Isurumuniya is a Buddhist temple situated near the Tissa Wewa in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. There are four carvings of special interest in this Vihara. They are the Isurumuniya Lovers, Elephant Pond and The Royal Family. This is the place where the mythical Pulasthi Rishi was said to live and the place in which the mythical King Ravana was born. The temple was built by King Devanampiya Tissa (307 BC 267 BC) who ruled in the ancient Sri Lankan capital of Anuradhapura. After 500 children of high-caste were ordained, Isurumuniya was built for them to reside. King Kasyapa I (473-491 AD) again renovated this viharaya and named it "Boupulvan, Kasubgiri Radmaha Vehera". This name is derived from the names of his 2 daughters and his name. There is a viharaya connected to a cave and above is a cliff. A small stupa is built on it. It can be seen that the construction work of this stupa belongs to the present period. Lower down on both sides of a cleft, in a rock that appears to rise out of a pool, have been carved the figures of elephants. On the rock is carved the figure of a horse. The carving of Isurumuniya lovers on the slab has been brought from another place and placed there. A few yards away from this vihara is the Ranmasu Uyana.

This is Buddhist temple located in Anuradhapura. That was first Temple-tooth. This very popular among tourists because of that loving couple statues and Buddhist temple. That temple is renovating by assuring there ancient values. That Loads Buddha statue is very beautiful and attractive. That tank and rock is adding additional value for that temple.

Isurumuniya Rajamaha Viharaya is an ancient Buddhist temple located in Anuradhapura and it is an very extremely beautiful place. Many ancient structures can be seen in Isurumuniya.The world famous "Isurumuni Lovers" and "Elephant Pond" are among of them. So,I invite you to visit Isurumuniya and see its beauty if you are going to visit Anuradhapura.

One fine piece of history One important thing - to enter the premises we must wear long clothings such as trowsers or long skirts You will not be allowed in with a shorts or knee length skirt The clothing must be below the knee level

This temple is located near to Thissa wewa in Anuradhapura North central province in sri Lanka 🇱🇰 Isurumuniya lovers carving and Elephant pond are the significant things belong to Isurumuniya temple and also Man with horse carving is a special carving.

Really cool castle inside a rock plus museum with a few large sculptures dating bac to 4_8 century AC

There is something that's earthly, humble, tranquil about this place. The stairs carved into the rock, the large pond (which was probably filled with clear water), the beautiful carvings all create a really nice, historical atmosphere. You can "feel" the history when you look around. I recommend going early morning or evening, because the rocks get hot and you might burn your feet. Other than that, it's really nice.

A popular stop for tourists, and easily seen within half an hour. Be sure to wear long pants, or long shorts. If too much leg shows, they will make you cover up before going in. Also, when taking pictures be careful not to have your back to the temple (stand sideways). The guards were very particular when we were there and came running over and yelled at someone who was standing with their back to the temple.

Isurumuniya (ඉසුරුමුණිය) is a Buddhist temple situated near to the Tisa tank (තිසා වැව) in Anuradhapura.Isurumuniya is famous for its stone carvings, and the one known as “ Isurumuniya Lovers (ඉසුරුමුණියේ පෙම් යුවල) ” is the most-admired and world famous.The other carvings are of the horseman, elephant pond and the royal family.This is a place where you can learn about the history if Sri Lanka, the ancient technology and art, architecture and Buddhist culture.

A famous temple and museum situated in Anuradhapura, 200 kms away from Colombo, Sri Lanka, is popular for "Isurumuniya Lovers" made out of a stone. The Isurumujiya said to be built by King Devansmpiya Tissa. Behind this another location called Ranmasu Uyana could be visited.

🏰💕 **A Tale of Love: Prince Saliya & Asokamala** 🌟🌸 This place resonates with the poignant love story of Prince Saliya, who chose love over his throne to be with his low-caste lover, Asokamala. The stone carvings of the loving couple are a captivating sight and a testament to their extraordinary love. 🏺💑 Additionally, the site is renowned for the famous "Isurumuniya Lovers" stone carvings, now housed in the archeological museum within the temple. 🗿🏛️ Before entering, visitors must leave their shoes and remove their hats as a sign of respect. However, the temperatures can become unbearable during lunchtime, especially since the place is built on a rock, intensifying the heat. To avoid discomfort, it's advisable to visit in the early morning or evening. 🕰️🔆 From the top of the rocks, one can enjoy beautiful views of the nearby tank, Thissa Wewa. And don't forget to climb up to the bunt of Thissa Wewa tank to have amazing feel. 🏞️🚣‍♀️ However, it's important to note that there are no facilities for wheelchair accessibility, and security and donations collection occur at the entrance. The place tends to get crowded on Poya Days. 🚷💰 With a sizeable car park available, visitors can park their vehicles free of charge but should be cautious not to park near trees due to the abundance of mischievous monkeys who might cause damage. 🚗🐒 For history enthusiasts and romantics alike, this place offers a unique experience worth cherishing. 💖🏰 If you found this review helpful, please consider marking it as such to encourage more elaborative reviews. 🙏😊

Peaceful and calm location. There is a small rock to climb which having a nice view of the entire area. Dress up white if possible before going to this sacred place.

The ancient Meghagiri Vihara or Meygiri Vihara is presently identified as the Isurumuni Vihara. It was built by King Devanampiya Tissa (307 BC to 267 BC) who ruled in the ancient Sri Lankan capital of Anuradhapura l. After 500 children of high-caste were ordained, Isurumuniya was built for them to reside. King Kasyapa I (473-491 AD) again renovated this viharaya and named it as "Boupulvan, Kasubgiri Radmaha Vehera" giving the names of his 2 daughters and his name. There is a viharaya connected to a cave and above is a cliff. A small stupa is built on it. It can be seen that the constructional work of this stupa belongs to the present period. Lower down on both sides of a cleft, in a rock that appears to rise out of a pool, have been carved the figures of elephants. On the rock is carved the figure of a horse. The carving of Isurumuniya lovers on the slab has been brought from another place and placed it there. Locals and foreigners toss coins to elephant figures in the rock blnear the pool and make a wish. And there is an ancient boo tree beside the pool that locals calls "ashtapala bodiya". And they believe it will grant good fortune and wishes come true. A few yards away from this vihara is the Ranmasu Uyana. Which means the "herbal garden". Note** The pond infront of the temple and car park is habit to crocodiles. Please beware.

It has a quite big car park where you can park your vehicle but don't park it close to trees as there are lot's of monkeys who would jump on to your vehicles and damage them. You have to walk inside to the place without your foot wears as this place is a sacred one. Some of the parts has been restricted to show due to the covid situation. We were not able to see the famous 'Isurumuni lovers'. You can show your generosity by gifting money to the place to preserve it for the future generations.

Best travel destination, morning and evening times are more suitable for tourists. Altime favourite statue: Isurumuniya

Historical Places in Sri Lanka

Nice small Buddhist temple that flies a bit under the radar in comparison to the big names in Anuradhapura. The temple has a small room along with a museum. What stands out though is the fact that the temple is carved into a rocky hill. There are stairs that lead to the top of the hill, which offers a great view of the town. Entry free is 200 rupees for foreigners. You need to leave your shoes out front, there is no concierge.

One of sacred place in Anuradhapura ancient city.calm and beautiful location to spend your time.At the top of the rock you can see whole area 😍❤️

Isuruminiya is the first temple built by King Devanampiyathissa. Isurumuniya is well famous fir the rock crafting namely Isurumuniya lovers, Royal family, Man and the horse head. You still can find these crafts inside the temple. The temple has a really elegant and mesmerizing atmosphere.

This is an historical place. You can climb up a little rock hear. There are things to visit. A shrine room with various murals , carvings like Isurumuni Lovers , a pond are some of them. Toilets are there from a little distance. You should pay a Rs.20 fee for a one person. But they are very clean.

One of the best places to visit in Anuradhapura. Famous for The Couple Of Isurumuni

Located close to Thissa wewa in Anuradhapura city this is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. Highly recommended to anyone who wants explore Buddhist temples

sacred temple with Great history for Buddhists to worship.... locates at the heart of Anuradhapura city...

(Translated by Google) Isurumuniya (Original) ඉසුරුමුණිය

It's a very nice place. They have a temple and a museum, plus you can climb the rock and get a very nice view of the area. Totally worth a visit. Foreign citizens need to buy a ticket.

Calm environment overlooking Thisa Wawe. Minisa Saha Ashwa Hisa, Isuru Muni Pemyuwala, Jala Nana Aththu and other cavings such as Raja Pawula etc can be seen. There is a stunning view from the top of the rock, Sadahiru Seya can be seen (under construction, being built by SL army). There is a foot path from the car park area, leading u to Thisa Wewa and Ranmasu Uyana.

Isurumuniya is a Buddhist temple situated near to the Tissa Wewa (Tisa tank) in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. There are four carvings of special interest in this Vihara. They are the Isurumuniya Lovers, Elephant Pond and The Royal Family.

Beautiful ancient temple in anuradhapura. popular for carvings in stones. Isuruminiya lovers, Elephant pond, man and horse head and the royal family. The ancient Meghagiri Vihara or Meygiri Vihara is presently identified as the Isurumuni Vihara. It was built by King Devanampiya Tissa (307 BC to 267 BC) who ruled in the ancient Sri Lankan capital of Anuradhapura. After 500 children of high-caste were ordained, Isurumuniya was built for them to reside. King Kasyapa I (473-491 AD) again renovated this viharaya and named it as "Boupulvan, Kasubgiri Radmaha Vehera" giving the names of his 2 daughters and his name. There is a viharaya connected to a cave and above is a cliff. A small stupa is built on it. It can be seen that the constructional work of this stupa belongs to the present period. Lower down on both sides of a cleft, in a rock that appears to rise out of a pool, have been carved the figures of elephants. On the rock is carved the figure of a horse. The carving of Isurumuniya lovers on the slab has been brought from another place and placed it there. A few yards away from this vihara is the Ranmasu Uyana. he Royal Family carving is carved on a Granite plate.There are five human figures carved on this plate. The human figure in the center is King Dutugamunu, who has a tall crown on his head and a "puna noola" around his chest. At his left are another two human figures. They are fanning him with a "Wijinipath"

The first Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka. The first Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka. Entrance costs 100 rupees, for a foreigner 500 rupees. Shoes can be left at the entrance. Women must cover their shoulders and knees. On the territory of the temple there is a beautiful pond with fish, a museum with many ancient frescoes on stone. Temple with a huge reclining Buddha. Best to visit in the morning, less people and not so hot. Very beautiful ancient place, definitely worth a visit.

(Translated by Google) Isurumuniya Temple Isurumuniya Temple This ancient temple in the sacred city of Anuradhapura was built by King Devanam Priyatissa around 250-210 BC. History has it that this was Isurumuniya because 500 Arahants were ordained in this place by the Arahant. The image of the lovers who are believed to be Saliya Asokamala was found in this temple and it is named after the lovers of Isurumuniya (Original) ඉසුරුමුණිය විහාරය Isurumuniya Temple අනුරාධපුර පූජානගරයේ ඇති මෙම ඉපැරැණි විහාරය ක්‍රි.පු 250-210 කාලයේ දේවානම් ප්‍රියතිස්ස රජතුමා විසින් කරවන ලද්දකි. ඉසුරුමතුන් 500ක් දෙනා මහරහතන්වහන්සේ විසින් මෙම ස්ථානයේ පැවිදි කළ නිසා මෙය ඉසුරුමුණිය වූ බව ඉතිහාස කතාවල එයි. සාලිය අසෝකමාලා යැයි සැලකෙන පෙම්වතුන්ගේ රූපය මෙම විහාරභූමියෙන් සොයාගත් නිසා එයට ඉසුරුමුණියේ පෙම්‍යුවල නම පටබැඳී ඇත.

An ancient royal garden and a water sports complex later converted to a temple. Beautiful views of the nearby tank (තිසා වැව) from top of the rocks specially at the sunset and sunrise. Currently under Buddhist order. Entrance is free but need to wear appropriate attire. Few hours is required to observe the ancient artifacts and fascinating creations made on the bedrock. You can see the world renowned stonemade creations - Isurumuniya Couple, Elephant Pond, etc. There are no facilities for visitors like guides with translators, a souvenir shop, a cafe, wheelchair accessibility, clean washrooms, etc. Rather some security and donations collection at the entrance! Hope these places of attraction will be made more visitor friendly (with the help of donations from devotees and government), one-day...

This is a truly wonderful place. The grounds are beautiful and teaming with wildlife in the mornings. Views from the top of the rock are spectacular and well worth a picture or two. The short walk beyond the temple to the Royal baths is also gorgeous. Make sure you don't miss it!

Not too far from ancient city of Anuradhapura, this ancient temple was built by king Devanampiyathissa. You can find world famous stone carvings of lovers at Isurumuni museum. Ranmasu uyana is located by the car park and Tisa lake is behind the the temple.

This is the first temple built by King Devanampiyatissa near Tissa Lake. High in ancient hand. It is most famous for its Isuramuni lovers. It is housed in the Isuramuni Museum and is home to a number of artifacts that can be viewed by locals and foreigners alike. Anuradhapura Pilgrims are also invited to visit this place.

Very beautiful surrounding , on the top of the rock the tank and the sunset is fantastic . Famous for the stone carvings, specially the Carving of the Isurumuniya lovers

Such a beautiful architectural heritage in Sri Lanka. Stone carving are amazing.

I always travel to Isurumuniya as it is one of my favorite place in Anuradhapura. I love the tranquility that exists there. If you visit here don't forget to climb up to the bunt of Thissa Wewa tank. One other thing to mention,the sanitary facilities available here are excellent.

Must visit temple in anuradhapura 🙏 this nice, calm temple situated near the Tissa wewa in anuradhapura

Amazing place to visit ! Must see in Srilanka !! It contains stupa, charming pond, huge rock with carved World famous horse head with human, carved the figures of elephant and Isurumuniya lovers engrave.

This temple was believed to be built around 300 B.C by the king named 'Dewanam Piyathissa', in which the meaning of the king's name is 'Thissa whom loved by all gods'. The original name of the temple, 'Meegha Giri Viharaya', which means 'the temple built upon heavy thundering clouds', may have been assigned to it because of the rock formation sourrounding the temple. According to the historical book 'Dalada Siritha', it reveals that this was the sacred temple in Anuradhapura in which the left  tooth relic of Gautama Buddha is enshrined before it was moved to Kandy. The amazing rock formations and the world renowned great rock carvings have made this temple a world famous, must visited temple in Anuradhapura. Amoung the world famous rock carvings, Isurumuni Lovers, The horsekeeper, The royal family and Elephants are few that you can clearly see up to now.

No tickets are required for this amazing historic location. This is a place which reminds you the great love story of Prince Saliya who gave up his throne for his low cast lover Asokamala. The place is popular for the Stone calving of the loving couple. You have to leave your shoes and remove your hats before entering

If you come to Anuradhapura you must defiantly visit this place to see the wonders of the history of Sri Lanka, Great place, amazing experience 😀

Absolutely must see place situated close to the Tisa Wewa. It is renowned for its stone carvings of which the most famous is one known as the “Isurumuniya Lovers”. The other carvings are of the Horseman, Elephant Pond and the Royal Family. My research revealed that the Temple was originally known as the Meghagiri Vihara and it is believed that the Vessagiri Vihara which is located close to it is the actual Isurumuniya Vihara. But there was a large crocodile on the banks when we visited. But a great place and leave a bit of time to explore.

😄 Another place to visit when in the ancient capital city of Sri Lanka. A really beautiful complex with the lake, temple and surrounding area. Check out the museum while your'e there, I got a postcard too, I think it was just 20 rupees!!! 🪨 You can walk up and enjoy the views, I believe its a rock temple which makes it even more interesting! 💓 Also check out the lake and walking/jogging track behind the temple :) Thank you! Much love and many blessings 🙏❤️

The Isurumuniya Viharaya was constructed during the reign of Devanampiya Tissa who governed in Anuradhapura, the country’s capital. During his reign 500 high caste children were ordained, and Isurumuniya was built as a monastic complex to house all of them. Thereafter it was renovated by King Kasyapa (473 – 491 AD) who renamed it “Boupulvan Kasubgiri Radmaha Vehera” – a combination of his name along with his two daughters’. Connected to the Temple is a cave with a cliff above it. A small Dagoba was built on this cliff during a later period. At the picturesque entrance to Isurumuniya a rock can be seen either side of a crevice, and this rock seems to rise out of a pond.

Isurumuniya temple is one of the famous temple because of the carvings. The famous man and horse head, the lovers of isurumuniya, royal family sculpture can be seen at this place.

Visit early morning for a better experience as this is such a beautiful place to visit. Stairs to the top of the rock (to visit the stupa) gets crowded towards mid day. Allow for 30 minutes to walk to Tisa Wewa, & take a stroll by Tisa Wewa. You would see many peacocks along the way.

Nice place..

A sacred old temple with numerous proof for the existence of Anuradhapura kingdom

The Meghagiri Vihara is now commonly known as Isurumuniya Vihara or Isurumuniya. But the real Isurumuni Vihara is located few hundred metres away is now called Vessagiri Vihara. Isurumuniya is most famous for the stone carving of a couple located there. This carved stone was found in the royal pleasure garden and brought here. There are many interpretations for this carving. The most popular is that this carving shows the prince Saliya (the son of the great king Dutugamunu) and his mistress Asokamala. Asokamala was of a lover cast called “Chandala” and the prince Saliya gave up the right to be the king by marrying this girl of a lower cast. Another belief is that this couple represent the god Siva and goddess Parvathi of Hindu belief. The vihara also has another stone slab which depicts a court scene which is thought to be the court of king Dutugemunu. Both these stone slabs are thought to be originated in the 8th century. The vihara itself is built on a rock and the sacred tooth relic of Buddha has been originally kept here when it arrived to the island from India in the 312 AC. At the entrance to the rock temple is a large pond. Above the pond there is a carving of bathing elephants and on the top-level of the stairs there is another carving of a man seated in a royal pose and a horse head. The top carving is thought to be carving of Agni and Parjanya. Parjanya is the god for rain. The elephants below represent the clouds. With this interpretation it is believed this place was also used by the king to perform ceremonies for rain God. The stupa and the Buddha image in this temple are of recent origin. But there are some caves which probably were used earlier but now have become a haven for bats.

Good place to visit

This is where you can find the world famous stone carving of lovers, Isurumuni Pem Yuwala. Ample parking and very important place in Anuradhapura.

Great plaze to visit ..

Clam and very nice location. One of the place that you must visit when you go anuradapuraya.

Isurumuniya is a Buddhist place.It is a great place to visit with your children

Great place

❤ During the Devanampiya Tissa regime, which ruled the ancient capital, Anuradhapura, the Isurumuniya Viharaya was founded. The temple was built to house newly orientated monks as a monastic complex. A cave with a cliff above it is connected to the Temple.

Isurumuniya is an ancient temple situated close to the Thisa Wewa in Anuradhapura. It is famous for 'Isurumuniya Pem Yuwala' (Isurumuniya Lovers). There is a small rock, which could be climbed up to have a magnificent view of the surrounding.

A place with historical significance.

💜️💚

🙏🙏🙏🙏

Very Good Buddies Temple.

Ancent temple way back to the era when Sri Lanka was governed by the kings

In this place you can see very important lovers ' isurumuni pem yuwala'(ඉසුරුමුණි පෙම් යුවළ.)many people think that couple is 'saliya-ashokamala' however it is great build.

Man made huge stone caves

Nice

Have very historical value.we should protect this places to other generation

This is a very histological place in Sri Lanka.

A place with historical significance. It has the famous statue of "Isurumuni Lovers". Thisa wewa is adjacent to the place.

Isurumuniya ඉසුරුමුණිය , historically significant very picturesque place ,built by king Devanampiytissa, දේවානම්පියතිස්ස ,it is significant because secrad tooth relic which was brought by princess Hemamala,හේමමාලා from india believed to be kept at Isurumuniya before it was officially handed over to king Keerthi,Sri මේඝවර්ණ Meghawarna.

Very nice place to visit

Nice place ,the ancient stone carving place in Anuradhapura

Archaeological site

(Translated by Google) A masterpiece of Hela paintings and sculptures (Original) හෙළයන්ගේ අගනා සිතුවම් හා මුර්ති වලින් සමන් විතවු විශිෂ්ට නිර්මාණයක්

(Translated by Google) One of the Atamasthana Famous because of Isurmuniye couple (Original) අටමස්ථාන වලින් එකකි Famous because of Isurmuniye couple

A buddhist temple with amazing ancient stone arts.

Isurumuniya is a Buddhist temple situated in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. There are three carvings of special interest in this vihara. They are the Isurumuniya Lovers, Elephant pond and the Royal family.