What are the Isurumuniya Lovers?

The Isurumuniya Lovers is a celebrated rock carving depicting Prince Saliya, son of King Dutugemunu, and Asokamala, a woman of lower caste he loved. By choosing her, Saliya gave up his right to the throne. The relief is housed in a small on-site museum and is considered one of the finest examples of Anuradhapura-period sculpture.

How old is Isurumuniya temple?

The temple was founded by King Devanampiya Tissa, who ruled from approximately 307 to 267 BC, making the site over 2,300 years old. It was later renovated by King Kasyapa I in the late fifth century AD, who renamed it Boupulvan Kasubgiri Radmaha Vehera.

How do I get to Isurumuniya from Colombo?

Anuradhapura is approximately 200 km north of Colombo, reached by road via the A9 highway in around four hours or by intercity express train in a similar duration. Isurumuniya is on the southern edge of the Sacred City, close to the Tissa Wewa reservoir, and is easily reached by tuk-tuk or bicycle from Anuradhapura town.

Is there an entrance fee for Isurumuniya?

Yes, foreign visitors pay a government-set admission fee to enter the Isurumuniya complex. The fee can be paid at the site entrance or purchased in advance through authorised ticketing services. Local pilgrims and Sri Lankan nationals typically enter at no charge or at a reduced rate.

What is the Ranmasu Uyana near Isurumuniya?

Ranmasu Uyana is an ancient royal pleasure garden located a short walk from Isurumuniya. It features a system of bathing pools and ornamental ponds, and is notable for a mysterious star-shaped rock diagram known as the Sakwala Chakraya, which some researchers link to ancient astronomy or cartography.

What should I wear when visiting Isurumuniya?

As an active Buddhist temple, Isurumuniya requires visitors to cover their shoulders and knees. Shoes must be removed before entering the shrine room and when walking on the rock. Carrying a light wrap or sarong is advisable if your travel outfit does not meet these requirements.

Can I visit Isurumuniya and Sigiriya on the same day?

It is possible but demanding. Sigiriya is roughly 65 km east of Anuradhapura, and climbing the rock fortress itself takes considerable time and energy. Most travellers prefer to spend a full day in Anuradhapura and visit Sigiriya separately, either the following day or as part of a dedicated itinerary through the Cultural Triangle.

What is the best time of day to visit Isurumuniya?

Early morning is generally recommended. The light falls softly on the rock carvings, the reflective pool is typically calm, and the site is quieter before group tours arrive. Avoid midday visits between May and September, when Anuradhapura can be very hot.

Isurumuniya — Lakpura®

This is the place where the mythical Pulasthi Rishi was said to have lived and where the mythical King Ravana was believed to have been born. The temple 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) later renovated this viharaya and named it "Boupulvan, Kasubgiri Radmaha Vehera". This name is derived from the names of his two daughters and himself. There is a viharaya connected to a cave, above which is a cliff with a small stupa 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, figures of elephants have been carved. On the rock, the figure of a horse is also carved. 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.

Isurumuni Lovers

Isurumuniya Lovers depicts Prince Saliya, the son of King Dutugemunu, and Asokamala, a maiden of a lower caste, whom he loved.

Royal Family Carving

The Royal Family carving is engraved on a granite slab and features five human figures.

Elephant Pond Carving

There are four elephants in this carving, shown bathing. The elephant figures here are very similar to those found in Mamallapuram in India.