Isurumuniya Temple
About This Museum
Tucked away near the Tissa Wewa tank, Isurumuniya feels more like an ancient secret than a grand temple. It's said King Devanampiya Tissa himself established this place in the 3rd century BC, originally for some five hundred high-caste children. The main shrine is carved right into the living rock of a great granite outcrop, and you'll often hear the gentle murmur of pilgrims reciting prayers. What really captures the imagination, though, are the stone carvings scattered about—they tell stories of love, loyalty, and daily life from over two millennia ago.
Collection Highlights
You can't miss 'The Lovers', that famous carving of a man and woman in a tender embrace—it's so lifelike you almost expect them to breathe. Then there's the 'Isurumuniya Lovers', another beautiful piece showing a royal figure with his horse. And don't overlook the Man and Horse Head carving near the pond; its clean lines and powerful simplicity are just stunning.
Visitor Information
It's best to come in the cooler hours of early morning or late afternoon when the light makes the carvings glow. Remember to dress respectfully—shoulders and knees covered—as it's still a very much active place of worship. A small donation is appreciated for upkeep.
Architecture & Building
The temple is a wonderful jumble of rock-cut architecture, with its main shrine merging seamlessly into a massive granite boulder. A charming moonstone and guardian dwarves mark the entrance to one section, while a more recent white stupa sits perched on top of the rock itself.
Contact & Location
Address: Anuradhapura, Anuradhapura District, North Central Province, 50000, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 71 777 7115
