Step into the timeless majesty of Lovamahapaya, a testament to the architectural brilliance of ancient Sri Lanka. This magnificent nine-storey monastery complex, nestled between the revered Great Bodhi tree and the ancient Ruwanweli Seya stupa, is a journey through the grandeur of the past. As you wander through the lush forest of 1,600 columns, you will be transported to an era of luxury and spirituality. Explore the nearby Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, Ruwanweli Seya, and Isurumuniya Royal Temple, and discover the engineering brilliance and spiritual devotion that define this sacred city. Let Lovamahapaya be your gateway to an unforgettable experience in Anuradhapura.
Secrets Of Lovamahapaya: A Journey Through History
Nestled between the ancient Ruwanweli Seya stupa and the revered Great Bodhi tree of Anuradhapura, Lovamahapaya is a witness to the architectural thought of ancient Sri Lanka. Known as the Brazen Palace or Lohaprasada, this magnificent nine-storey monastery complex was built by King Dutugemmunu in the 2nd century BC and is now a beautiful forest with 1,600 columns. The school was once adorned with dazzling bronze tile roofs and jewel-encrusted walls, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the past. Although the original structure was destroyed during the reign of King Sadhatissa, its ruins are still awe-inspiring. Today, a modern chapter house stands on these pillars and serves the Maha Vihara monastery. Whether you arrive by bus, train or car, your journey to Lovamahapaya will allow you to experience Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.
1. From Lovamahapaya to Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
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Beneath the serene canopy of Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi lies a living testament to enlightenment, with roots tracing back to 288 BC. Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is a sacred tree and is a descendant of the Bodhi tree, from which the Buddha attained Nirvana and stood happily in a large open temple.
It is the spiritual centre of Anuradhapura and attracts pilgrims who come to meditate and seek solace in its sacred branches. Adjacent to this holy place, just a few steps away, is the revered Lovamahapaya, creating a spiritual connection that joins two ancient ideas. Whether you travel by bus, train, or car, reaching Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi from Lovamahapaya is an easy journey that provides a great connection to Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.
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2. Engineering Brilliance Of Sri Lanka’s Ruwanweli Seya
Image Credit: A.Savin for Wikimedia Commons
In Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, Ruwanweli Seya is a beautiful blend of ancient architecture and spiritual devotion. Housing the sacred relics of Lord Buddha, also known as Mahathupa, Suvarnamali Mahaceti, and Rathnamali Dagaba, this awe-inspiring structure is not only architecturally beautiful but also a testament to the deep spirituality of the ancient Sri Lankans.
The nearby Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, an equally sacred site, complements the grandeur of Ruwanweli Seya, forming a spiritual and historical axis in Anuradhapura. The construction of the Mahathupa, with its intricate layers and legendary relic chamber, hints at a more profound purpose beyond its monumental facade. Ruwanweli Seya is about 500 meters from Lovamahapaya, another important site in Anuradhapura. From Lovamahapaya, head north on the Mahavihara road to reach Ruwanweli Seya.
3. Uncovering the History of Nakha Vehera Near Lovamahapaya
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Nakha Vehera is one of the three rarely visited square-shaped stupas in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, approximately 2.07 km from the Lovamahapaya. This stupa, believed to date back to the late Anuradhapura era (7th-10th centuries), is associated with the Mahayana tradition. The base of the stupa measures around 9×9 meters, and ruins of an image house and other buildings have been discovered in its vicinity.
According to the Mahavamsa, King Mahasena (276-303) is credited with building a stupa east of Anuradhapura, and Nakha Vehera is the only stupa discovered in this area, leading some to believe it was constructed during his reign. Despite its historical significance, the stupa lies off the beaten path, accessible via a barely visible gravel road, making it a challenge to reach, especially during the rainy season.
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4. Ancient Royal Park Of Ranmasu Uyana in the Footsteps of Lovamahapaya
Image Credit: Udeshika Jayapali for Wikimedia Commons
Ranmasu Uyana, also known as the Royal Goldfish Park, is a historic park in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, approximately 2.5 km from Lovamahapaya. This ancient pleasure garden, covering an area of about 40 acres, is a testament to Sri Lanka’s innovative landscape architecture and engineering excellence. The park’s history dates back to the 3rd century BCE when it was established as an alternative to the parks donated to the Sanga Community by King Devanampiyatissa.
The Vessagiriya inscription of Mahinda IV (956-972) mentions the park’s name and connection to the Tissa Wewa reservoir. The park’s unique features include rock boulders connected with stone slabs, bathing ponds, and a cave-like room with sculptured elephants. It is believed that Prince Saliya met his future bride-to-be, Asokamala, at this garden, making it a significant site in Sri Lankan history.
5. Isurumuniya Royal Temple: A Treasure Trove Near Lovamahapaya
Image Credit: Pierre André Leclercq for Wikimedia Commons
Isurumuniya Royal Temple, situated approximately 2.5 km from Lovamahapaya, is a historic temple in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. This ancient temple, built during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa (307 BC to 267 BC), is renowned for its intricate stone carvings. The temple’s most famous carving is the “Isurumuniya Lovers,” a Gupta-style sculpture of the 6th century depicting a couple in a romantic pose.
The temple also features carvings of elephants, a horseman, and the royal family. The temple’s history dates back to when 500 high-caste children were ordained, and Isurumuniya was built as a monastic complex to house them. The temple’s architecture and carvings reflect the innovative landscape architecture and engineering excellence of ancient Sri Lanka.
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Hope you enjoyed reading this Lovamahapaya travel guide. Yet, the words may not do justice to the splendour this place emanates. It’s a place that needs to be seen and experienced, deserving all your attention. To plan your trip to Sri Lanka get in touch with us for a hassle-free and memorable touring experience.
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Cover Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Lovamahapaya
What is the best time of year to visit Lovamahapaya?
The best time to visit Lovamahapaya in Anuradhapura is during the dry season from May to September. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the ancient ruins and cultural sites
What are the weather conditions like in Anuradhapura throughout the year?
Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, experiences a tropical climate with hot temperatures and significant rainfall throughout the year.
What is the location of Lovamahapaya?
Lovamahapaya is situated between the Ruwanweli Seya stupa and the Sri Mahabodiya in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. You can train from Colombo Fort Railway Station to Anuradhapura Railway Station. The journey takes around 4-5 hours. You can also hire a taxi or private car from Colombo to Anuradhapura.
What are the nearby attractions to Lovamahapaya?
The nearby attractions to Lovamahapaya include Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, Ruwanweli Seya, and Isurumuniya Royal Temple, all significant sites in Anuradhapura
What are the architectural features of Lovamahapaya?
Lovamahapaya was originally 150 feet tall, making it one of the tallest structures in Sri Lanka during its time. Lovamahapaya had 40 rows of 40 stone pillars each, totalling 1600 pillars, and was adorned with corals and precious stones. The construction of Lovamahapaya took six years, with the plan brought from the heavens. The original structure of Lovamahapaya was destroyed, but a modern chapter house stands on the same site, serving the Maha Vihara monastery.
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