
This was a special shrine in Uttara Mula in the Abayagiri Monastery utilized for ritual purposes associated with relics of Buddha. Paying homage to the relics of Buddha was a popular ritual in the Abayagiri Monastery. This building has been recognized as a Relic Shrine because of its architectural features.
The building is built on a high platform and you can see most of the stone pillars which held the roof has been restored. Unlike most other ruined buildings, the pillar capitals have survived the ravages of time and have been restored. These pillar capitals are exquisitely carved with a row of ‘Vamana’ in the form of holding the roof by their hands.
Two well preserved guard stones can be seen at the entrance.
Also See
Relic Shrine of Abayagiri Monastery Map
The map above also shows other places of interest within a approximately 20 km radius of the current site. Click on any of the markers and the info box to take you to information of these sites
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Driving Directions to Relic Shrine of Abayagiri Monastery (Anuradhapura)
Anuradhapura can be reached through many routes from Colombo. The two main routes are through Puttalam (Puttalama) and through Kurunegala. Travelling from Puttalam, you will pass the scenic Wilpattu area. From Kurunegala, there are two main routes to Anuradhapura. The most common route is through Dambulla. The other route is through Galgamuwa. Out of all the routes, the most commonly used is the Kurunegala-Dambulla route (Route 2).
Route 01 from Colombo to Anuradhapura | Route 02 from Colombo to Anuradhapura |
Through : Negombo – Chilaw – Puttalam Distance from Colombo : 210 km Travel time : 4.30- 5.00 hours Driving Directions : see on Google map | Through : Katunayake Expressway – Central Expressway – Kurunegala – Dambulla Distance from Colombo : 223 km Travel Time : 4.30- 5.00 hours Driving Directions : see on Google maps |
Route 03 from Colombo to Anuradhapura | Route from Kandy to Anuradhapura |
Through : Katunayake Expressway – Narammala – Wariyapola – Padeniya – Thambuthegama Distance from Colombo :203 km Travel Time : 4.30- 5.00 hours Driving Directions : see on Google map | Through : Katugastota – Matale – Dambulla Distance from Colombo :136 km Travel Time : 3.5 hours Driving Directions : see on Google map |