Anuradhapura, a city in Sri Lanka's North Central Province, is a significant part of the country’s rich cultural heritage. Here's how you can reach this ancient city:
The nearest airport to Anuradhapura is the Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) located in Katunayake, which is approximately 128 km south of Anuradhapura. From there, you can take a taxi or hire a car to drive to the city, which typically takes around 3 hours.
Traveling to Anuradhapura by train can be an exciting experience and offers a chance to see the countryside. The Anuradhapura Railway Station is well-connected with major cities like Colombo. You can check the schedule and fares at the Sri Lanka Railways website for more details.
The city is also accessible by bus. There are regular buses from Colombo and other major cities to Anuradhapura. Buses may vary from standard to luxury services. The traveling time is usually around 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic conditions.
If you prefer driving yourself or hiring a car with a driver, you can take the A9 highway that connects Kandy to Jaffna, passing through Anuradhapura. The road network to Anuradhapura is well-developed and offers a comfortable journey.
Once in Anuradhapura, you have multiple options for local transport, such as tuk-tuks, taxis, or renting bicycles, which are great for exploring the ancient ruins at your own pace.
