Attractions
Discover Local Attractions – From cultural landmarks to scenic wonders, explore the must-see spots around Whitehouse Hotel that make every stay unforgettable.
Some of the many attractions in Anuradhapura are
The sacred city of Anuradhapura is known for its remarkable historical and cultural values. Also declared a UNESCO world heritage site, Anuradhapura has once being the ruling capital of many kings. The most significant ones are King Dutugemunu, Dathusena and Mahasen who have made valuable contributions to the Sri Lankan religion, culture and social history.
Today many foreigners as well as locals visit the city of Anuradhapura to experience the remains of great monuments, places of religious significance and beautiful natural scenery.
Samadhi Buddha Statue
Situated at Mahamevnāwa Park in Anuradhapura Samadhi Buddha statue depicted in the posture of meditation associated with Lord Buddhas’ first Enlightenment. The Statue is 7’3″ in height, hewn from a single granite rock and said to have had two jewels for the eyes which are said to have gone missing in around 1914.The veracity of this is in question as the eyes are closed with no place for jewels. The canopy over the statue was constructed in 1959/60.
Mihintale
Mihintale is a mountain peak near Anuradhapura with a very broad staircase of 1840 stone steps leading to the summit of nearly 300 m. Mihintale is believed to be the site of a meeting between the Buddhist monk Mahinda and King Devanampiyatissa which inaugurated the presence of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. It is now a pilgrimage site and contains several religious monuments and abandoned structures.
Wilpattu National Park
The specialty of Wilpattu is the natural lakes in the area, also known as “Willus”. It is the largest and one of the oldest National Parks in Sri Lanka. There are approximately 30 species of mammals in the Wilpattu National Park which include the Sri Lankan Elephant, Sri Lankan Leopard, Lankan Sloth Bear, Sri, Spotted Deer, Buffalo, Sambar, and Mongoose. Wilpattu is among the top national parks world-renowned for its leopard population.