Archaeological Museum, Anuradhapura image

Archaeological Museum, Anuradhapura

Tourist attraction Museum Archaeological museum

👍👍 Nice place to visit near Anuradhapura sacred city. Collection of Stone , wooden relics , coins and 3D models of relics are available . There is seperate section of stone manuscripts . Supportive staff . Video and discriptive wall hangins available People often mention Anuradhapura, museum, history, visit, Lanka, ancient, Museum, good, building, artifacts,


Address

89WV+XCH, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Website

www.archaeology.gov.lk

Contact

+94 253 856 564

Rating on Google Maps

4.20 (241 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: 9 AM to 4 PM
  • Thursday: 9 AM to 4 PM
  • Friday: 9 AM to 4 PM
  • Saturday: 9 AM to 4 PM
  • Sunday: 9 AM to 4 PM
  • Monday: 9 AM to 4 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: Anuradhapura (28) museum (26) history (15) visit (11) Lanka (11) ancient (11) Museum (11) good (10) building (10) artifacts (9)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Supun L. 3 years ago on Google • 423 reviews
    Nice place to visit near Anuradhapura sacred city. Collection of Stone , wooden relics , coins and 3D models of relics are available . There is seperate section of stone manuscripts . Supportive staff . Video and discriptive wall hangins available
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amali H. 1 year ago on Google • 42 reviews
    You should never miss this in your next trip to Anuradhapura. The staff is very good, informative and humble. A trip to the museum adds more value to your tour. They even have a corner for kids, where they can engage in enrichment activities like doing puzzles and drawing, while the adults can relax a bit...
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Janaka W. 4 years ago on Google
    The old British colonial administration building has recently been renovated and has an interesting collection of artwork, carvings and everyday items from Anuradhapura and other historic sites around Sri Lanka. Exhibits include a restored relic chamber, found during the excavation of the Kantaka Chetiya dagoba at nearby Mihintale, and a large-scale model of Thuparama Dagoba’s vatadage (circular relic house) as it might have been if a wooden roof had existed.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Ruwan E. 3 months ago on Google • 121 reviews New
    A place where you can learn about art , culture and talents of ancient Sri Lanka. Free for locals . No guides available. Better if the archeological department can provide pre records at least. Will take about 2hrs to cover.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Virajith S. 9 months ago on Google • 89 reviews
    Title: A Fascinating Journey through History at the Archaeological Museum, Anuradhapura! #ArchaeologicalMuseum #Anuradhapura Review: I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Archaeological Museum in Anuradhapura, and I must say it was an incredibly captivating experience. The museum provided a mesmerizing journey through the rich history and cultural heritage of Anuradhapura. Upon entering the museum, I was immediately struck by its well-maintained and organized displays. The artifacts and exhibits were thoughtfully arranged, allowing visitors to easily navigate through the different eras and learn about the fascinating history of Anuradhapura. The museum staff's dedication to preserving and showcasing these historical treasures was evident. The Archaeological Museum truly served as a window into the glorious past of Anuradhapura. From ancient statues and intricate carvings to delicate pottery and priceless relics, the museum's collection was awe-inspiring. Each artifact seemed to tell a story, providing a glimpse into the lives of the people who once inhabited this ancient city. Not only was the museum rich in historical artifacts, but it also provided a serene and calm environment for exploration. The quiet atmosphere allowed visitors to immerse themselves in the exhibits, fostering a sense of reverence and appreciation for the cultural heritage of Anuradhapura. The knowledgeable and friendly staff at the museum added to the overall experience. They were eager to share insights and answer any questions, enhancing my understanding of the exhibits. Their passion for the history of Anuradhapura was contagious, making the visit even more rewarding. If you have an interest in history and culture, I highly recommend visiting the Archaeological Museum in Anuradhapura. It's a treasure trove of knowledge and a testament to the rich heritage of Sri Lanka. Prepare to be amazed by the captivating artifacts, the peaceful ambiance, and the profound sense of history that envelops this remarkable museum. #ArchaeologicalMuseum #Anuradhapura #HistoricalJourney #CulturalHeritage #AncientArtifacts
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sampath S. 5 years ago on Google
    Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum is one of the archaeological museums of Sri Lanka. It is situated in the old kachcheri building, between the Brazon palace and Ruwanwelisaya. The museum was established in 1947 under the prime effort of Dr. Senarath Paranavithana.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Konrad B. 5 years ago on Google
    Some old stone artifacts, but without any English explanations so they are devoid of meaning. There is a new building being built on the property, perhaps that will be an improvement so take my two stars with a pinch of salt. Note: Tourist fee for the entire area is payable at the entrance to the museum, but apparently the museum is free.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Himashi K. 3 years ago on Google
    Archaeological museum..There are sculptures, Ruins,Ancient coins in this museum...We can learn about history of Sri Lanka...👍👍👍👍
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Thisuka T. 3 years ago on Google
    👍👍👍👍
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Janindu P. 3 years ago on Google
    Good but not allowed to take photographs
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 vimukthi k. 4 years ago on Google
    👍👍
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Taraka S. 5 months ago on Google • 119 reviews
    Why people miss this place while come to Anuradhapura... there are lot of statues to be seen... statues of buddh, Siva, parwathi, and Eeshwara are amazing... so many inscriptions... some statues of lord Buddha doesn't get much protection and sad to see that....

  • 5/5 Dilum P. 1 month ago on Google • 73 reviews New
    A must visit place for everyone visiting Anuradhapura. There is a lot to learn here, especially for children. Many of the Anuradhapura era ruins are displayed here. Contains many valuable artefacts. Entry is free of charge. Artifacts are housed in a two-story building. Many of the building ruins are displayed in the courtyard. A place to visit with great restraint. You have to park on the road in front of the museum and enter. Located in a dark environment. There is a panel of employees who provide friendly service. A must see for young children.

  • 5/5 Sajini C. 5 months ago on Google • 70 reviews
    It's a good place to discover Sri Lankan heritage. And it's free entry for Sri Lankan. Also as per the employees of the museum, entrance free for foreigners.

  • 5/5 kisura w. 4 years ago on Google • 57 reviews
    This is good place to learn about history of sri lanka and so many stelas you can see hear.but in these days(01.06.2019) this place is on a reconstruction.and you can take photos inside

  • 3/5 Janith Y. 1 month ago on Google • 40 reviews New
    People always miss valuable things.

  • 5/5 Tharushini M. 2 months ago on Google • 15 reviews New
    I went this place with my mother. We have got know more details about findings and related ancient history. Thanks Mr. Chintaka and other staff for your explonations.

  • 1/5 samantha w. 5 months ago on Google • 15 reviews
    We can see a lots of artifacts then we can easier to realize the how about the history of Sri Lanka

  • 4/5 kafka t. 1 year ago on Google • 13 reviews
    There are a lot of historical information regarding the anicient Anuradhalura arnachy in the museum such as how it affected the city plan and temple design and its background. Its worth to go there. You should be noticed that it is not allowed to the photo inside the musemum and its free entrance.

  • 3/5 mahinda P. 5 years ago on Google
    Good to visit

  • 5/5 Isuru U. 2 years ago on Google
    They are very friendly and knowledgeable people. Just talk with staff if you need further clarification of the history.

  • 5/5 SAMEERA F. 2 years ago on Google
    It's good please You can see that free

  • 2/5 Devashan K. 1 year ago on Google
    Actually, the place is very good and informative. However, maintenance is nil. The building, which contains a lot of stone inscriptions of kings, was not at all maintained. It's unfortunate to see those.

  • 5/5 Polo Ft P. 4 years ago on Google
    Gain your knowledge here.

  • 2/5 Anil B. 1 year ago on Google
    Lots of things to see with ancient values, seems lacking maitainance 😔

  • 1/5 Fabio S. 4 years ago on Google
    Do not buy the tickets here! It is a tourist scam! We bought the horrendously overpriced tickets for all the sites in anuradhapura here but actually never needed it as all of the sites are actually free! The museum itself is extremely poorly maintained with people burning plastic on the premises. Avoid

  • 4/5 ishantha h. 1 year ago on Google
    A huge collection of archeological artifacts, in different sections. Staff is supportive if you need to clarify the things but I highly doubt their knowledge is adequate to explain everything. But they are really supportive. You better prepare yourselves with some information before you go into it. I find it is lack of relevant information and poor presentation of information which would make the visitors feel quite disappointed or bored 🥱

  • 5/5 Jeeven A. 1 year ago on Google
    Dont forget to visit the Museum when you holidaying at Anuradhapura. You can see new and old both museum

  • 5/5 Rajaka J. 1 year ago on Google
    There are many historical valuable sources to study

  • 1/5 Tessa L. 5 years ago on Google
    The museum building is currently being renovated. There are stone antiquities in the grounds that you can see, but with very little context. But you can buy the US$25 tickets for Anuradhapura at the gate.

  • 2/5 A K. 5 years ago on Google
    Quite run down with no proper guidance and terrible maintenance.

  • 5/5 sankalpa a. 8 months ago on Google
    One of the best Museum at Anuradhapura, Good collection items mainly located in one main building with enough information. Instructors also available. Items from Anuradhapura, Polonaruwa and Kandy kingdom era are available. Other building contain 'sel lipi' (stone inscriptions) with meaning in Sinhala language. Must visit place, and entrance was free.

  • 5/5 Likitha L. 11 months ago on Google
    Best place to see archeological evidences in Anuradhapura Kingdom. Very informative. Clean and well organized place. No tickets needed.

  • 5/5 Udana C. 1 year ago on Google
    Museum displays artifacts from golden ages of Sri Lanka. Must visit place. Sadly it was empty of visitors

  • 5/5 Pradeepa K. 4 years ago on Google
    It's good, but we haven't seen the Christian Cross there.😓

  • 5/5 Welgamp W. 4 years ago on Google
    Close proximity to habitat of the (Panthera pardus kotiya )Sri Lankan Tiger

  • 5/5 Lashan M. 4 years ago on Google
    Very important place to know about our history.

  • 5/5 Yasith R. 4 years ago on Google
    You cammn witness the glory of the ancient people work over there

  • 5/5 Kasun U. 4 years ago on Google
    Good place to visit if you go to Anuradhapura. Now they have open on Sundays also. Very good place for students. You can get a good knowledge of history if you visit there. Camers are not allowed to use inside the museum. Free for locals. Newly renovated.

  • 5/5 Nalaka Wickramasingha S. 4 years ago on Google
    It's telling ancient wellness of Sri Lanka

  • 5/5 David D. 4 years ago on Google
    🦁🌀⭐

  • 4/5 Vanessa B. 4 years ago on Google
    Really well maintained museum with English explanations boards. One of the staff members joined us and explained some of findings. Worth visiting.

  • 5/5 Dinesh K. 4 years ago on Google
    Good work for student

  • 3/5 Vitaliy K. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) The museum is so-so, there is nothing to watch objectively, most of the exposure is a photo, like a big minus, lack of toilets (Original) Музей так себе, смотреть объективно нечего, большая часть экспозиции это фото, как большой минус, отсутсвие туалетов

  • 5/5 taro s. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Very nice place. (Original) Tempat yang sangat bagus.

  • 5/5 Lasitha Yapa B. 3 years ago on Google
    Excellent place. Can learn a lot

  • 5/5 Prashanth R. 4 years ago on Google
    Awesome

  • 5/5 Marlon P. 4 years ago on Google
    Great collect of ancient srilankan artifacts from Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa eras. Friendly and knowledgeable staff.

  • 5/5 Marlon P. 4 years ago on Google
    Great collection of ancient artifacts from Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa era.Very friendly & informative staff.

  • 5/5 clément D. 4 years ago on Google
    A great museum from stone ages to first world war Armenia. I spent 3h there and i had to run for the last half.

  • 1/5 Dulith S. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) She (Original) Ela

  • 5/5 Yanuka P. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) If you go to Anuradhapura it is a good place to visit. It is currently open on Sundays. A very good place for students. If you go there, you can deepen your knowledge of history. The use of cammers in the museum is not permitted. Free for locals. Newly refurbished. (Original) アヌラーダプラに行くなら訪れるのに良い場所です。現在、日曜日も営業しています。学生にはとても良い場所です。そこに行けば歴史についての知識を深めることができます。博物館内でのキャマーの使用は許可されていません。地元の人は無料。新しく改装されました。

  • 5/5 ඇස 4 years ago on Google
    😍😍😍😍😍

  • 5/5 Kasun D. 4 years ago on Google
    The best history memories in anuradapura

  • 4/5 nadeesh w. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Lots of shell inscriptions (Original) සෙල් ලිපි රාශියක්

  • 4/5 Shanaka P. 4 years ago on Google
    Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum (Also known as Puravidu Bhavana) is one of the archaeological museums of Sri Lanka. It is situated in the old kachcheri building, between the Brazon palace and Ruwanwelisaya. The museum was established in 1947 under the prime effort of Dr. Senarath Paranavithana. Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum is one of the oldest museum in the Cultural Triangle area and it has been proposed to name as the National Museum of the Department of Archaeology of Sri Lanka. The museum is used to exhibit antiquities found from various regions of Sri Lanka. Such as Buddha statues, inscriptions, drawings, puppets, coins, jewelleries, Beads and other miscellaneous things. Among these antiquities there is a model of the Thuparamaya Vatadage and a relic chamber found at Mihintale Kantaka Chetiya Dagoba. many ancient stuff available here.

  • 3/5 Chulaa S. 4 years ago on Google
    It's under repair and hence not displayed properly.

  • 5/5 Hector K. 5 years ago on Google
    Nice

  • 4/5 Pamu 5 years ago on Google
    This place has under reform.

  • 3/5 Harikumar K. 5 years ago on Google
    Many stones with inscriptions in Brahmi , Pali and old Singhalese language found here. Also statues and ancient toilets. However there is no system to explain them to visitors. No notices or guides.

  • 3/5 Annie Augustus J. 5 years ago on Google
    It is just ok.

  • 5/5 kamal s. 5 years ago on Google
    Can get ideas about Sri Lankan history


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