The Thanthirimale Raja Maha Vihara, located about 40 km northwest of Anuradhapura, is one of
the most serene and spiritually uplifting places in Sri Lanka.
Hidden among forest and rocky plains, this ancient temple dates back to the 3rd century BC,
during the reign of King Devanampiyatissa.
The site is best known for its reclining Buddha statue and large rock-carved seated Buddha, both
beautifully sculpted into natural stone.
Surrounded by peaceful forest and birdsong, Thanthirimale offers visitors a calm and reflective
experience far from the busy city.
During full moon (Poya) days, devotees gather here to meditate and offer flowers in a truly
tranquil setting.
- Reclining Buddha Statue 🕉️: A massive stone carving 🗿 symbolizing serenity 😌.
- Seated Buddha Statue 🧘: Carved from rock ⛰️ with a calm, meditative expression✨.
- Bo Tree & Temple Grounds 🌳: Believed to be planted from a sapling 🌱 of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi 🌿.
- Peaceful Forest Walks 🚶♀️: Explore ancient ruins 🏚️ surrounded by nature 🍃.
- Photography 📸: Excellent views 👀 of rock surfaces 🪨, statues 🗿, and greenery 💚.
- From Anuradhapura Town 🏘️: About 1 hour ⏱️ by car 🚗 or 1.5 hours 🚌 by bus .
- From Colombo 🏙️: Around 6 hours ⏳ by car 🚘.
- Nearby Sites 🗺️: Wilpattu National Park 🐘, Mahawilachchiya Tank 💧.
- Visit early morning ☀️ or evening 🌙 to avoid the heat 🔥.
- Bring water 💧, a hat 👒, and comfortable walking shoes 👟.
- Dress modestly 👚👖 — shoulders and knees should be covered 🙏.
- Avoid loud talking 🤫 — the site is meant for quiet reflection 🧘.
- Ideal for those looking for peace 🕊️ and photography opportunities 📸.
- 4:30 PM 🕓 – Arrive 📍 and walk around the temple grounds 🚶♀️.
- 5:00 PM 🕔 – Visit the reclining Buddha 🕉️ and meditate near the Bo tree 🌳.
- 6:00 PM 🕕 – Capture sunset light 🌅 over the rocky temple ⛰️.
