- The 6.5-hour cycling tour from Dambulla/Sigiriya provides a comprehensive experience visiting Anuradhapura’s key landmarks like Ruwanveliseya, Abhayagiriya, and the sacred Jetavanaramaya.
- The private half-day guided cycling tour allows visitors to discover Anuradhapura’s iconic sites, including Tissa Wewa, Isurumuniya Temple, and Jetavanaramaya Stupa.
- The full-day bike tour from Anuradhapura covers significant sites such as Ruwanweli Maha Seya and Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, including the Brazen Palace and Twin Ponds.
- The cycling tours in Anuradhapura offer high-quality bikes, helmets, and first aid supplies, as well as flexible cancellation policies and pay-later options.
Cycle Through 2000 Years of Sacred History and Culture – Anuradhapura
Step into the heart of Anuradhapura, a city steeped in 2,000 years of sacred history and captivating culture.
Set out on a private cycling tour that allows you to learn about this remarkable destination. You’ll be outfitted with high-end, well-maintained bikes and helmets, and the tour includes first aid supplies, bike spare parts, bottled water, and snacks to keep you energized throughout the journey.
The tour covers all fees and taxes, and additional transportation is available upon request. Priced at $90.00 per person, the tour offers a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. You can secure your spot with a pay-later option, giving you the flexibility to plan your trip.
The tour starts at 7:00 AM, with pickup points available.
While the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, a moderate physical fitness level is required to fully enjoy the cycling adventure through Anuradhapura’s sacred sites and rich cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Cycle Through 2000 Years of Sacred History and Culture – Anuradhapura Review
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From Dambulla/Sigiriya: Ancient City of Anuradhapura by Bike
Departing from the vibrant hubs of Dambulla or Sigiriya, embark on a captivating 6.5-hour cycling tour that will unveil the ancient wonders of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its profound ties to Theravada Buddhism.
For $120 per person, you’ll explore this historic city, pedaling through ruins dating back to the 4th century BC and the 11th century AD. Marvel at the Ruwanveliseya, Abhayagiriya, and Jetavanaramaya, as well as the Moonstone, Guard Stones, and Samadhi Buddha Statue.
The highlight is the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, believed to be the world’s oldest human-planted tree.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this bike adventure offers flexibility and convenience.
Enjoy Anuradhapura’s tranquil ambiance and uncover its captivating historical legacy at your own pace.
Read our full review: From Dambulla/Sigiriya: Ancient City of Anuradhapura by Bike Review
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Anuradhapura: Private Half-Day Cycling Tour W/ Guide
Set out on a captivating private half-day cycling tour through the ancient city of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site steeped in Theravada Buddhist history.
This 4-hour activity takes you on a journey through the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Tissa Wewa manmade reservoir, Isurumuniya Temple, and the colossal Jetavanaramaya Stupa, one of the largest brick structures in the ancient world.
Pedal through the Royal Park, explore intricate stone carvings and moonstones, and marvel at the serene Samadhi Buddha statue.
Discover the grandeur of the Ruwanwelisaya Pagoda, the oldest stupa in Sri Lanka, and encounter the captivating Twin Ponds and elephant sculptures.
With a private, English-speaking guide leading the way, you’ll explore the rich cultural and historical significance of each site.
Enjoy refreshments, including a bottle of water and biscuits, as you cycle through this captivating destination.
With a cancellation policy that allows free changes up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers flexibility and a memorable experience in Anuradhapura.
Read our full review: Anuradhapura: Private Half-Day Cycling Tour W/ Guide Review
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From Anuradhapura: Ancient City of Anuradhapura by Bike
Venture into the ancient and mystical city of Anuradhapura on a captivating 7-hour bike tour.
You’ll explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, enjoying the rich history and Theravada Buddhist heritage. The tour starts with pickup from your Anuradhapura hotel at 8 AM, whisking you away on a tuk-tuk.
Along the way, you’ll visit iconic sites like the Ruwanweli Maha Seya, Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, and Isurumuniya Rajamaha Viharaya.
Marvel at the moonstone and guard stones, as well as the Thuparama and Lankaramaya Dagobas. Don’t miss the impressive Brazen Palace and the serene Twin Ponds.
The highlight is the Samadhi Buddha Statue and intriguing rock carvings at Isurumuniya Temple.
The tour includes mountain bike rental, entrance fees, and complimentary refreshments.
With a flexible cancellation policy and pay-later option, you can easily fit this immersive experience into your travel plans.
Bring your charged smartphone and passport, and get ready for a deep dive into Anuradhapura’s captivating past.
Read our full review: From Anuradhapura: Ancient City of Anuradhapura by Bike Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
You’ll discover Anuradhapura’s 2,000-year-old sacred sites and UNESCO-listed ruins on these bike tours. Explore at your own pace, taking in the serene atmosphere and learning about the city’s rich history from knowledgeable guides. Whether you start from Dambulla/Sigiriya or Anuradhapura itself, these tours provide an immersive and active way to experience this ancient Sri Lankan capital.