Medirigiriya Vatadage
Madirigiriya was a large monastic complex that had been in existence for almost two millennia. The monastery’s centerpiece, the Medirigiriya Vatadage, was a place of worship with a stupa in the center and four stone-carved Buddha statues facing the four directions. This architectural masterpiece was built in three concentric rings on a rocky outcrop with 27 stone stairs. The remaining rock pillars show that there was a roof over the construction.
The damaged but still magnificent Medirigiriya Vatadage is a fine example of ancient Sri Lankan stone artistry.
Other attractions of the site include two bathing ponds, a cave, a latrine, a hospital, and a rock medicinal bathtub.
The inscriptions on the bricks and stone sculptures reveal the tale of this site’s lengthy history.
Additional information
Nearby Attractions
The most popular nearby attraction
- Polonnaruwa Ancient City (30km)
Accommodation
Accommodation (within 10km)
- Star Classified hotels- No
- International Chain Hotels- No
- Boutique Hotels- No
- Resorts- No
- Ayurvedic Hotels- No
- Inns/Guest Houses- Yes
- Hostels- Yes
- Homestays- Yes
- Eco Hotels- Yes
* You might still find preferred accommodation in nearby cities.
Distance
Distance from (estimate)
- CMB Airport- 190km (travel time: 4hrs 30min)
- Colombo City- 222km (travel time: 5hrs 15min)
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress- 70km (travel time: 1hrs 30min)
- Anuradhapura Ancient City- 99km (travel time: 2hrs)
- Polonnaruwa Ancient City- 30km (travel time: 50min)
- Kandy City- 134km (travel time: 3hrs 45min)
- Galle Dutch Fort- 318km (travel time: 6hrs 20min)
* The time and distance are only given to give you an idea. There are stopovers between the two locations. The cities listed above are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Sri Lanka.
Best Time
Season
- February to October