Where is Hiriwadunna Viharaya located?

Hiriwadunna Sri Bodhiraja Forest Hermitage is located in Hiriwadunna village, Anuradhapura District, approximately 2 km from Habarana town. It sits within the broader Cultural Triangle region of north-central Sri Lanka, close to major sites such as Sigiriya and Dambulla.

What is the stone slab under the Bo tree at Hiriwadunna?

A large stone slab lies partially buried beneath the roots of the ancient Bo tree at the hermitage. It is thought by some researchers to be an asanagara — a symbolic seat associated with the Buddha — though claims that it is the Vajrasana (seat of enlightenment) are disputed by mainstream scholars and have not been verified archaeologically.

Who built the Hiriwadunna Tank?

The Hiriwadunna Tank is traditionally attributed to King Vasabha, a ruler of the Anuradhapura Kingdom who reigned in the first century CE. He is credited in chronicles with constructing and restoring numerous irrigation tanks across the island. The tank remains close to the temple site and is still visible today.

Is Hiriwadunna Viharaya an active temple?

Yes, resident monks continue to use the site for meditation and religious practice. Visitors are welcome but should dress modestly — covering shoulders and knees — and keep noise to a minimum, particularly during morning and evening observance periods.

How long does a visit to Hiriwadunna hermitage take?

Most visitors spend between 30 minutes and an hour exploring the temple grounds, the Bo tree area, and the nearby tank. Those with a deeper interest in the site's history or who wish to observe monastic life may stay longer. The forest setting makes a slow, unhurried walk pleasant.

Can Hiriwadunna be combined with Sigiriya or Minneriya?

Easily. Habarana, just 2 km from Hiriwadunna, is one of the most convenient bases in the Cultural Triangle. Sigiriya Rock Fortress is around 15 km away and Minneriya National Park is roughly 20 km away, making a combined day trip very practical by private vehicle or tuk-tuk.

Is there an entrance fee for Hiriwadunna Viharaya?

As an active Buddhist hermitage rather than a managed archaeological park, Hiriwadunna Viharaya typically does not charge a formal entrance fee. Visitors are welcome to make a voluntary offering at the temple. It is advisable to confirm current arrangements locally before your visit, as practices at individual temples can vary.

Hiriwadunna Sri Bodhiraja Forest Hermitage

Hiriwadunna Viharaya (Hiriwadunna Sri Bodhiraja Forest Hermitage) is buddhist temple situated in Hiriwadunna village in Anuradhapura District only 2 km away from Habarana city. Several ruins of ancient structures are found scattered in the temple premises. The ancient Hiriwadunna Lake built by King Wasaba is located near the temple site.

This site became popular in few years ago when a local priest published a conspiracy theory book called ‘Apa Upan Me Helabima Budun Upan Jambudweepayai’ arguing that the Buddha was born and lived in ancient Sri Lanka. A large slab of stone, probably a Asanagara ( symbolic seat of Buddha) lies at the bottom of the ancient bo tree now partially buried under the roots of the tree has been identified as the Vajrasanaya where Buddha sat during enlightenment. Regardless of the validity of these ideas in this book, which has been rejected by many and even banned from libraries, Hirivadunna is a historical place must see for those interested in Sri Lanka history and Buddhist heritage.

Reach Hiriwadunna Viharaya

Hiriwadunna Viharaya can be easily visited from Colombo through Divulapitiya – Giriulla – Narammala – Kurunegala. There after 4 hour ride you can find easily Hiriwadunna Viharaya.

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Hiriwadunna Sri Bodhiraja Forest Hermitage

Reach Hiriwadunna Viharaya

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