The Isurumuniya Vihara, also known as the Temple of the Lovers, is one of the most enchanting
and artistic landmarks in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
Built by King Devanampiyatissa in the 3rd century BC, this ancient rock temple combines beauty,
spirituality, and history in a single peaceful setting.
The temple is world-famous for the “Isurumuniya Lovers” stone carving, which depicts a royal
couple in a graceful embrace — one of Sri Lanka’s finest examples of ancient art.
Surrounded by a tranquil pond, flowering trees, and rocky cliffs, Isurumuniya offers a perfect mix
of nature and culture.
- Isurumuniya Lovers Carving 🥰🗿: The most famous sculpture ✨ — elegant and timeless 🕰️❤️
- Elephant Pond Carving 🐘💦: Ancient art 🎨 showing elephants bathing in water 🌊😌
- Rock Temple 🪨🕌: Small shrine 🙏 with Buddha statues 🧘 and murals 🖌️🖼️
- Peaceful Pond 💧📸: Ideal for photos ✨ and quiet relaxation 🧘♀️😌
- Mini Museum 🏛️🔍: Displays more carvings 🗿 and archaeological artifacts 💎📜
- From Anuradhapura Town 📍: 10 minutes ⏱️ by tuk-tuk 🛺 or bicycle 🚲💨
- From Colombo 🗺️: About 4–5 hours ⏳ by car 🚗 or train 🚂✅
- Nearby Sites 🏛️: Tissa Wewa 🌊 and Vessagiriya Cave Complex 🪨🙏
- Remove shoes 👟 and hats 🧢 before entering the shrine 🙏😌
- Visit early morning 🌅 for fewer crowds 🏃♀️🤫
- Carry water 💧 and wear comfortable clothes 👕✅
- Photography 📸 is allowed ✅, but no flash ⚡🚫 inside 🕌👀
- Stay quiet 🤫 to enjoy the calm temple environment 🧘🕊️
Morning Plan:
- 7:00 AM – Arrive and explore the main rock temple 🪨🕌🙏
- 7:45 AM – See the Lovers’ Carving 🥰🗿 and Elephant Pond 🐘💦👀
- 8:30 AM – Relax near the pond 💧😌 or visit Tissa Wewa 🌊🌳
