Abhayagiri vihāra

The Abhayagiri complex extends across 235 hectares of land, featuring ancient stupas, monasteries, carved stone structures, and ceremonial buildings from various periods.

King Vaṭṭagāmaṇi Abhaya established this religious center between 29 and 17 BC, marking a significant separation from the Mahāvihāra Buddhist tradition.

The monastery functioned as an international center for Buddhist education, incorporating teachings from Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana Buddhist traditions.

Visitors can explore the extensive archaeological site, which includes twin ponds with decorative steps, multiple meditation halls, and residential quarters for monks.

The central stupa originally reached 115 meters in height and contained special chambers designed to preserve sacred Buddhist relics.

Location: Anuradhapura

GPS coordinates: 8.37094,80.39525

Latest update: May 27, 2025 13:19