Ponnarankulama

After our enriching visit to Abhayagiriya, we set out to satisfy our appetites with a hearty lunch, savoring the flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine. With renewed energy, we embarked on the next leg of our journey, eager to discover more of Anuradhapura's hidden treasures.

Our next destination was Muragala, a site known for its ancient stone statues. As we approached, the imposing figures came into view, standing sentinel against the backdrop of time. The intricacy of the carvings and the sheer size of the statues left us in awe. They seemed to exude a sense of ancient wisdom, their weathered surfaces bearing witness to countless generations that had passed in their presence.

The Sandakada Pahana, or moonstone, was our next stop. This beautifully carved semicircular stone greeted us with its intricate patterns, each ring telling a story of ancient cosmology and spiritual significance. The layers of symbolism in the moonstone spoke of a culture deeply connected to the natural world and the pursuit of enlightenment.

As we stood before these ancient relics, we couldn't help but be humbled by the profound legacy they represented. The craftsmanship and artistry of those who had sculpted these stones spoke volumes about the dedication and skill of the ancient craftsmen.

The day was beginning to wane, and as the sun cast long shadows over the ancient city, we felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to have walked in the footsteps of those who had come before us. Anuradhapura had revealed its treasures to us in all their splendor, and we carried with us the echoes of centuries past, etched into the very stones and statues that stood as guardians of history.

With hearts full of reverence and wonder, we made our way back to our hotel, ready to rest and reflect on the extraordinary day of exploration that awaited us in the morrow. Anuradhapura had gifted us a profound journey through time, leaving an indelible mark on our souls.

Samadhi Pilimaya: A Sanctuary of Inner Peace

Our day of exploration in Anuradhapura culminated in a visit to the sacred Samadhi Pilimaya, a place of deep contemplation and spiritual resonance. As we approached this hallowed sanctuary, a sense of serenity enveloped us, inviting us to leave behind the cares of the world and immerse ourselves in a realm of inner peace.

The stupa, though smaller in scale compared to some of the grandeur we had encountered earlier, exuded an aura of quiet majesty. Its white dome seemed to glow softly in the fading light of day, casting a gentle and inviting glow. The simplicity of its design was a testament to the purity of purpose that it represented.

The surrounding courtyard, meticulously maintained, provided a sacred space for devotees to offer their prayers and reflections. Stone pathways led us around the stupa, inviting us to circumambulate in a ritual of reverence. The atmosphere was one of profound stillness, a sanctuary for the mind to find solace and tranquility.

As we approached the stupa, we noticed the intricate stone carvings that adorned its base. Delicate lotus patterns and symbolic motifs spoke of a deeper spiritual language, inviting us to contemplate the profound teachings that lay at the heart of this sacred site.

We sat in quiet contemplation, allowing the energy of Samadhi Pilimaya to wash over us. The sounds of nature, the rustling leaves and distant birdsong, seemed to harmonize with the stillness of the evening air. It was a place where time seemed to slow, allowing us to turn our gaze inward and connect with the deeper currents of our own consciousness.

Samadhi Pilimaya was a sanctuary of inner peace, a space where the external world faded away, leaving only the quiet presence of the present moment. As we offered our own silent prayers, we felt a profound sense of gratitude for having been granted the opportunity to experience this sacred site.

As the last rays of sunlight danced on the horizon, we left Samadhi Pilimaya with hearts full of reverence and a renewed sense of inner calm. It was a fitting conclusion to our day of exploration in Anuradhapura, a reminder that amidst the grandeur of ancient architecture, it is the inner sanctuary of the heart where true peace is found.Read more