Medirigiriya Vatadage, Sri Lanka

The Medirigiriya Vatadage is one of the most beautiful ancient monuments in Sri Lanka, and few tourists see it. A vatadage is a circular relic house built around a small stupa, and this one stands on a rock platform in the countryside, about 30 km north of Polonnaruwa. It's usually dated to around the 7th or 8th century.

If you liked the Vatadage at Polonnaruwa, this is a chance to see its quieter and older cousin, often entirely to yourself.

What to see

• The circular shrine — concentric rings of slender stone pillars rise around a small central stupa.
• Seated Buddhas — statues face out towards the entrances.
• The stone steps and guardstones — a flight of steps climbs the rock to the platform.
• The surroundings — ruined monastic buildings, a nearby rock with lotus-covered pools and a large reservoir close by.

Visiting tips

• Remove your shoes and hat at the platform. The stone gets hot, so go early or bring socks.
• Dress modestly.
• Allow 45 minutes to an hour.
• Check whether a ticket is required, and bring small notes.
• There are few facilities, so bring water.

When to visit

February to September is driest in the Cultural Triangle. Morning light is especially good.

Getting there

Medirigiriya is about 45 minutes to an hour from Polonnaruwa or Habarana by car. It's an easy detour with a Minneriya or Kaudulla safari. Public transport is limited, so a driver or tuk-tuk is easiest. See our Cultural Triangle itinerary.