Food History of Thuparamaya, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
The history of food around Thuparamaya, which is one of the oldest stupas in Anurapura, Sri Lanka, is intertwined with the country's rich Buddhist heritage. Following the introduction of Buddhism in the 3rd century BC, the cuisine in the region began to be influenced by the monastic culture. Monks consumed simple vegetarian meals, which would have been offered by the lay community. Over the centuries, these practices have had a profound influence on the local food, promoting a tradition of vegetarian dishes that are prevalent in the area.
Moreover, Anuradhapura, being an ancient capital, was a hub for trade and cultural exchange. This introduced a variety of spices, cooking techniques, and food preservation methods that enriched the local culinary tradition. Even today, these influences are apparent in the flavorsome and aromatic dishes that are served in and around Thuparamaya.
Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Thuparamaya, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
- Kottu (Non-Veg) - A delicious stir-fry of chopped roti bread mixed with spices, vegetables, and meat.
- Rice and Curry (Can be Veg or Non-Veg) - A staple meal with rice served with various curries and side dishes.
- Hoppers (Can be Veg or Non-Veg) - Bowl-shaped pancakes that are often served with spicy sambols or curry.
- String Hoppers (Veg) - Steamed rice noodles, usually served with curry.
- Dhal Curry (Veg) - A flavorful and hearty curry made from lentils, common in Sri Lankan cuisine.
- Pol Sambol (Veg) - A spicy coconut relish that is a perfect accompaniment to a variety of Sri Lankan dishes.
- Wambatu Moju (Veg) - An eggplant pickle that is sweet, sour, and very flavorful.
- Roti (Veg) - Flatbread that’s often served with a range of curries and sambols.
- Samosas (Veg) - Deep-fried pastry pockets filled with spiced potatoes and vegetables.
- Buffalo Curd with Kithul Treacle (Veg) - A traditional dessert made from buffalo milk curd sweetened with palm treaple.
Top Famous Restaurants in Thuparamaya, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
- Mango Mango
- 442/4 Godage Mawatha, Anuradhapura
- Famous Food: Hoppers (Can be Veg or Non-Veg)
- Little Paradise
- 622/18 Godage Mawatha, Anuradhapura
- Famous Food: Traditional Rice and Curry (Can be Veg or Non-Veg)
- Big Mama's Home Kitchen
- 394/27 Harischandra Mawatha, Anuradhapura
- Famous Food: Kottu (Non-Veg)
- Seedevi Family Restaurant
- 500/1 Maithreepala Senanayaka Mawatha, Anuradhapura
- Famous Food: String Hoppers (Veg)
- Ulpatha Restaurant & Bar
- Puttalam Rd, Anuradhapura
- Famous Food: Buffalo Curd with Kithul Treacle (Veg)
While these restaurants provide a taste of local cuisine with varying options for vegetarians and non-vegetarians, visitors are encouraged to mention their dietary preferences, especially when religious and cultural practices are considered, such as avoiding beef products.