Abhayagiri Vihara - Anuradapura

Abhayagiri Vihāra was a major monastery site of Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism that was situated in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It is one of the most extensive ruins in the world and one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage cities in the nation. Historically it was a great monastic centre as well as a royal capital, with magnificent monasteries rising to many stories, roofed with gilt bronze or tiles of burnt clay glazed in brilliant colors. To the north of the city, encircled by great walls and containing elaborate bathing ponds, carved balustrades and moonstones, stood "Abhayagiri", one of seventeen such religious units in Anuradhapura and the largest of its five major viharas. One of the focal points of the complex is an ancient stupa, the Abhayagiri Dagaba. Surrounding the humped dagaba, Abhayagiri Vihara was a seat of the Northern Monastery, or Uttara Vihara.

Ruwanweli Maha Seya - Anuradhapura

Ruwanwelisaya is the one of the world tallest stupa, located in sacred city of Anuradhapura. It was built by king Dutugamunu (140 B.C).It is standing at 103 m (338 feet)with circumference of  290 m (950 feet)  Ruwanwelisaya is one of the 8 places of veneration in the Anuradhapura.  The Buddha's relics has been deposited in this sacred stupa.  Ruwanwalisaya is called various names such as Swarnamali Chaitya, Mahathupa, Suvarnamali Mahaceti. 

Today, after incurring much damage from invading Indian forces, it rises 55m, considerably less than its original height; nor is its form the same as the earlier ‘bubble’ shape. Its lowest circumference is usually wrapped in a strip of dazzlingly coloured cloth.

History of Anuradhapura

In 543 BC, prince Vijaya (543–505 BC) arrived in Sri Lanka, having been banished from his homeland in India. He eventually brought the island under his control and established himself as king. After this, his retinue established villages and colonies throughout the country. One of these was established by Anuradha, a minister of King Vijaya, on the banks of a stream called Kolon and was named Anuradhagama.

In 377 BC, King Pandukabhaya (437–367 BC) made it his capital and developed it into a prosperous city. Anuradhapura (Anurapura) was named after the minister who first established the village and after a grandfather of Pandukabhaya who lived there. The name was also derived from the city's establishment on the auspicious asterism called Anura. Anuradhapura was the capital of all the monarchs who ruled the country during in the Anuradhapura Kingdom, with the exception of Kashyapa I (473–491), who chose Sigiriya to be his capital. The city is also marked on Ptolemy's world map.

Sri Maha Bodhi - Anuradhapuraya

Rich in historical value, the holy city of Anuradhapura is where the sacred tree Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya is found. It is revered for being the southern branch of the ancient Sri Maha Bodhiya at Bodhi Gaya in India , which provided shelter for Lord Buddha as he attained enlightenment. The sacred bodhi tree is central to Anuradhapura in both a spiritual and physical sense. It was grown from a cutting brought from Buddhgaya in India and is said to be the oldest historically authenticated tree in the world; tended by an uninterrupted succession of guardians for over 2200 years, even during the periods of Indian occupation.

Today thousands of devotees come to make offerings, particularly on poya (full-moon) days and weekends. Sunset is a magical time to visit.

Hotel Topaz - Kandy

Hotel Topaz is nestled on top of Anniewatte Mountain. It provides a spa, a large outdoor pool and elegant accommodation. WiFi is available for free throughout the property.

All rooms are well-appointed with a tea/coffee maker, a hairdryer and ironing facilities. They have luxurious beddings and large windows which allow much natural light in. Spectacular views of the mountain are enjoyed from guestrooms.

Amaya Hills Kandy

Located in the Cultural Triangle, Amaya Hills Kandy offers a hillside retreat overlooking Heerassagala Forest. Featuring traditional Sri Lankan architecture, it has an outdoor pool, a spa and a restaurant.

Air-conditioned rooms at Amaya Hills include private balconies with mountain or valley views. Each room is fitted with a flat-screen TV and tea/coffee making facilities. The attached bathroom has a bathtub and shower.

Guests can exercise in the gym, or enjoy a game of squash or billiards. The tour desk can arrange activities like bird watching excursions, jungle treks and night safaris. Amaya Kandy also boasts a night club called Le Garage.

Hotel Suisse - Kandy

Originally built as a ministerial residence, the Hotel Suisse in Kandy exudes colonial charm and history. This 17th century colonial hotel, with elegant rooms and delightful old school service, sits on the beautiful grounds right on Kandy lake. The hotel is only a 15-minute walk from the Temple of the Sacred Tooth and 10 minutes from downtown Kandy. The large rooms feature high ceilings, elegant period furniture, balconies, gorgeous flower gardens, and lake views. The in-house restaurant serves excellent Sri Lankan and Western cusine. Please enter your dates on our secure online booking form to make a reservation at Hotel Suisse.