This tour takes you to the oldest city of Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura. Feel the weight of two millennia in the ruins of the city, which was grand in its heyday. Hear the local legends and stories about Anuradhapura. Cycle by the beautiful Tissawewa reservoir. View the majestic Jetavanaramaya, which was one of the tallest monuments of the ancient world. See Anuradhapura as you have never seen it before.
Highlights:
Includes:
- Mountain bikes and helmets.
- Managing the entire cycling route.
- Well-experienced cycling guide.
- Refreshments.
Excludes:
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off.
- Entrance fees.
-
Food and drinks, unless specified.
- Gratuities.
Experience:
Your tour will begin at the embankment of Tissa Wewa at 8:00 am. You will meet your cycling guide and receive bicycles, helmets, and refreshments. This artificial reservoir was created in the 3rd century BC by King Devanampiyatissa and is the third oldest manmade reservoir in Sri Lanka. The embankment is 2 miles long and 25 feet tall, providing a scenic cycling path.
From Tissa Wewa, you will bike to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Anuradhapura City, home to ancient monuments and ruins. Your guide will share local stories and legends. Along the way, stop at the Isurumuniya Temple, also built in the 3rd century BC by King Devanampiyatissa. The temple features renowned stone carvings including the Isurumuniya Lovers, the Royal Family, and the Elephant Bathing carving.
At the Anuradhapura ruins, you will first visit the Abhayagiri Stupa, once part of the Abhayagiri Monastery. It was the second-largest brick structure in the world after Jetavanaramaya. You'll see elaborate moonstones, a reclining Buddha, the giant Samadhi Buddha statue, and the beautifully designed Twin Ponds (Kuttam Pokuna).
Next, visit the Lankarama Stupa, believed to have been a vatadage based on ruins of pillars and a stupa house, built in the 1st century BC. Then proceed to Jetavana Pagoda, built in the 4th century AD. It remains impressive with carved bas reliefs, high arches, and lotus pedestal designs. Finally, visit Ruwanwelisaya Pagoda, built in the end century BC. It is the oldest stupa still in use, featuring elephant sculptures around its base. The tour concludes outside the ancient city by 12:00 pm.
