A ruined 9th-century school for monks northwest of the Abhayagiri Dagoba is notable for having the finest carved moonstone in Sri Lanka; see how many species of animals you can find in its elaborate carvings. This is a peaceful wooded area full of butterflies, and makes a good place to stop and cool off during a tour of the ruins (there are drinks and snack stands close by). Look for the fine steps featuring plump little figures.
It forms part of a structure often mistakenly described as Mahasena’s Palace or the Queen’s Pavilion.
