Anuradhapura , Sri Lanka

Yapahuwa Ancient Kingdom from Habarana

Active

11h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This memorable tour takes you to see some of the historic highlights of Sri Lanka. See the ancient rock fortress from the kingdom of Yapahuwa. View the remote but beautiful ruins of Sasseruwa with its giant unfinished standing buddha statue. Visit the famous perfectly sculpted Aukana Buddha Statue. Get to know more about historical Sri Lanka with this tour.

Available options

Per Person

Pickup included

What's included

1-Liter Water Bottle Per Person.

Service of an English-speaking chauffeur guide.

Transport in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Hotel pickup and drop-off.

Detailed itinerary

Habarana, located in Sri Lanka's heartland, captivates visitors with its natural beauty and cultural allure. Surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes, this quaint town serves as a gateway to several iconic attractions, including nearby national parks like Minneriya and Kaudulla, renowned for their elephant gatherings. Adventure seekers can indulge in thrilling safaris or explore ancient sites like Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple, immersing themselves in the island's rich history and biodiversity.

The giant rock of Yapahuwa has a history dating back to the 13th century; when King Buvenekabahu (1273-1284 AD) made it the seat of his capitol. He noted its defensive abilities and created a stone fortress on the rock; which withstands the sands of time to this day. You will be able explore the ancient stone ruins and the place where the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha was ensconced during the Yapahuwa era.

After you will get to Sasseruwa, where the Ras Vehera Statue is. This lesser known statue is almost as tall as the Aukana Buddha at 36 m tall, though it remains incomplete. However the style of the statue is completely different from the Aukana Buddha. Little is known about who created it and why it was abandoned halfway; though archaeologists have confirmed that it is at least seven centuries old. You will be able to see remains of the image house that the statue originally stood within; and view the ruins of the monastic complex and cave temples around the statue.

Aukana Buddha Statue in Asisa Mudra or the “posture of blessing” is carved out of a rock boulder. The statue is carved in the round connected to the back to the rock boulder. The delicate and skillful carving of the Buddha’s robe humanizes and chastely reveals the underlying form of his body, while the face’s impassive expression projects an aura of spiritual supremacy.

It is said that the degree of alignment of the statue is such that raindrop on the nose would drop straight down to small depression carved between the toes. Aukana Buddha Statue is a masterpiece of a colossal Buddha Statue by an unknown sculptor: the serene expression of the statue, the gracefully carved robe with neat pleats brings in delicateness that could hardly be moulded into a rock. The impassive expression of the face reflects the supreme spirituality.

What's not included

Gratuities

Entrance tickets.

Food and beverages.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is a major city in Sri Lanka, famous for its well-preserved ruins of an ancient Sri Lankan civilization. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists and offers a rich cultural and historical experience.

Top Attractions

Sacred City of Anuradhapura

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sacred City of Anuradhapura is home to ancient stupas, temples, and ruins that date back over 2,000 years.

Historical Full day Free

Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba

One of the tallest stupas in the world, this iconic structure is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

Religious 1-2 hours Free

Sri Maha Bodhi

A sacred fig tree that is said to have been propagated from the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Jethawanaramaya Dagoba

The tallest stupa in Anuradhapura, known for its impressive size and historical significance.

Historical 1 hour Free

Isurumuniya Temple

A beautiful temple known for its rock carvings and serene atmosphere.

Religious 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kottu Roti

A popular Sri Lankan dish made with chopped roti, vegetables, and meat or seafood, cooked on a hot plate.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Hoppers

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with eggs or sambal.

Breakfast Vegetarian.

Rice and Curry

A staple Sri Lankan meal consisting of steamed rice served with a variety of curries.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Lamprais

A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables cooked in banana leaves.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Mihintale Exploring Ritigala Forest Monastery Tea tasting Visiting temples Exploring ancient ruins Attending religious ceremonies Witnessing the Esala Perahera festival

Best Time to Visit

January to March

This is the best time to visit Anuradhapura as the weather is pleasant and dry, making it ideal for exploring the ancient ruins and enjoying outdoor activities.

28-32°C 82-90°F