The Isurumuniya as it is commonly referred to is quite famous for the carving of two lovers that can be found here. A Buddhist temple found near the Tissa Wewa, the premises serves as a wonderful getaway from your coastal holiday. Holidaymakers staying at Sri Lanka luxury hotels in its vicinity can schedule trip to the Isurumuniya Vihara. Uga Escapes which is categorised among Sri Lanka boutique hotels that are worth residing at should be given some thought.
Various interpretations exist in relation to the stone carving of the couple. Some are of the view that it depicts the son of King Dutugemunu’s son Saliya along with a lower caste maiden by the name of Asokamala. However others have expressed their opinions that it is a carving of the Hindu faith; representing God Shiva and Goddess Parvathi. However the temple itself was built by King Devanampiyatissa and was given over to 500 high caste children who were ordained as priests. Found atop a rock, the temple was one of the resting places of the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha after it was brought from India. A gigantic pond will greet visitors to the temple and one could witness a carving of bathing elephants found nearby. The intricate details of the sculpture that adorn the vihara have led many to believe that the premises was once used by the king to perform ceremonies to the rain god Parjanya. Numerous caves too are located here and the daring at heart can embark on a day of exploring these secluded havens of the Isurumuniya Vihara.
Nigel Walters is a travel writer, who writes under the pen name, Fritzjames Stephen. His content is based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life. Google+
