Located within the UNESCO World Heritage ancient city of Anuradhapura, the Vaulted Vihara (Gedige) is a unique 8th-century Buddhist image house built entirely of brick, showcasing rare Pallava-style architecture that provides a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich historical past.

Why visit Vaulted Vihara (Gedige) Image House of Anuradhapura

• Unique Brick Architecture: The Vaulted Vihara, or Gedige, is a rare example of a structure built entirely from brick masonry. This stands out from most other ancient image houses in Anuradhapura, which were made with stone.
• Vaulted Roof Design: This vihara featured a unique vaulted roof and upper floors. The semi-domical roof was an innovative architectural feature for its time, with some remnants still visible in the late 19th century.
• Connection to Mahayana Buddhism: It is believed the vihara served as a sanctuary for followers of the Mahayana tradition. This includes those who practiced Tantric rituals, which add a unique spiritual dimension to the site.
• Scholarly Mystery: The true purpose of the structure remains a subject of scholarly debate. Some researchers believe it may have once housed the Sacred Tooth Relic, adding to its historical mystique.
• Tranquil and Less Crowded Atmosphere: Unlike other popular sites, Gedige is often less crowded. This allows visitors a more peaceful and intimate experience with ancient Sri Lankan history and architecture.