Today, we traveled from Kandy to Anuradhapura, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka. The drive became a bit cramped, as we had to replace our large bus with two vans.
After nearly five hours on the road, we finally arrived at Sadula Holiday Resort where we will stay for the next two nights. Further, we started exploring the city’s historic sites. Some of us did it by one of the vans, while others chose to cycle.
Our first stop was the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a fig tree believed to be a sapling from the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. Planted in 288 BC, it is considered the oldest living human-planted tree in the world with a known planting date. Our guide also gave us a brief introduction to Buddhism. For example, he talked about how reincarnation and karma are connected, and how what we do in this life can affect our future lives. He also explained that the goal for Buddhists is to achieve nirvana, a state of freedom from suffering and desire.
The guide showed us many lilies layed out and explained that they symbolize purity and are used as offerings to the Buddha. He mentioned that water lilies are also the national flower of Sri Lanka. Following tradition, we walked clockwise around the ancient fig tree, a gesture believed to bring good luck.
Further, we visited the Kuttam Pokuna, or Twin Ponds, remarkable examples of ancient Sinhalese engineering. These pools were used by monks for ritual baths and showcase the advanced hydrological knowledge of the time.
Anuradhapura, established around a cutting from the ‘tree of enlightenment’ brought there in the 3rd century B.C., was a political and religious capital that flourished for 1,300 years before being abaundoned after an invasion in 993. Hidden away in dense jungle for many years, the splendid site, with its palaces, monasteries, and monuments, is now accessible once again.
Group 4 - Venera, Oliwia, Any og Kaja
