If you want to see Sri Lankan culture and ancient Sri Lanka during your visit to Sri Lanka, you should prioritize visiting Anuradhapura. Anuradhapura, the first kingdom of Sri Lanka, bears witness to the civilization that existed in Sri Lanka 2000 years ago.
The kingdom of Anuradhapura, ruled by a proud line of kings, began in 4 BC and lasted until the beginning of 11 AD.
The preserved ruins of Anuradhapura reveal to the world the greatness of Sri Lankan civilization as well as the knowledge of engineering, architecture, irrigation and hydraulic technology of the past Sri Lankans. The civilization that started around Anuradhapura was one of the most advanced civilizations in Asia. Anuradhapura is the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and is a popular village among local and foreign Buddhists. Anuradhapura was named a World Heritage City by UNESCO in 1982 due to its vast historical and archaeological heritage.

Some places of historical importance in Anuradhapura

Ruwanwelisaya

Ruwanvelisaya, which stands up to the sky and shows the pride of Anuradhapura, is considered to be the tallest stupa in the world. The Ruwanweli Stupa, where the Buddha’s relics are enshrined, was started by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BC. Ruwanveli Saye, the main dagaba belonging to the Mahavihara, has a diameter of 951 feet and a height of 338 feet.

Sri Maha Bodhi

The Sri Maha Bodhi, surrounded by a beautiful golden fence, is the world’s oldest tree with a written history. In the 3rd century BC, King Devanampiyatissa planted the Sri Maha Bodhi in Mahamewuna Garden.
The kings of the past are believed to have planted this tree from a bud of the Bo plant where the Buddha attained enlightenment. This bud was brought to Sri Lanka by Sangamitta Theraniya, the daughter of King Ashoka of India.

Sri Maha Bodhi is one of the oldest trees in Sri Lanka, which is still standing today in a quiet environment in Anuradhapura Mahamewuna Garden under the protection of ancient kings for many years.
Many devotees believe that this tree has the power to fulfill good wishes.

Lovamahapaya

Lowamahapaya, which can be considered as one of the most magnificent buildings in the history of Sri Lanka, was a building for monks to live in the past.
Built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BC, this building is believed to have 9 floors. It is believed to have 1000 rooms and 100 rest rooms. The size of this building can be deduced from the 1600 stone pillars with 40 rows of 40 stone pillars each 12 feet high. There is also a 45 feet long rice boat that can prepare alms for 3000 monks at the same time in this building which has a dormitory for monks and a conference hall.
It is also called Brazen Place because of the use of bronze tiles on the roof. It is located between Sri Maha Bodhi and Ruwanweli Saya.

Isurumuni Lovers

The Isurumuni Lovers is one of the most iconic and romantic symbols in Sri Lankan history, drawing visitors to the ancient city of Anuradhapura to witness the beauty of this stone carving. This masterpiece, found within the Isurumuniya Temple, not only represents artistic excellence but also tells a tale of timeless love and devotion. It is a subject of great fascination for both historians and romantics alike.

The Isurumuniya Temple, built in the 3rd century BCE by King Devanampiyatissa, is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. The temple is part of the larger complex of the Anuradhapura Kingdom, which was once the center of ancient civilization in the island nation.

Among the many artifacts and carvings within the temple, the most famous is the stone relief known as “Isurumuni Lovers” or “Isurumuniya Pem Yuwala.” This piece, carved into the rock face, has been the subject of admiration for centuries and continues to intrigue visitors with its romantic and artistic charm.
There are several interpretations of the story behind the Isurumuni Lovers, though the most popular belief associates it with the love story of Prince Saliya and Asokamala. Saliya was the son of King Dutugemunu, one of the most celebrated kings in Sri Lankan history. According to legend, Saliya fell in love with a beautiful commoner named Asokamala. Despite the social norms of the time, which expected royal family members to marry within their class, Saliya chose love over his royal duties. He gave up his right to the throne to marry Asokamala, which demonstrates the depth of his love for her. This carving is said to represent Saliya and Asokamala, their serene expressions and graceful poses reflecting the pure and enduring love they shared. The lovers are depicted in a tender moment, with the man seated, leaning back, while the woman sits by his side, gently embracing him. This intimacy and connection make it one of the most famous and touching representations of love in Sri Lankan art. The Isurumuni Lovers is not just a symbol of love but also a testament to the artistic prowess of ancient Sri Lankan sculptors. The intricacies of the carving, the flow of the figures, and the balance of the composition all reflect the high level of craftsmanship during the Anuradhapura period. The figures exude a sense of grace and fluidity, blending harmoniously with the rock from which they were carved. The carving is considered a fusion of Hindu and Buddhist artistic influences, as seen in the postures and attire of the figures, which bear resemblance to classical Indian sculptures. The sculpture represents a blend of cultural and religious traditions, making it a significant piece not only in terms of romance but also in Sri Lanka’s broader historical and artistic context. The Isurumuni Lovers have become an enduring symbol of Sri Lankan culture, representing both romantic love and the rich heritage of the island. Tourists from around the world flock to Anuradhapura to view this ancient sculpture and learn about the history behind it. The image of the Isurumuni Lovers has also been widely reproduced in various forms, from paintings to souvenirs, further embedding it in the national consciousness.
For those interested in ancient art, history, or romance, the Isurumuni Lovers offers a glimpse into the past—a love that defied the odds and transcended time. It is not just a work of art but a story that continues to inspire and evoke emotion.

Apart from this, one can see other important places like Thuparamaya, Museum, Jethavanaramaya, Abhayagiriya, Isurumuniya, Mihintale, Samadhi Statue, Wilpattu and Ritigala Reserve and Ranmasu Garden during the Anuradhapura tour.