Mayura Pirivena

Mayura Pirivena is a special ancient place located in the sacred city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. In the Sinhala language, “Mayura” means peacock. It was a monastery and a school for Buddhist monks a very long time ago.

History tells us that King Buddhadasa built this structure between 340 and 368 AD. Later, other kings like King Dhatusena and King Mahanaga repaired and improved it. Today, you cannot see the full building as it was in the past. What remains are beautiful stone pillars, a flight of steps, and a “Moonstone” (Sandakada Pahana) at the entrance. It is situated very close to the famous Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi.

📌 Why Should You Visit

 This place is important because it was a center for education. Long ago, it was a part of the great Maha Vihara complex, which was like a big university for Buddhism.

 The most famous reason to visit is its connection to a great scholar named Buddhaghosa Thero. He was a very wise monk who came from India to Sri Lanka. It is believed that he lived here (or in a building very close by called Granthakara Pirivena) while he wrote important books on Buddhism that are still used today. Visiting here connects you to that deep history of learning and wisdom.

📌 Other Important Details

↔️ Size: The building was about 66 feet long and 45 feet wide.

↔️ The Moonstone: The moonstone found here is unique. Unlike others that are full circles or semi-circles with many details, this one depicts only half a lotus flower in the center.

↔️ Missing Guards: Usually, ancient steps have “guard stones” on either side, but none were found here during excavations.

📌 Things to Do There

🌟 Observe the Ruins: Look closely at the stone pillars that are still standing.

🌟 Photography: It is a quiet and beautiful spot for taking photos of ancient stone carvings.

🌟 Study the Moonstone: diverse from other moonstones in Anuradhapura, take a moment to look at the unique half-lotus design.

🌟 Reflect: It is a peaceful place. You can sit nearby and think about how monks studied here over 1,500 years ago.

📌 How to Get There

📍 Mayura Pirivena is located in the Anuradhapura Sacred City.

📍 From the City Center: You can travel along the Puttalam-Trincomalee Highway.

📍 Landmark: It is situated to the south-west of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. If you are visiting the Bodhi tree, it is just a short walk away.

🚗 Transport: The best way to get around the sacred city is by renting a bicycle or hiring a Tuk-tuk.

📌 What Experience Can Visitors Get

Visitors usually feel a sense of calm and history. Since it is a ruin, it is not as crowded as some of the big stupas. This allows you to walk around quietly. You can experience the feeling of “stepping back in time” as you walk among the stone columns that once held up a great library or residence for scholars.

📌 Important Tips and Guides

⚠️ Dress Code: Since this is a religious area, wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.

⚠️ Sun Safety: It can be very hot during the day. Wear a hat and sunglasses, and carry a bottle of water.

⚠️ Respect: Do not sit on the ancient ruins or statues for photos.

⚠️ Tickets: Ensure you have your Cultural Triangle or Anuradhapura entrance ticket handy, as officials may check it in the sacred area.

Mayura Pirivena is a small but historically rich site in Anuradhapura. It reminds us of Sri Lanka’s golden era of education and Buddhism. Although only ruins remain today, the stone pillars and its connection to the great scholar Buddhaghosa make it a worthy stop for anyone exploring the cultural history of the island.