As the first great capital of Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura is a vast sacred city where colossal brick stupas touch the sky. It is home to the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, the oldest human-planted tree in the world, which has been guarded by monks for over two thousand years. Exploring this site feels like walking through the very foundation of the island’s Buddhist heritage, surrounded by ancient ponds and sprawling monastic complexes.