Discover the Mystique of Anuradhapura Moonstone
Explore the enchanting Anuradhapura Moonstone, a historical landmark in Sri Lanka, reflecting ancient artistry and spiritual significance.
Nestled in the heart of Anuradhapura, the Moonstone stands as a testament to the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient Sri Lankan artisans. This historical landmark, also known as 'Chandrakuta,' showcases a beautifully carved stone that was traditionally placed at the entrances of temples, symbolizing the transition from the mundane to the sacred. The intricate designs etched onto the Moonstone depict a variety of symbols, including lotus flowers, elephants, and horses, each representing significant aspects of Sri Lankan culture and spirituality. As you approach the stone, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship and the stories embedded within its carvings. Anuradhapura itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich in history and archaeological wonders. The Moonstone is just one of many attractions that draw tourists from around the globe. As you explore the surrounding area, you can visit other significant sites such as the sacred Bodhi Tree and the ancient stupas that punctuate the landscape. The atmosphere is serene, inviting visitors to reflect on the country's spiritual heritage. For those looking to delve deeper into the history, guided tours are available, providing context and insight into the significance of the Moonstone and other ancient relics. Whether you are an avid historian or simply a curious traveler, the Anuradhapura Moonstone is not to be missed as it encapsulates the essence of Sri Lanka's rich past and artistic heritage.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the site involves some walking on uneven surfaces.
- Bring a camera to capture the intricate carvings and stunning surroundings.
- Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights into the Moonstone's history.
- Respect the sacred nature of the site; maintain a quiet demeanor and dress modestly.
A brief summary to Anuradhapura Moonstone
- 99CR+HQW, B341, Anuradhapura, LK
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Car
From Kilinochchi, head south on the A9 road towards Anuradhapura. Continue on the A9 for approximately 60 km. Look for the signs indicating Anuradhapura and follow the B341 road once you reach the city. The Anuradhapura Moonstone is located at 99CR+HQW, B341, Anuradhapura. Parking is available nearby. Ensure to have cash for any potential parking fees.
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Bus
Catch a bus from Kilinochchi to Anuradhapura at the main bus terminal. Buses run frequently throughout the day, and the fare is typically around LKR 150-200. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Once you arrive at the Anuradhapura bus station, take a tuk-tuk to the Anuradhapura Moonstone, which should cost about LKR 200-300. Show the driver the address: 99CR+HQW, B341, Anuradhapura.
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Tuk-tuk
If you're already in Anuradhapura, you can hire a tuk-tuk from your location directly to the Anuradhapura Moonstone. Make sure to negotiate the fare beforehand; it should cost around LKR 200-300 depending on the distance. Provide the driver with the address: 99CR+HQW, B341, Anuradhapura.
Attractions Nearby to Anuradhapura Moonstone
- Rathna Prasadaya | මුරගල
- Main Refectory of Abayagiri Monastery - අභයගිරි ප්රධාන දාන ශාලාව
- Elephant Pond ඇත් පොකුණ
- Abhayagiriya
- Abhayagiriya Buddha Mandiraya
- ජටිල මාවත
- Abhayagiri Vihara Dewalaya
- Relic Shrine of Abhayagiriya - අභයගිරිය ධාතු මන්දිරය
- Square Stupa Abhayagiri Monastery
- Yathuru Pokuna
- අභයගිරි කෞතුකාගාරය - Abhayagiri Museum
- Lankaramaya | ලංකාරාමය
- Samadhi Buddha Statue
- Image House, West of Abhayagiri
- Twin ponds (කුට්ටම් පොකුණ)
Landmarks nearby to Anuradhapura Moonstone
- Tamil Householder's Inscription (දමිළ ගෘහපති ලිපිය)
- උත්තරමූළය - අභයගිරිය
- North Pond [ උතුරු පොකුණ ]
- Main Image House
- Pūraṇa Bhikkuṇī Upāsaya පූරණ භික්ෂුණී උපාසය
- Samuddhagiri Vihara Monastery
- King Dutugemunu Pillar දුටුගැමුණු ශිලා ස්ථම්භය
- Unidentified structure
- Ancient Round Well ඓතිහාසික වට පොකුණ
- Vijayarama Archaeological Site - විජයාරාම පුරාවිද්යා ස්ථානය
- Ancient Lavetory Complex - පුරාණ වැසිකිලි සංකීර්ණය
- Buddhist Railing
- Singha Kanuwa, සිංහ කනුව - Anuradhapura
- Isurumuni Royal Temple
- Isurumuniya clock Tower ඉසුරුමුණිය ඔරලෝසු කණුව