Anuradhapura, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, is a treasure trove of Sri Lanka's ancient civilization. As the first royal capital of the island, it served as the heart of Buddhist scholarship, architecture, and governance for over a millennium. Walking through this sacred city feels like stepping back in time — from enormous dagobas (stupas) like Ruwanwelisaya and Jetavanaramaya, to the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, believed to be the oldest living tree planted by humans.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to a complex network of monasteries, ponds, gardens, and temples, many of which date back over 2,000 years. Pilgrims dressed in white come from across the island to pay homage, making it not only a historical site but a living place of worship. You can sense the spiritual energy in the air, especially at dawn or dusk when the city glows in the soft golden light.