Explore the Historic Image House near Abhayagiri
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of the Image House, an ancient landmark near Abhayagiri in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
A brief summary to Image House, West of Abhayagiri
- 99CX+389, Anuradhapura, LK
The Image House, situated west of the famed Abhayagiri Stupa in Anuradhapura, is an exquisite example of Sri Lanka's ancient architecture and artistry. This historical landmark dates back to the Anuradhapura period and served as a repository for numerous Buddha statues, reflecting the deep-rooted Buddhist traditions that permeate the region. Visitors are often awe-inspired by the intricate carvings and the serene ambiance that surrounds this site, making it an ideal spot for contemplation and reflection. As you explore the Image House, be sure to take in the remarkable stonework and the vibrant history that each statue embodies. The surrounding lush greenery adds to the tranquil atmosphere, creating a peaceful retreat away from the busyness of modern life. Photographers will find this location particularly enchanting, as the interplay of light and shadows against the ancient stones provides endless opportunities for striking imagery. While visiting, consider the importance of this site in the context of Sri Lanka's cultural heritage. It's not just a place to see; it's a place to feel the weight of history and the spirituality that lingers in the air. The Image House is not just a landmark; it’s a window into the past, offering insights into the artistic expressions and religious beliefs of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. Whether you are a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or simply a curious traveler, the Image House is a captivating destination that invites you to delve into the rich tapestry of Sri Lankan history.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and better lighting for photos.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enrich your understanding of the site's historical significance.
- Respect the cultural practices by dressing modestly when exploring this sacred site.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in the center of Anuradhapura, start at the Anuradhapura Railway Station. Exit the station and head north on Station Road. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with Maithreepala Senanayake Mawatha. Turn left onto Maithreepala Senanayake Mawatha and walk for about 1 kilometer until you reach the junction with Anuradhapura - Mihintale Road. At this junction, turn right onto Anuradhapura - Mihintale Road. After approximately 500 meters, you will see a sign for Abhayagiri Dagoba on your left. Follow the path leading into the Abhayagiri complex. Continue walking straight, and you will find Image House located just west of the Abhayagiri Dagoba, which is marked at coordinates 99CX+389.
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Bicycle
From the Anuradhapura Railway Station, rent a bicycle from one of the local shops. Start by heading north on Station Road and then turn left onto Maithreepala Senanayake Mawatha. Continue cycling for about 1 kilometer until you reach the Anuradhapura - Mihintale Road. Turn right here, and after about 500 meters, look for the sign to Abhayagiri Dagoba on your left. Follow the path into the Abhayagiri complex. Once inside, cycle straight through the complex towards the Abhayagiri Dagoba, located at coordinates 99CX+389. The Image House will be situated just to the west of the Dagoba.
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Tuk-Tuk
To reach Image House using a tuk-tuk, find a tuk-tuk stand near the Anuradhapura Railway Station or ask your hotel to arrange one for you. Inform the driver that you want to go to Abhayagiri Dagoba. The ride should take around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Once the tuk-tuk drops you off at the Abhayagiri complex, walk towards the Abhayagiri Dagoba. Image House is located just west of the Dagoba at coordinates 99CX+389.
Attractions Nearby to Image House, West of Abhayagiri
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Samadhi Buddha Statue
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Twin ponds (කුට්ටම් පොකුණ)
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Abhayagiriya
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Abhayagiriya Buddha Mandiraya
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Abhayagiri Vihara Dewalaya
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Yathuru Pokuna
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අභයගිරි කෞතුකාගාරය - Abhayagiri Museum
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Anuradhapura Moonstone
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Main Refectory of Abayagiri Monastery - අභයගිරි ප්රධාන දාන ශාලාව
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Rathna Prasadaya | මුරගල
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Relic Shrine of Abhayagiriya - අභයගිරිය ධාතු මන්දිරය
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Elephant Pond ඇත් පොකුණ
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Lankaramaya | ලංකාරාමය
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Square Stupa Abhayagiri Monastery
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ජටිල මාවත
Landmarks nearby to Image House, West of Abhayagiri
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North Pond [ උතුරු පොකුණ ]
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උත්තරමූළය - අභයගිරිය
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Main Image House
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Tamil Householder's Inscription (දමිළ ගෘහපති ලිපිය)
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Pūraṇa Bhikkuṇī Upāsaya පූරණ භික්ෂුණී උපාසය
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Samuddhagiri Vihara Monastery
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King Dutugemunu Pillar දුටුගැමුණු ශිලා ස්ථම්භය
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Ancient Round Well ඓතිහාසික වට පොකුණ
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Unidentified structure
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Buddhist Railing
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Ancient Lavetory Complex - පුරාණ වැසිකිලි සංකීර්ණය
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Vijayarama Archaeological Site - විජයාරාම පුරාවිද්යා ස්ථානය
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Jetavanarama Museum
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Anuradhapura Unesco Signage
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Archaeological Museum, Anuradhapura