DAY 03. ANURADHAPURA – MIHINTALE – PIDURANGALA – DAMBULLA
Check out after breakfast, and explore the Ancient city of Anuradhapura.
Anuradhapura is the spiritual centre for all Sinhalese Buddhists and one of the most archeologically important ancient cities anywhere in the world. There is also the Sri Maha Bodhi, the Sacred Bo Tree, at the heart of Anuradhapura, which is rumored to have grown from a cutting from the original bo tree in India, under which Buddha obtained enlightenment. The tree attracts pilgrims from all over the Buddhist world.
Just 13km east of Anuradhapura is Mihintale, the place where Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka in 247 BC. It is nestled on a rocky hill and if you want to see everything there are 1850 steps to climb (although it is now possible to drive up half way). On the way up you pass a ruined hospital and the ruins of the monks' refectory but the most interesting sights are at the top, including a Buddha statue and the Mahaseya Dagoba which can be seen for miles around.
Check-in to the hotel, and visit Dambulla Cave Temple as known as the Golden Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the best-preserved and most extensive cave temple complex of the country comprising of five main caves.
The Dambulla temples can be reached only on foot by climbing the Dambulla Rock. The climb offers a panoramic view of the flatlands below, and even if it may get tough for some, the temples and the viewpoints are worth the effort. The Dambulla Rock also offers a brilliant view of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
Dinner & overnight stay at your selected hotel