Mahavihara of Anuradhapura

The Mahavihara complex contains multiple monastic buildings, ancient ponds, and sacred structures spread across an expansive area within Anuradhapura.

King Devanampiya Tissa established this significant Buddhist institution between 247 and 207 BCE, marking the foundation of organized Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

The monastery functioned as an educational center where Buddhist scholars composed essential commentaries on religious texts and trained thousands of monks.

This UNESCO World Heritage site maintains regular visiting hours and requires modest dress code compliance for entry into religious buildings.

The complex houses the Sri Maha Bodhi tree, grown from a cutting of the original tree under which Buddha reached enlightenment in India.

Location: Anuradhapura

GPS coordinates: 8.34469,80.39655

Latest update: March 31, 2025 16:38