Abhayagiri Dagaba
Abhayagiri Dagaba: monastery complex in Anuradhapura
King Valagamba built Abhayagiri in the 1st century BC. It was once a large monastic university that housed up to 5,000 monks. The dagaba (stupa) was historically over 100 metres high. After restoration it is still a very large structure with a red-brick surface.
What to see
Abhayagiri was open to several schools of Buddhist thought, and it had links with ancient China and India.
Getting there by car
The complex is 175 km (109 miles) from the airport, a drive of about 4 hours. It lies in the northern part of the Anuradhapura sacred city. You can [rent a car in Sri Lanka](/rent-a-car-sri-lanka) to visit Abhayagiri and then continue to the Samadhi Buddha statue.
Before you go
Traveler FAQ for Abhayagiri Dagaba
How tall is the dagaba?
Historically it was over 100 metres high. After restoration it is still a very large structure.
How is Abhayagiri different from the Mahavihara?
It followed a different and more expansive monastic style than the Mahavihara fraternity.
How long does it take to see the complex?
The dagaba and the ruins around it take about 1 to 1.5 hours.
What are the moonstones at Abhayagiri like?
They are carved with animals and floral patterns in fine detail.
What is the Kuttam Pokuna?
It is a pair of carved stone pools near Abhayagiri, known as the Twin Ponds, that the monks used for bathing.
Where is the Samadhi Buddha statue?
The 4th-century Samadhi Buddha statue is close to the Abhayagiri complex, in the same part of the sacred city.
Plan your trip to Abhayagiri Dagaba
Reach Abhayagiri Dagaba in your own car or with an English-speaking driver from H.B.S. Rent a Car Sri Lanka.