Ruwanwelisaya

Things to do in Ruwanwelisaya

Ruwanwelisaya in Anuradhapura offers a variety of activities for visitors, including biking around the ancient sites. This iconic stupa, imbued with rich history, provides a stunning backdrop for exploring the surrounding area, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka while enjoying the scenic beauty of the North Central Province.

Shopping

In Anuradhapura, visit the local markets for unique handicrafts and traditional souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to the Abayapura Shopping Complex, about 7.5km away, where you can find a mix of local products and modern shops in a vibrant atmosphere.

Recreation

Ruwanwelisaya offers tranquil meditation sessions amidst ancient ruins, encouraging mindfulness and relaxation. Nearby, wellness centres provide rejuvenating spa treatments and yoga classes, set against the backdrop of lush greenery, making for a perfect retreat to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Adventure

Ruwanwelisaya is a magnificent ancient stupa, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich history. Explore the nearby sacred gardens, engage with local monks, and take part in meditation sessions. The tranquil atmosphere invites reflection, while the stunning architecture provides a perfect backdrop for photography enthusiasts.

Nightlife

In Anuradhapura, the vibrant atmosphere around Ruwanwelisaya features local eateries serving delicious Sri Lankan cuisine and charming cafés. As night falls, you can explore nearby cultural sites illuminated beautifully, creating a serene backdrop for leisurely strolls and engaging conversations with locals.

Find the best attractions near Ruwanwelisaya

Ruwanwelisaya in Anuradhapura boasts a rich tapestry of attractions, perfect for those seeking cultural experiences. Visitors can explore ancient temples, delve into archaeological sites, and appreciate the historic palaces nearby. Each location offers a glimpse into the vibrant heritage of Sri Lanka, making it an unforgettable journey for any traveller.

• Sri Maha Bodhi: A revered temple located 249m from Ruwanwelisaya, Sri Maha Bodhi is home to a sacred fig tree, believed to be a descendant of the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. The serene atmosphere and rich spiritual significance make it a must-visit for those seeking cultural depth.
• Thuparamaya: Situated 186m from Ruwanwelisaya, Thuparamaya is the oldest stupa in Sri Lanka, housing a relic of the Buddha. Its unique architectural style and tranquil setting provide a unique insight into ancient Buddhist practices and local history.
• Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum: Also 186m away, this museum showcases the rich archaeological heritage of Anuradhapura. Exhibits include ancient artefacts and informative displays that highlight the area’s historical significance, offering a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka's past.

Best time to go to Ruwanwelisaya

The best time to visit Ruwanwelisaya is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	75.7°F (24.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	77.5°F (25.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	82.9°F (28.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	82.4°F (28.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
June	82.4°F (28.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
July	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	81.9°F (27.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	81.7°F (27.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
October	80.2°F (26.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
December	76.5°F (24.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ruwanwelisaya

To save money on your trip to Ruwanwelisaya, consider visiting during the cheaper months of July and September to October, when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can help secure better rates, especially if you opt for Sundays, the least expensive day to stay. Use Expedia's search tools to compare room rates and filter preferences to find the best deals. Additionally, look for package deals that combine hotel reservations with flights and activities for added savings. Don't forget to check for free cancellation options for flexibility.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Ruwanwelisaya are July and September to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January and April to May, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Ruwanwelisaya about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Ruwanwelisaya is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Ruwanwelisaya is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you prefer. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your Ruwanwelisaya hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.