The ancient first capital city. The Kingdom flourished from 400 BC to 1100 AC and its fame spread as far as the Mediterranean Civilizations at that time. Great kings, philosophers, sages and brave warriors through the ages have left behind remarkable achievements. The highly developed unique architecture seen in the ruins of the magnificient monuments built during their times as well as the evidence of a high level of technical development in hydraulic engineering for irrigation that is seen here epitomes the extent of development achieved by this ancient civilization.

The great philosophy of Buddhism was introduced to the country by Mahinda Thera in the 3rd century BC to the King of Anuradhapura at that time. The highlights of sightseeing will be; The sacred Bo-tree, a sapling of the Bo-tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Historically authenticated as the oldest tree in the world it is venerated by all Buddhists. Thuparama, built in 300 BC this Stupa the first to be build on this island is believed to enshrines the collar bone relic of the Buddha. Ruwanveliseye, Built by the great folk hero, the warrior king Dutugemunu between 161-137 BC. Lovamahapaya, the great copper roofed mansion - the site where once stood a massive 7 storied mansion with a thousand chambers. Built by the king for the Buddhist monks during 161-137 BC. Isurumuniya rock Cave Temple, famous for the beautiful rock carving of the lovers. Royal Pleasure Gardens. Abhayagiri Dagaba, presently 235 feet high. This monument built by King Vattegamini in 100 BC according to the history books was Four Hundred feet high. Jetawana Dagaba, originally 400 feet in height it still remains the tallest brick monument in the world.