Day Excursions To UNESCO City ANURADHAPURA From Colombo

Exploring the ancient city of Anuradhapura from Colombo is a captivating opportunity to uncover Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, this day excursion promises an immersive journey through the ruins, temples, and sacred sites that have witnessed the rise and fall of dynasties. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, visitors can expect a personalized experience, navigating the intricate history and significance of this remarkable destination. From the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree to the imposing Ruwanwelisaya stupa, each landmark unveils a fascinating chapter in Sri Lanka’s past, leaving you eager to delve deeper into the…

Key Points

1. Guided day tours from Colombo to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Anuradhapura, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka, featuring historic landmarks like the Sri Maha Bodhi tree and Ruwanwelisaya stupa.

2. Private transportation with an English-speaking driver-guide, providing personalized attention and commentary throughout the excursion, which includes hotel pickup and drop-off.

3. Exploration of additional UNESCO-listed sites near Anuradhapura, such as Isurumuniya with its remarkable rock carvings, and Mihintale, a mountain monastery with panoramic views.

4. Inclusions such as bottled water and complimentary WiFi, ensuring comfort and convenience during the tour, with food, drinks, and gratuities not included.

5. Health and safety requirements, including the need for a negative PCR test for unvaccinated passengers, and comfortable walking shoes recommended for participants.

Tour Overview

This multi-stop tour takes visitors to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Anuradhapura, Isurumuniya, Sri Mahabodi, and Mihintale.

It’s a private tour with personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide. Round-trip transportation and a comfortable private vehicle with WiFi access are included.

Guests can expect bottled water, an English-speaking driver, hotel pickup and drop-off, and complimentary WiFi (where available).

However, food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t included.

The tour starts at 5:00 AM from a selected pickup point, and confirmation is provided upon booking.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes bottled water, an English-speaking driver cum guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, transport by private vehicle, and complimentary WiFi (subject to availability). However, the cost of food, drinks (unless specified), and gratuities are not included in the price.

Included	Not Included
Bottled water	Food and drinks (unless specified)
English-speaking driver cum guide	Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Transport by private vehicle
Complimentary WiFi (subject to availability)

Meeting and Pickup

Customers select a pickup point for the day excursion to Anuradhapura, which begins at 5:00 AM.

The tour includes:

1. Pickup and drop-off service from the selected location.
2. Transportation by a private, comfortable vehicle with WiFi access.
3. A knowledgeable, English-speaking driver-cum-guide to provide personalized attention throughout the tour.

Confirmation of the booking is received at the time of reservation.

Customers are advised to have a valid passport, and unvaccinated passengers must complete a 14-day quarantine before the tour.

Vaccinated passengers need a negative PCR report and must stay in a Level 1 hotel.

Health and Safety Requirements

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with heart problems, back issues, or pregnant women. A moderate physical fitness level is required, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Visitors to Buddhist and Hindu temples must remove their footwear and hats, and their shoulders and knees should be covered. A valid passport is mandatory, and unvaccinated passengers must complete a 14-day quarantine before the tour.

Vaccinated passengers need a negative PCR report and must stay in a Level 1 hotel. These health and safety requirements ensure the well-being of all participants during the day excursions to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Anuradhapura.

Cancellation and Pricing

The price for this day excursion to Anuradhapura starts from $94.00 per person, with variations based on group size.

Travelers can take advantage of the Lowest Price Guarantee and reserve their spot now with the option to pay later, providing them with added flexibility.

The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, allowing for last-minute changes.

Plus, this excursion provides:

1. Round-trip transportation with a comfortable private vehicle and complimentary WiFi.
2. An English-speaking driver cum guide to ensure a personalized and informative tour.
3. Bottled water to keep you hydrated throughout the day.

Visiting Anuradhapura

On this day excursion, visitors will frequently explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Anuradhapura, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka.

They’ll marvel at the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi, a 2,000-year-old sacred fig tree believed to be a sapling of the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.

Nearby, the towering Ruwanwelisaya stupa dominates the skyline.

Visitors can uncover the ruins of ancient palaces, monasteries, and irrigation canals that showcase the ingenuity of the Sinhalese civilization.

At Isurumuniya, they’ll admire the intricate rock carvings depicting scenes from daily life.

The tranquil setting and the opportunity to connect with Sri Lanka’s rich heritage make this a truly remarkable experience.

Exploring Isurumuniya

Nestled within the ancient city of Anuradhapura lies the serene Isurumuniya, a site renowned for its remarkable rock carvings that transport visitors back in time.

Featuring intricate sculptures from the 3rd century BC, Isurumuniya offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.

Visitors can explore:

1. The Isurumuniya Lover’s, a captivating carving depicting a couple in an intimate embrace.
2. The Elephant Pond, where lifelike elephant sculptures appear to emerge from the water.
3. The Priest’s House, with its impressive stone architecture and ornate carvings.

This tranquil sanctuary allows travelers to enjoy the spiritual and artistic essence of ancient Anuradhapura.

Discovering Sri Mahabodi and Mihintale

Descending from the serene Isurumuniya, visitors encounter the awe-inspiring Sri Mahabodi and Mihintale – two sacred sites that showcase Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage.

At Sri Mahabodi, they’ll stand in reverence before the sacred bodhi tree, believed to be a sapling from the original tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.

Mihintale, the mountain monastery, offers a glimpse into the island’s spiritual past, with ancient rock carvings and the Ambasthala dagoba.

Ascending the 1,840 steps to the summit, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views and a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s devotion to Buddhism.

These UNESCO-listed sites provide a profound cultural experience, leaving an indelible mark on those who venture to this spiritual oasis.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Group Size Required for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a minimum group size. It’s a private tour, so it can accommodate individuals or small groups. The price per person may vary depending on the total number of participants.

Are Children Allowed on This Tour?

Children are allowed on this tour, though it’s not recommended for travelers with young children or infants due to the moderate physical fitness level required and accessibility challenges. Families should consult with the tour operator for specific guidance.

Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Other Sites Nearby?

Yes, the tour can be extended to visit other nearby UNESCO World Heritage sites like Polonnaruwa or Sigiriya. Speak to the tour provider about customizing the itinerary to suit your interests and time constraints.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography at the Sites?

There may be some restrictions on photography at the UNESCO sites. Visitors should check with their guide for specific guidelines, as photography may be limited or prohibited in certain areas of the temples and sacred sites.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for Last-Minute Changes?

The tour has a flexible cancellation policy – travelers can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This allows for last-minute changes without penalty.

Recap

Set out on a captivating day excursion from Colombo to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Anuradhapura. Explore the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, the revered Ruwanwelisaya stupa, and other remarkable ruins. With a knowledgeable guide, enjoy personalized service and convenient transportation, uncovering the treasures of this ancient city rich in history and cultural significance.