Visit Anuradhapura, the country’s first kingdom, which is well-known for the well-preserved remnants of a long-gone Sri Lankan civilization. The city is home to the world’s oldest known tree, which was cultivated from a branch of the same tree where the Buddha received his enlightenment from 2,500 years ago. It is currently a UNESCO World Heritage Site and for many centuries served as the epicentre of Theravada Buddhism. Relic chambers such as Ruwanveliseya, Abhayagiriya, and Jetavanaramaya are the greatest examples of man-made brick constructions worldwide. 

furthermore explore the Mihintale Buddhist Monastery and Aukana, the tallest ancient Buddha statue in Sri Lanka.

Highlights

• See the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, the world’s oldest known tree.
• Witness the technical marvel of Tissa Wewa, a human-made reservoir constructed by King Devanampiya Tissa that enabled irrigation.
• View Sri Lanka’s largest stupas, including Ruwanwelisaya and Miriswatiya Dagoba.
• The main stupa built over Lord Buddha’s footprint is the Abhayagiri Stupa, located within the Abhayagiri Monastery Complex.
• Visit Aukana to see the tallest standing Buddha statue.

Brief Tour Schedule:

7.00 Am – Hotel pick (Depending on your Location this may earlier or later)
8.30 Am – Visit Aukana – the tallest ancient Buddha statue in Sri Lanka. (Entry fees included)
1.00 Pm – Lunch at local restaurent
2.30 Pm – Visit the Mihintale Buddhist monastery.
4.00 Pm – We’ll return you to your hotel. Reach the hotel at around 6.00 Pm

Include:

• Hotel pick up and drop off (By Car or Van)
• Service of an English-speaking site guide
• Anuradhapura heritage site, Aukana & Mihintale Entrance fees
• Water bottles
• Lunch  
• All service fee and government taxes

Exclude:

• Expenses of personal nature
• Gratuities (Recommended)

Explore the amazing ruins of the ancient Anuradhapura, Aukana, and Mihintale.

A full day trip covering all the historical sites of the erstwhile ancient capital from your point of origin to Anuradhapura. As soon as you get to Anuradhapura in the morning, you will go to:

The sacred Bo tree, or Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, is the tree that Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under. It was brought by Sanghamitta, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka, from the main stem of the Bodhi tree in India. After receiving this sapling, King Devanampia Tissa ceremoniously planted it at its current location. 

After that, you will go to the Lovamahapaya, also known as Brazen Palace, which is a nine-story structure surrounded by stone pillars and was constructed by King Dutugemunu. The reason this building was given the name “Brazen Palace” was due to its copper or bronze roof tiles. This palace was built to accommodate one thousand monks and attendants, offering lodging, medical attention, and facilities for the wounded. 

The oldest stupa in Sri Lanka, Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba, is the next site to be visited. Ruwanwelisaya is regarded as a symbol of Sri Lanka’s past architectural grandeur. Ruwanwelisaya, sometimes referred to as the Great Stupa, was constructed in 140 BC by the victorious King Dutugemunu. This stupa is evidence of his ambitious project’s unmatched contribution to the resurgence of Buddhism in the nation. 

After that, you will visit Tissa Wewa, an artificial reservoir constructed in the third century BC by King Devanampiya Tissa to supply water to the king’s royal gardens and to augment the city of Anuradhapura’s water supply. After that, this reservoir was enlarged and included into an irrigation system consisting of canals. 

You will be taken to see Miriswatiya Dagoba, the first monument constructed by King Dutugemunu, from this location. On the seventh day of the water festival at the Tissa Wewa, an elaborate sword containing a sacred relic of Buddha was left implanted on the bank following his consecration. After returning from his bath at the reservoir, the king struggled to draw his sword multiple times, leading them to conclude that it was a miracle. For this reason, a dagoba was erected around the sword. 

The trip to the Thuparama Temple comes next. It was the first stupa constructed in Sri Lanka following the arrival of Buddhism, making it the oldest. The king, Devanampiya Tissa, constructed it. Possibly the smallest stupa on the island, if not the entire globe, is the Thuparama stupa. Because Mahinda, the son of Indian King Ashoka, is said to have brought the right collarbone relic of Lord Buddha to Sri Lanka, it is revered by Buddhists.

After that, you will be shown the renowned Moonstone, which is located in the Abayagiri Monastery at the top of the main staircase on the central structure. One of the greatest and best-preserved works of art from the 7th and 8th centuries is this moonstone. The Guardstone then comes into view. When the South Indian invasions occurred, the Rathna Prasada—once the biggest structure in the Abhayagiriyi monastery—was destroyed. Over time, the succeeding monarchs managed to conserve and maintain a few remnants. Among these is a finely sculpted guardstone that features a god king shielded by a five-headed cobra (Naga Gala) clutching a vase filled with flowers, symbolising wealth.

Then you enter the Abhayagiri Monastery Complex, which was constructed by Vattagamini Abhaya, a Sinhalese king, and is the biggest monastery complex in the Anuradhapura kingdom. The main stupa in this complex, Abhayagiri Stupa, was built over the footprint of Lord Buddha. There’s also a portion of the Sri Maha Bodhi tree. When it was first constructed, the stupa stood 370 feet tall, making it the second-tallest on the island. The new museum at Abhayagiri Monastery was founded in Fa-hsien’s honour to house and display the gold and gem- and crystal-encrusted jewellery and ornaments found during the excavations. The idea behind this museum’s creation was to preserve all artefacts and archaeological treasures unearthed during archaeological digs.

You will see the Samadhi Buddha Statue, a famous example of Sinhalese art and sculpture, after touring this complex. Standing at a height of two metres, this granite stone carving represents the position of meditation (Samadhi), which is linked to the Buddha’s initial realisation. It is one of the four Buddha statues positioned around the Bodhi tree, facing the four cardinal directions.

The stunning Jetavaranama stupa, which was constructed in the third century and was the largest brick structure in the world overall, will next be seen, along with the monastery. This massive bulbous stupa, made up of more than 90 million bricks, can inspire feelings of calm and tranquilly by encouraging introspection and a sense of connecting to the past. Because of this, it is definitely worth a visit, as the size of its structure demonstrates the achievement and tenacity of the era. The ruins of a monastery that once held three thousand monks stand all around it.

Next on the itinerary is a visit to Kuttam Pokuna, also referred to as the “Twin Ponds.” It is an eighteenth-century architectural landscape designed to serve as a swimming pool with terraces for the monks.

We’re going to take you out to lunch at 1:00 p.m.

Following lunch, the day tour will include a visit to Isurumuniya Viharaya. The picturesque Isurumuniya Viharaya is a temple that is partially built into a cave with a cliff above it. Elephants are intricately carved into the rock at the front of the cliff that appears to be rising out of a lovely pond. The most well-known carving in the temple is called “Isurumuniya Lovers,” and it was created on a granite slab that has been taken to the Archaeological Museum. The temple is a treasure trove of exquisite carvings.

You will be taken to the Aukana Buddha Statue or to Mihintale. The trip will take one hour.

As the birthplace of Buddhism, Mihintale is a popular destination for Buddhists worldwide and in Sri Lanka. In addition to pilgrims, tourists come to this location and ascend its hill to see the various monastic religious shrines, which include a magnificent 40-foot stupa that was constructed in the first century BC in honour of its significance.

The Aukana Buddha Statue is considered to be among Sri Lanka’s tallest standing Buddha statues, according to historical accounts. With its enormous height of 42 feet, the Buddha statue is a magnificent sculpture that showcases the artistry and craftsmanship of the artisans.

By evening, when the tour comes to an end, you will travel back to your original destination from Anuradhapura.

Duration: 10 hours

Know before you go

> You must bring a valid passport for entering the sites

> A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements

Departure Time Comments:

• Please be ready and waiting in your hotel lobby 15 minutes prior to your scheduled pick-up time.
• Pick up time will be changed according to the Pick up location and due to local traffic conditions.

Departure Locations:

Return Location:
Returns to original departure point

Suitable for children: Yes.

• Children below 5 years are complimentary when accompanied by a paying adult. 
• Child above 11 years apply for Adult ticket.
• All children must be accompanied by an adult.

What to wear:
A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements

What to bring along:
Passport, A cap or Hat, sunscreen, drinking water and a camera

Cancellation and Refund policy 

• Cancellations received 15 days (or more) of departure will incur a penalty of 10% per person.
• Cancellations received within 14 days of departure will incur a penalty of 50% per person.
• Cancellations received within 7 days of departure will incur a penalty of 75% per person.
• Cancellations received within 5 days of departure will incur a penalty of 100% per person.
• Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.
  More Details…

Additional Tour Information:

• For Same day & Next day bookings, Please you must contact us by Call or SMS / WhatsApp with mention exact pickup Location to +94776487757
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Please include your Mobile / Local contact number & Hotel pickup details at the booking

The post Anuradhapura Day Tour appeared first on Minneriya Safari Tours.

This all-day tour gives a perfect fusion of natural beauty, cultural heritage, history, and wildlife. Meet your driver at your accommodation and drive to Ritigala, the enigmatic ruins of an old mountain monastery. Then, a once-in-a-lifetime chance to fully experience the environment and customs of the authentic Sri Lankan village of Hiriwadunna with local buffet lunch. After, take an evening safari tour to Minneriya, Kaudulla or Hurulu Eco Park to witness elephants, animals, and birds in their native habitats.

Brief Tour Schedule:

8.00 Am – Hotel pick (Depending on your Location this may earlier or later)
9.00 Am – Visit ruins ritigala mountain monastry  (Ruins entry fee is included)
12.00 Pm – Join Hiriwadunna village tour with lunch
2.30 Pm – Leave to Minneriya, Kaudulla or Hurulu Safari Park
3.00 Pm – Start Safari tour (Park entry fee is Included)
5.30 Pm – Finish Safari Tour
6.00~6.30 Pm – Back to Hotel

1) Discover the fascinating ruins of the historic Ritigala mountain monastery.

Explore the 1 BC monastery ruins by travelling through a dense jungle that is home to bears, leopards, and wild elephants. Feel like Indiana Jones.

Monastery of Ritigala Forest is The largest hill in Sri Lanka’s northern half is not far from Habarana. On the east side of the range is one of the most mysterious excavated complexes. The so-called meditation platforms, also known as double platforms, are a peculiar kind of building that is only found in Sri Lanka. Previously, the largest monastery of the Pansukulikas Buddhist fraternity, whose goal was to live a more austere and solitary life than other Buddhist monks, was located at this location.

Duration: 2 hours

Additional Info

> Valid ‘passport is required‘ on the day of travel
> A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements
> Guide for ruins area not include ( Can arrange for for extra fee on tour day )

2) Hiriwadunna village tour with lunch

Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the nature and culture of a genuine Sri Lankan village during this 2.5-hour tour. Your driver will take you to the lovely farmland of Hiriwadunna Village in Habarana City. Tour start with a Bullock cart ride near to the village pond & at there you will experience a boat ride to the next side of the rural village. After short walk within the paddy fields & vegetable cultivation you can reach village house. At the village house you can relax & taste a delicious Sri Lankan Lunch. Then take a Tuk Tuk ride to tour start point.

3) Hurulu park, Minneriya or Kaudulla National park Safari

afterwards, your evening safari will take place in either Hurula Eco Park, Kaudulla National Park, or Minneriya, depending on where the greatest number of elephants are visible on the day of your trip. A 2.5–3 hour safari is expected.

Experience “The Gathering”, a name given to the elephants that assemble on the banks of the Minneriya / Kaudulla Tank during the dry season. According to wildlife authorities, the Minneriya & Kaudulla gathering is the World largest grouping of wild Asian elephants at any given time.

View the famous elephants as they graze on the grasses growing on the tank bed. Perhaps you’ll spot any of the park’s diverse wildlife, including deer, wild buffalo, grey langers, purple-faced leaf monkeys and assorted birds.

When your tour is complete, your vehicle will return you to your hotel or original departure point.

Include:

• Private Vehicle just for your party
• Visit ruins of Ritigala forest monastry (Entry fee include)
• Hiriwadunna village tour with lunch (All fees include)
• Professional Safari Driver 
• Minneriya, Kaudulla or Hurulu Park Entrance fee
• Driver & Jeep Entrance fee
• National Park Service fee $10
• National Park VAT Tax 15%
• Parking fees

Exclude:

• Food and drink unless specified
• Tips for Safari Driver & park ranger
• Guide fees of Ritigala ruins area (English guides available from $10 +)

Departure Time Comments:

• Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.
• Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 – 60 minutes prior to this time

Departure Location Name:

Return Location:
Returns to original departure point

Suitable for children:
Yes, children will love the spectacle of the gathering herds, often with many baby elephants

What to wear:
A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements

What to bring along:
Passport, A cap or Hat, sunscreen, drinking water and a camera

Safari Safety Guideline:
Guests are not permitted to get off the jeep and walk around the park. Please do not smoke or take alcoholic drinks inside the park and dispose of litter responsibly. Do not feed any of the animals. Drones are not allowed.

Please read our ‘Safety Guidelines‘ for more details about how the safari tours operate.

Cancellation and Refund policy 

• Cancellations received 15 days (or more) of departure will incur a penalty of 10% per person.
• Cancellations received within 14 days of departure will incur a penalty of 50% per person.
• Cancellations received within 7 days of departure will incur a penalty of 75% per person.
• Cancellations received within 5 days of departure will incur a penalty of 100% per person.
• Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.
  More Details…

Additional Tour Information:

• For Same day & Next day bookings, Please you must contact us by Call or SMS / WhatsApp / Viber with mention exact pickup Location to +94776487757
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not recommended for pregnant women
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical condition
• Child below 5 Years are Free of charge. / Child above 11 years apply for Adult ticket.
• Please include your Mobile / Local contact number & Hotel pickup details at the booking
• At some seasons, there are fewer elephants to see in Minneriya National Park due to elephant migration, so at that time we can change the safari to ‘Kaudulla National Park‘ or ‘Hurulu National Park‘ as an alternative tour option to give you a better safari experience.
  * Condition apply. (No Full / Partial Refund for Safari Tour Changes)

The post Ritigala Ruins, Village tour and Safari appeared first on Minneriya Safari Tours.

TOUR PLAN

The complete package includes hotel pickup and drop-off by Tuk-Tuk or Safari Jeep, a bullock cart ride, a boat ride,  a visit to a village house,  a local lunch, and a Tuk-Tuk ride.

Hotel pickup by Tuk-tuk 

You will be picked up by a tuk-tuk from your hotel situated in Habarana and drive approximately 15 minutes to reach the trekking starting point. Tuk-tuk transfers give you a very good chance to experience the natural breeze and take photos of the attractions along the road.

Bullock cart ride 

Usually, this 2.5 hour tour begins with a bullock cart ride to Hiriwadunna through unbeaten village tracks. There are 2 bulls dragging the cart, and the ride lasts from 15 minutes to 30 minutes. Rides end near Hiriwadunna Lake, where you get off the cart and join a catamaran boat ride.

Catamaran Boat ride

A catamaran boat ride takes place on Hiriwadunna Lake. You will cruise admiring the amazing views besides the lake, which also overlooks the Sigiriya and Pidurangala rocks. If you are interested, you can also join the boatman and help row the boat. He might surprise you with his craftsmanship and creativity a hat for the gentleman and a beautiful necklace for the ladies. At the end of the tour, the boat will dock by the small village on the other side of the shore.

Village activities and cooking demongstration   

You can observe a traditional daily live of a real village house. Should not miss a visit to the paddy field, See a garden where endemic vegetable grown. Climb the tree house next to the paddy field where farmers sleeps at night and try to keep animals away from the paddy. You can enjoy a simple traditional meal prepared by a village woman the using the Farmer’s hand-picked vegetables from the plot. If time permits you can also see how a village woman cook a traditional meal or a roti.

Buffet lunch (11am – 2.30pm)

After lunch there will be small presentation of how to make a roof out of coconut leaves and how to use kulla and mirisgala to separate rice seeds from the husks and straw.

Tuk-tuk ride  

At the end of the village tour you will be taking a Tuk-Tuk ride few-miles back to the main road- Habarana.

Hotel drop-off  

Then drive back to your hotel by Tuk-tuk..

1.45 PM > Arrive your hotel. (Or you can Join Minneriya / Kaudulla National Park jeep Safari Tour for visit Great Elephant Gathering – Price Not include, Have to book as separate tour)

Inclusions:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off by a Tuk-tuk
  (Habarana / Sigiriya / Dambulla City area Hotels only)
• Local driver cum guide
• All Entrance fees (Bullock cart ride, Boat ride, Tuk tuk ride)
• Lunch at village house

Exclusions:

• Food and drinks, unless specified
• Gratuities (optional)

Departure Time Comments:

• Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.
• Hotel pickups commence prior to this time. you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

Departure Location Name:

Directions to Departure Location:
# Safari No 4, Hiriwadunna, Main street, Habarana | GPS

Return Location:
Returns to original departure point

Additional Tour Information:

• For Same day & Next day bookings, Please you must contact us by calling or SMS with mention exact pickup Location
• Children must be accompanied by an adult 
• Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints, back problems or other serious medical conditions
• Not recommended for pregnant women
• Due to rugged surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair
• Please include your Mobile / Local contact number & Hotel pickup details in the booking

The post Hiriwadunna Village Tour appeared first on Minneriya Safari Tours.