The Majestic Vaulted Vihara: A Hidden Gem in Anuradhapura
Discover the serene beauty and historical significance of the Vaulted Vihara, a stunning image house reflecting the rich Buddhist heritage of Anuradhapura.
A brief summary to Vaulted Vihara (Gedige) Image House of Anuradhapura - අනුරාධපුර ගෙඩිගේ ප්‍රතිමා ගෘහය
- 9C62+5Q9, Anuradhapura, LK
Nestled within the historical precincts of Anuradhapura, the Vaulted Vihara, also known as Gedige, stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of ancient Sri Lanka. This image house, constructed with a unique vaulted design, showcases the craftsmanship and devotion that has been preserved through centuries. As you approach the structure, you'll be captivated by its elegant form and the serene ambiance that envelops the site, making it a perfect spot for contemplation and photography. Upon entering the Vihara, visitors are greeted by the sight of intricate carvings and statues that tell the stories of Buddhist teachings and lore. The atmosphere inside is tranquil, allowing for a moment of reflection on the spiritual significance of this sacred space. It is an ideal location for those seeking to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Sri Lankan history while enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The Vihara is often less crowded compared to other tourist attractions, providing a more intimate experience with the past. For history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike, the Vaulted Vihara serves as a crucial link to understanding the religious practices and architectural innovations of the ancient Sinhalese. As you wander through this historical site, you will not only witness the beauty of its structure but also feel the profound sense of peace that has lingered here for generations. Whether you are a devoted Buddhist or simply an admirer of ancient architecture, a visit to the Vaulted Vihara promises to be a memorable experience.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and to enjoy the peacefulness of the site.
- Dress modestly to respect the sanctity of this religious site.
- Take your time to explore the intricate carvings and statues inside the Vihara.
- Bring a camera, as the architecture and landscape offer stunning photo opportunities.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Anuradhapura Railway Station, exit the station and turn right onto Anuradhapura Road. Continue straight for about 1 kilometer until you reach the junction with the 4th Lane. Turn left onto 4th Lane and walk for approximately 500 meters. You will see the main entrance to the sacred city area. Once inside, follow the signs towards the Ruwanwelisseya Stupa. Keep walking straight for about 1.5 kilometers, passing the stupa on your left. Continue straight until you reach the junction with the 2nd Lane. Turn right here, and after about 300 meters, you will find the Vaulted Vihara (Gedige) Image House on your left.
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Bicycle Rental
If you prefer cycling, you can rent a bicycle from one of the rental shops near the Anuradhapura Railway Station. From the station, head east on Anuradhapura Road for 1 kilometer, then take a left on 4th Lane. Cycle straight into the sacred city area and follow the same route as outlined for walking. The bike ride will take approximately 15 minutes. When you reach the Ruwanwelisseya Stupa, continue along the path until the junction with 2nd Lane, turn right, and the Vaulted Vihara will be on your left after about 300 meters.
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Tuk-Tuk
You can hire a tuk-tuk from various points in Anuradhapura. Ask the driver to take you to the Vaulted Vihara (Gedige) Image House. A typical fare from the town center should cost around 300 to 500 LKR. The ride will take approximately 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Once you arrive, the tuk-tuk can drop you off right at the entrance.
Attractions Nearby to Vaulted Vihara (Gedige) Image House of Anuradhapura - අනුරාධපුර ගෙඩිගේ ප්‍රතිමා ගෘහය
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Dalada Maligawa Anuradhapura - අනුරාධපුර පුරාණ දළදා මාලිගාව
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Mahapali Refectory
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Nakha Vehera
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Thuparama Alms Hall ථූපාරාම දාන ශාලාව
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Thuparamaya
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Thimbiri Pokuna - තිඹිරි පොකුණ
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Image House of Jethawanaramaya - ජේතවනාරාම පිළිම ගෙය
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Jethawanarama Pilima Geya - ජේතවනාරාමය පිළිම ගෙය
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Jethawanaramaya
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අභයගිරි කෞතුකාගාරය - Abhayagiri Museum
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Ruwanweli Maha Seya Viewing Point
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Yathuru Pokuna
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Samadhi Buddha Statue
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Jethawanarama Monastery Complex
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Twin ponds (කුට්ටම් පොකුණ)
Landmarks nearby to Vaulted Vihara (Gedige) Image House of Anuradhapura - අනුරාධපුර ගෙඩිගේ ප්‍රතිමා ගෘහය
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Pūraṇa Bhikkuṇī Upāsaya පූරණ භික්ෂුණී උපාසය
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Buddhist Railing
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King Dutugemunu Pillar දුටුගැමුණු ශිලා ස්ථම්භය
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Ancient Round Well ඓතිහාසික වට පොකුණ
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Main Image House
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Samuddhagiri Vihara Monastery
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Ancient Lavetory Complex - පුරාණ වැසිකිලි සංකීර්ණය
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උත්තරමූළය - අභයගිරිය
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Unidentified structure
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North Pond [ උතුරු පොකුණ ]
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Lovamahapaya | ලෝවාමහාපාය
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Archaeological Museum, Anuradhapura
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Tamil Householder's Inscription (දමිළ ගෘහපති ලිපිය)
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Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
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Maha Viharaya, Anuradhapura