Ranmasu Uyana (Royal Park)

An Ancient Garden On 23rd November 2025, our group of thirteen, travelling with Flamingo Lanka, walked up from Isurumuniya temple via a narrow path to this beautifully landscaped garden area, Ranmasu Uyana. Located between the reservoir Tissa Wewa and the Isurumuni temple is this 40 acre garden Ranmasu Uyana used by ancient royals. The stone ponds and pavilions here are said to have been established in the 8th and 9th centuries BCE, though now in ruins. The shower houses and the stone ponds are the main attraction in the garden. The water provided to these had been directed through a network of underground pipes and channels starting from the nearby Tissa Wewa reservoir. Ancient engineers had designed a rain-like water spray system at the chambers for the use and pleasure of the royalty. We spent about 45 minutes enjoying the beauty and tranquil atmosphere.

Ranmasu Uyana is a beautiful, peaceful, and historically fascinating site. It’s a well-preserved ancient royal pleasure garden and hydraulic masterpiece next to the Isurumuniya complex There are the ancient ponds, waterworks, and ruined garden structures, often marveling at the setup’s age and sophistication. The “Star Gate” / Sakwala Chakraya A standout feature is the mysterious rock carving known as the Sakwala Chakraya. Many travellers find this intriguing and unique — some even refer to it as mystical or enigmatic, though its exact meaning remains debated

Ranmasu Uyana is an incredible example of the sophistication of ancient Sri Lankan engineering, with its ponds and water systems still impressive today. The site’s carvings, especially the unique ‘Star Gate,’ make it an important cultural treasure. Such a peaceful spot to walk around. The ponds and ruins are beautiful, and the place has a mysterious charm with the famous ‘Star Gate’ carving. Perfect if you enjoy history mixed with nature.

A beautiful place to see ancient architecture. Unfortunately it was a little dry when we visited. Couldn’t help but wonde how amazing it would’ve looked back then.

Ranmasu Uyana, also known as the Royal Goldfish Park, is an ancient royal pleasure garden located in the sacred city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Spanning approximately 40 acres, it is situated between the Tissa Wewa reservoir and the Isurumuniya Rock Temple. The site is celebrated as a masterpiece of ancient landscape architecture and hydraulic engineering. Key Features and History • Royal Origins: Traditionally believed to date back to the 3rd century BCE (during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa), though many of the surviving stone structures and pavilions date to the 8th–10th centuries CE. • Engineering Excellence: The park features a sophisticated hydraulics system. Water from the Tissa Wewa reservoir was gravity-fed into various stone-carved bathing ponds and swimming pools before being released to irrigate nearby rice fields. • Royal Legend: According to popular folklore, Prince Saliya (son of King Dutugemunu) met his beloved Asokamala in this garden, leading him to renounce his right to the throne. • Architecture: The park includes natural rock formations integrated into its design, stone couches, and ruins of small pavilions where royalty would relax. The Mystery of "Sakwala Chakraya" (The Stargate) The most controversial and famous feature of Ranmasu Uyana is a circular rock carving known as the Sakwala Chakraya (Universe Cycle).

If you want to see ancient Sri Lankans understanding of irrigation systems and related structures this would be a place. Also there is a place which mystery of ancient knowledge of space and time.

Ranmasu Uyana is a park in Sri Lanka containing the ancient Magul Uyana (Royal Gardens). It is situated close to Isurumuni Vihara and Tissa Wewa in the ancient sacred city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It sits on approximately 40 acres (16 ha), and is a noted example of Sri Lankan garden architecture of the pre-Christian era. According to an inscription found in Vessagiriya, the water to the park was supplied by Tessa Wewa and then released to rice fields around Isurumuni Vihara. In the park are various ponds, and the remains of small buildings. According to legend it is believed that Prince Saliya met Asokamala in this garden.[citation needed] Ranmasu means Goldfish. The Royal Goldfish Park has the Star Gate map which is encircled by fish.

“Ranmasu Uyana is a peaceful and historically fascinating place. The ancient ponds, stone carvings, and calm natural surroundings make it perfect for walking, relaxing, and exploring. The environment is quiet and well-preserved, offering a beautiful blend of nature and history. A great spot to visit when you are in