Pacina Tissa Pabbata Viharaya: An Ancient Architectural Marvel in Anuradhapura

Hidden beside the Nuwarawewa Reservoir in Anuradhapura lies the enigmatic Pacina Tissa Pabbata Viharaya, a stunning example of Pabbata Viharaya architecture from Sri Lanka’s golden age. Built by King Jettatissa (266-276 CE), this monastery was once a grand spiritual center before fading into obscurity. Today, its ruins whisper tales of royal patronage, sacred relics, and an ancient octagonal shrine adorned with mystical symbols.

What is a Pabbata Vihara?

Pabbata Viharas are unique monastic complexes designed in harmony with natural rock formations. Key features include:

✔ Terraced courtyards at different levels, often surrounded by water.


✔ Four sacred structures arranged in precise order:

  • A stupa (relic shrine)
  • A bodhighara (Bodhi tree shrine)
  • A patimaghara (image house)
  • A prasada (Uposathaghara – chapter house)

Other famous Pabbata Viharas in Anuradhapura include Vijayaramaya, Pankuliya Asokaramaya, and Vessagiriya.

The Rise and Fall of Pacina Tissa Pabbata Viharaya

A Royal Foundation

King Jettatissa gifted this monastery to monks from five great monasteries and enshrined a magnificent Buddha statue originally placed in Thuparamaya by King Devanampiyatissa. However, his brother King Mahasen (276-303 CE) later moved the statue to Abhayagiri Viharaya, diminishing this temple’s prominence.

The Mysterious Octagonal Shrine

During 1945 excavations, archaeologist Dr. Senarat Paranavithana uncovered remnants of an octagonal platform with three carved stone slabs depicting auspicious symbols:

  • A conch shell (Shankha)
  • Double fish (Matsya)
  • A stool-like object

These are believed to be part of the Ashtamangala (Eight Auspicious Symbols), though the remaining five slabs remain lost. Scholars suggest this shrine symbolized Mount Meru, the cosmic axis rising from the mythical Lake Anavatapta.

Rediscovering the Ruins

Though built in the 3rd century CE, most surviving structures date to the 5th century. Key findings include:

  • A quadrangular platform enclosed by a moat
  • Four shrine ruins at each corner
  • Elephant wall remnants surrounding the terrace

Once mistaken for Prince Saliya’s palace, the site’s true significance was only revealed through archaeological research.

Why Visit This Hidden Gem?

  • Explore a rare Pabbata Vihara design blending nature and architecture.
  • Marvel at the ancient Ashtamangala carvings, symbols of Buddhist cosmology.
  • Walk through history where kings and monks shaped Sri Lanka’s spiritual legacy.

How to Get There

The ruins lie near the Nuwarawewa Reservoir in Anuradhapura, though exact access paths may require local guidance.

Have you visited Pacina Tissa Pabbata Viharaya? Share your thoughts below!


THE AUTHOR BY: I.D.M.V.B.ILANGANTHILAKA 

https://www.youtube.com/@StellarPath0722

https://www.pinterest.com/wimukthibi/_pins/

https://www.youtube.com/@SkylineNook-z7y

Location: Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

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