Aukana and Anuradhapura Day Tour From Colombo

Colombo , Sri Lanka

Aukana and Anuradhapura Day Tour From Colombo

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8h - 10h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the rich heritage of Sri Lanka with our Aukana, and Anuradhapura Tour. Our friendly driver will pick you up from your stay in Colombo, ensuring a seamless start to your journey. After a scenic 3-hour drive, you'll arrive at the awe-inspiring Aukana Raja Maha Viharaya, where you can marvel at the majestic Aukana Buddha statue. Continue your exploration as you visit the ancient city of Anuradhapura, home to sacred sites like Ruwanweliseya, Sri Mahabodi, and isurumuniya. Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance, witness ancient architectural wonders, and feel a deep connection to the country's cultural roots. This tour offers a unique blend of historical discovery, religious significance, and cultural immersion, allowing travelers to experience the grandeur of Sri Lanka's ancient civilization. Book this tour to create cherished memories, explore sacred landmarks, and gain a deeper understanding of the cultural tapestry that defines Sri Lanka.

Available options

Aukana and Anuradhapura Day Tour From Colombo

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

WiFi on board

Bottled water

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

The Avukana statue is a standing statue of the Buddha near Kekirawa in North Central Sri Lanka. The statue, which has a height of more than 40 feet, was carved out of a large granite rock face during the 5th century. It depicts a variation of the Abhaya mudra, and the closely worn robe is elaborately carved.

Stop 2

Ruwanweli Maha Seya is a towering stupa in Anuradhapura, built by King Dutugemunu in 140 BC. Revered as one of the most sacred Buddhist monuments, it enshrines the largest collection of Buddha’s relics and stands as a symbol of ancient Sinhalese architecture and spiritual devotion2.

The Sri Maha Bodhiya is the oldest historically documented tree in the world, grown from a sapling of the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. Planted in 288 BC, it is a sacred pilgrimage site and a cornerstone of Buddhist heritage in Sri Lanka.

Jethawanaramaya is one of the tallest brick structures in the ancient world, built by King Mahasena in the 3rd century AD. This massive stupa once stood over 120 meters high and was part of the Jetavana monastery, symbolizing the power of Theravāda Buddhism.

Thuparamaya is the first stupa built in Sri Lanka after the introduction of Buddhism. Constructed by King Devanampiyatissa in the 3rd century BC, it enshrines the right collarbone relic of the Buddha and marks the beginning of Buddhist architecture on the island.

Mirisawetiya Stupa was built by King Dutugemunu to enshrine his battle spear containing Buddha’s relics. Legend says the king forgot to offer his meal to monks and built the stupa as penance. It’s one of Anuradhapura’s earliest and most revered stupas.

Kuttam Pokuna, or the Twin Ponds, are ancient bathing tanks showcasing advanced hydraulic engineering. Built for Buddhist monks, these symmetrical stone pools reflect the sophistication of Anuradhapura’s water management systems.

The Anuradhapura Moonstone is a semi-circular stone slab found at the entrance of ancient temples. Intricately carved with symbolic motifs, it represents the cycle of life and is a hallmark of Sinhalese artistry and Buddhist symbolism.

What's not included

Entrance Ticket - Aukana

Entrance Ticket – Anuradhapura

Available languages

Written guide

DE IT FR ES

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling commercial capital, is a vibrant blend of modern life and colonial charm. With its diverse culture, rich history, and tropical beauty, the city offers everything from historic sites and religious landmarks to lively markets and beautiful beaches.

Top Attractions

Galle Face Green

A scenic promenade along the Indian Ocean, popular for kite flying, evening strolls, and street food.

Beach 1-2 hours Free

National Museum of Colombo

Sri Lanka's largest museum, showcasing the country's rich history and cultural heritage.

Museum 2-3 hours LKR 1,000 (foreigners)

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara

An ancient Buddhist temple with significant historical and religious importance.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Beira Lake

A scenic lake in the heart of Colombo, offering boat rides and beautiful views.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (boat rides may have a small fee)

Colombo Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

A historic building transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination.

Shopping 1-3 hours Varies by shop

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rice and Curry

A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries made from vegetables, meat, or fish.

Main Dish Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Hoppers (Appa)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.

Breakfast/Dinner Vegetarian, can be made vegan without egg.

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made from chopped roti (flatbread) cooked with vegetables, meat, or fish, and spices.

Dinner/Snack Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Lamprais

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

Main Dish Non-vegetarian, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Popular Activities

Hiking Water sports Wildlife safaris Beach activities Spa treatments Yoga Temple visits Museum tours

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This period offers the best weather for visiting, with warm temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions.

28-32°C 82-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night

Colombo is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Be cautious of pickpocketing, bag snatching, and overcharging by taxis and vendors.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and guides
• Agree on fares before using taxis or tuk-tuks
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Bandaranaike International Airport • 35 km south of Colombo

By train

Colombo Fort Station

By bus

Bastion Street Bus Terminal, Colombo Central Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Colombo Fort Cinnamon Gardens Galle Face Pettah

Day trips

Kandy

115 km • Full day

Kandy, the last capital of the ancient kings' era, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and scenic beauty.

Galle

120 km • Full day

Galle is a historic coastal city known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dutch Fort, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage.

Negombo

35 km • Half day

Negombo is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant fishing industry.

Festivals

Vesak • May (full moon day) Esala Perahera • July or August (full moon day) Christmas • December 25

Pro tips

Use app-based taxi services like Uber or PickMe for reliable and transparent pricing
Carry small denominations of cash for markets and street vendors, as change may be limited
Bargain politely when shopping at markets and with street vendors, as prices are often negotiable
Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience, but be cautious of food hygiene and choose busy stalls with high turnover
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat