The Central Cultural Fund has initiated conservation efforts at the ancient Western Monastery Complex in Anuradhapura, with plans to restore historical structures and develop visitor facilities.

Conservation work has commenced at the Anuradhapura Western Monastery Complex, according to the Central Cultural Fund. The project aims to restore and preserve the significant Buddhist heritage site while simultaneously developing infrastructure to improve the experience of visitors to the area.

The Western Monastery Complex comprises multiple monasteries containing Padhanaghara buildings, which historically served as residential and meditation quarters for Buddhist monks. According to Dr. Nilan Cooray, Director General of the Central Cultural Fund, while certain sections of the complex have previously undergone conservation work, substantial areas remain without preservation efforts.

Historical records indicate that the site gained prominence during the 6th and 7th centuries AD, when monks who had separated from the Abhayagiri and Maha Vihara monastic traditions established themselves at these monasteries. The monks utilised these spaces for residential purposes and spiritual contemplation. The current project represents an effort to safeguard these structures for future generations while making the site more accessible to both domestic and international tourists.