Vessagiriya: A Serene Buddhist Sanctuary
Explore the tranquil beauty and rich history of Vessagiriya, a stunning Buddhist temple complex in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
Nestled in the heart of Anuradhapura, Vessagiriya is a stunning Buddhist temple complex that offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich spiritual and historical heritage. With its ancient rock carvings, serene surroundings, and peaceful atmosphere, it is an ideal destination for tourists seeking tranquility and cultural enrichment.
A brief summary to Vessagiriya | වෙස්සගිරිය - අනුරාධපුරය
- Vessagiriya, Anuradhapura - Padeniya Hwy, Anuradhapura, 50000, LK
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the serene atmosphere and avoid crowds.
- Wear modest clothing as this is a sacred site; cover your shoulders and knees.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities nearby.
- Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the temple's history.
- Allow time to explore the nearby meditation caves for a complete experience.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from the Anuradhapura Railway Station, exit the station and head southwest on Anuradhapura - Padeniya Hwy. Continue walking straight for about 3.5 kilometers. You will pass several local shops and eateries along the way. Keep an eye out for the signs that indicate Vessagiriya, which is on your right. The site is located at Vessagiriya, Anuradhapura - Padeniya Hwy, Anuradhapura 50000.
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Walking
From the Anuradhapura Bus Station, exit the station and head onto Anuradhapura - Padeniya Hwy. Walk for approximately 2.5 kilometers in the direction of Padeniya. You will cross a few intersections; stay on the main road. Look for a sign indicating Vessagiriya on your right. The temple complex is situated about 500 meters from the main highway, so follow the path leading to the site.
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Bicycle
If you have rented a bicycle, start from the city center near the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa. Cycle north on the Anuradhapura - Padeniya Hwy for about 5 kilometers. Enjoy the scenic views and local culture along the way. You will notice signs directing you to Vessagiriya. As you approach, take the right turn toward the temple area, which is located just off the main highway.
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Tuk-Tuk
For a quicker option, hire a tuk-tuk from anywhere in Anuradhapura. Tell the driver you want to go to Vessagiriya. The ride should take around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. The driver will know the exact location and drop you off right at the entrance of the site.
Discover more about Vessagiriya | වෙස්සගිරිය - අනුරාධපුරය
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Isurumuni Royal Temple
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Isurumuniya clock Tower ඉසුරුමුණිය ඔරලෝසු කණුව
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Kubura Resort
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Dahaiyagama Junction Roundabout දාහයියාගම හංදිය වටරවුම
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Anuradhapura Newtown
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Ancient Round Well ඓතිහාසික වට පොකුණ
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Samuddhagiri Vihara Monastery
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King Dutugemunu Pillar දුටුගැමුණු ශිලා ස්ථම්භය
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Singha Kanuwa, සිංහ කනුව - Anuradhapura
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North Central Provincial Council Administrative Building Complex
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Buddhist Railing
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Pūraṇa Bhikkuṇī Upāsaya පූරණ භික්ෂුණී උපාසය
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Royal palace of the anuradhapura kingdom
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Unmissable attractions to see
Bodhigharaya
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Wessagiriya
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Isurumuniya museum
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Isurumuniya Temple
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පූජා නගරය | View Point
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Castle Manor - Anuradhapura
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Star Gate - Ranmasu Uyana
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Malwathu Oya Reservoir Dam
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Ranmasu Uyana (Royal Park)
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Dakkhina Stupa - Anuradhapura
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Anuradhapura New Town
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Mirisawetiya Temple
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TUK TUK Hithawath Darme
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Mirisawetiya
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Maha Viharaya, Anuradhapura
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Essential places to dine
Ambula Restaurant Anuradhapura ඇඹුල අනුරාධපුර
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Alankulama Restaurant අලන්කුලම රෙස්ටුරන්ට්
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Golden Mango Indian Restaurant
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Seedevi Family Restaurant
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Myburger Family Restaurant
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Diyatha Restaurant and Bakers ( දියත )
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Garden Cafe
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Casserole Restaurant
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CTC Bunglow Anuradhapura
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Rajarata Hotel රජරට හෝටලය
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Chamy Restaurant New Bus Stand
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Delicasy Restaurant & Bakers
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Barna's cafe and restaurant
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Mr. Karapincha (Mr.කරපිංචා )
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Food hub
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Samudra Book Shop - Anuradhapura
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Lovers capital lovers item
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The Lover - Anuradhapura 02
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US Fashion - Anuradhapura
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DRESS HUB
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Usha Factory Excess (Pvt)Ltd
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Hanger
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Eiffel Complex
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Arpico Daily - Anuradhapura
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Banana Cafe, Coffee shop
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The Factory
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G & G
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GIFT CEYLON
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ASB Fashion
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sooriya Wessagiri Resort
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Mihira Wine Stores
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D night restaurant
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Massina Beer Garden
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Hotel White House Anuradhapura
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White House Poolside Restaurant Anuradhapura
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Creston Park
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Danawwa Restaurant & Juice Bar
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Juice Bar
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sampath Juice Bar
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Dabulla
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Restaurant & bar
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Hudo Lounge
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Poshana Mandiraya Ayurvedic Hospital Anuradhapura
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