Anuradhapura was the first capital of Sri Lanka for over a millennium and is now a vast archaeological park and UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most sacred cities for Buddhists, housing the Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree grown from a sapling of the original Bodhi tree in India—believed to be the oldest historically documented tree in the world. The city’s ruins include the towering Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, the Abhayagiri Monastery, and the Jetavana Monastery, all surrounded by serene reservoirs and ancient stone pathways. The best time to visit is from December to February. Rent a bicycle or hire a tuk-tuk to explore the sprawling site. Start early to avoid the midday heat and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.