Must-Try Foods In Isurumuniya Temple (Anuradhapura) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Isurumuniya Temple, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

The Isurumuniya Temple has a storied past that dates back to the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa (307 BC to 267 BC). While the temple itself is renowned for its historical significance and intricate stone carvings, it is entwined with the rich food history of Anuradhapura. As a significant city in ancient Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura was a hub for the exchange of culinary cultures, with its monks and travelers contributing to an evolving cuisine. Over time, rice became a staple food, often paired with curries made from locally sourced vegetables, meats, and coconut milk. With Buddhism deeply rooted in the culture, vegetarian dishes are common and often prepared during religious festivities at temples, including Isurumuniya.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Isurumuniya Temple, Anuradhapura

1. Dhal Curry (Vegetarian) - A staple dish made from lentils, spices, and coconut milk, often accompanied by rice or bread.
2. Jackfruit Curry (Polos) (Vegetarian) - Young green jackfruit diced and cooked into a delicious curry with a blend of aromatic spices.
3. Coconut Sambol (Vegetarian) - A spicy condiment made of ground coconut, chili peppers, onions, and lime juice, perfect with rice or hoppers.
4. Eggplant Moju (Vegetarian) - A sweet and sour dish featuring fried eggplant, vinegar, sugar, and spices.
5. Kottu Rotti (Non-Veg/Veg options available) - Chopped rotti mixed with vegetables, egg, and/or meat, and a variety of spices, a Sri Lankan street food favorite.
6. Hoppers (Appa) (Vegetarian) - A bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, optionally served with an egg in the center.
7. Wambatu Moju (Vegetarian) - Another delicious eggplant dish, this time featuring deep-fried eggplant in a pickled sauce.
8. String Hoppers (Indi Appa) (Vegetarian) - Steamed noodles made from rice flour dough, often served for breakfast or dinner.
9. Vegetable Roti (Vegetarian) - Flatbread stuffed with spiced potatoes and vegetables, a portable and satisfying snack.
10. Fish Ambul Thiyal (Sour Fish Curry) (Non-Veg) - A sour dish made with fish, usually tuna, and seasoned with a blend of spices including dried goraka.

Top Famous Restaurants Near Isurumuniya Temple, Anuradhapura

Mango Mango Restaurant

- Address: 622/18 Godage Mawatha, Anuradhapura
- Famous Food: Traditional Sri Lankan Rice and Curry (Non-Veg/Veg)

Little Paradise Tourist Guest House and Restaurant

- Address: 622/7 Godage Mawatha, Anuradhapura
- Famous Food: Egg Hoppers (Vegetarian with the option to add non-veg)

Seedevi Family Restaurant

- Address: Old Town Anuradhapura, Anuradhapura
- Famous Food: Kottu Rotti (Non-Veg/Veg options available)

Heritage Hotel Anuradhapura

- Address: Galwala Road, Pothanegama, Anuradhapura
- Famous Food: Traditional Sri Lankan Buffet (Non-Veg/Veg)

Big Mama Family Restaurant

- Address: Maithreepala Senanayake Mw, Anuradhapura
- Famous Food: Seafood Platter (Non-Veg)

It is advisable to check the current status and opening hours of the restaurants as they can change. These dining spots offer an introduction to the distinctive flavors of Anuradhapura and provide a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options to suit various dietary preferences.