Vessagiri
වෙස්සගිරිය
An early forest monastery among giant boulders on the southern outskirts of the ancient city. Rock caves have Brahmi inscriptions and dripstones, and few visitors come.
Vessagiri is one of Sri Lanka's earliest monasteries. Legend says it was founded by King Devanampiya Tissa for 500 monks of the Vaishya caste. Three large granite boulder groups have more than 20 monastic cave cells carved into them. Above the cave entrances are drip-ledges to keep rain out and pre-Christian-era Brahmi inscriptions recording donations. The surrounding area has steps, moonstones and building foundations. It lies about 1 km south of Isurumuniya in a quiet forest setting. It suits visitors who enjoy off-the-beaten-path ruins and is ideal to reach by bicycle. Climbing the boulders offers views over the ancient city.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Archaeological Museum Anuradhapura
- Isurumuniya
- Ranmasu Uyana (Royal Pleasure Gardens)
- Sandahiru Seya
- Tissa Wewa
- Mirisawetiya Stupa
- Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
- Lovamahapaya (Brazen Palace)