Historical background
Founded by King Devanampiyatissa in the 3rd century BCE for 500 newly-ordained monks of high caste. Famous for the 6th-century 'Isurumuniya Lovers' rock carving — among the most celebrated sculptures of ancient Sri Lanka.
Religious significance
Atamasthana adjacent rock temple and one of the most artistically refined sites in Anuradhapura.
Visitor experience
Cool cave shrine cut into living rock, lotus pond at the entrance and exquisite Gupta-style sculptures in the small on-site museum.
Things to do
- ✦See the Isurumuniya Lovers carving
- ✦Climb the rock for sunset over the tank
- ✦Walk the surrounding Tissa Wewa bund
