Thanthirimale
A rock temple northwest of Anuradhapura with a reclining Buddha carved into the stone and a bo tree sapling tradition.
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Thanthirimale is a temple built around a group of granite outcrops, with a large reclining Buddha and a seated figure carved directly into the rock, and prehistoric drawings on some of the surfaces. Tradition holds that the sapling of the Sri Maha Bodhi rested here on its journey from India to Anuradhapura in the third century BC, and a bo tree grown from it stands on the site. The rock surfaces and the views across the dry zone carry the visit.
What you actually see
- The reclining Buddha - a large figure carved into the granite outcrop.
- The seated Buddha - a second rock-cut figure on the same outcrop.
- The bo tree - grown, by tradition, from the sapling that rested here.
- The rock drawings - prehistoric markings on some of the surfaces.
When to go
January to April is the driest and most comfortable. Poya days bring pilgrims. Midday on the bare rock is very hot.
Honest expectations
The site is remote and the road is rough in places. There is little interpretation. Shoes must be removed on the rock, which gets extremely hot.
Nearby
Anuradhapura is southeast, and Wilpattu is west.
What to pack for Thanthirimale
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
