Carved from a low granite outcrop beside a tank, Isurumuniya is the most atmospheric of Anuradhapura's temples. The complex dates to the 3rd century BC and contains rock-cut carvings of exceptional quality, including the famous "Isurumuniya Lovers" — a tenderly observed relief of a man and a woman that is considered one of the masterpieces of ancient Sinhalese sculpture. A small museum on site holds additional carvings, including an unusual depiction of a royal figure on horseback and a group of elephants splashing in water.
Isurumuniya Rock Temple
Ancient rock temple with exquisite carved stone lovers