The ancient city of Anuradhapura is one large open-air archaeological site, scattered with stupas, ruined monasteries, sacred trees, and ancient bathing tanks across several square kilometres. The main monuments — the Sri Maha Bodhi, Ruwanwelisaya, Jetavanarama, Abhayagiri, Thuparamaya, and Isurumuniya — are spread over several kilometres, so hiring a bicycle at the guesthouse is the standard approach. Allow a full day for the highlights; serious visitors spend two.
Entry to the Sacred City zone requires a combined ticket, sold at the main entrances near Jetavanarama and the Archaeological Museum. The ticket covers most of the ruins but Sri Maha Bodhi and the active temples charge separately. Modest dress (shoulders and knees covered) is required at all the active religious sites; the Sri Maha Bodhi enforces this strictly.