The Ruwanwelisaya Stupa sits in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It’s a vast Buddhist structure, one of the world’s biggest, also known as the Great Stupa. Built during the 2nd century BCE, the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa upholds Sri Lanka’s cultural and religious history. The Stupa’s half-globe shape, tall stance, and detailed design draw attention from onlookers. Buddhists view it as a holy site since they think it holds Buddha’s relics. Visiting the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa is a unique, awe-striking journey, offering insight into Sri Lanka’s deep spiritual history.
Places To Visit Near Ruwanwelisaya Stupa
The Ruwanwelisaya Stupa is highly respected as a historic Buddhist landmark in Sri Lanka. It is located in the old city of Anuradhapura. Guests can discover other key archaeological and cultural landmarks near this remarkable stupa.
1. Abhayagiriya Monastery
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Inside the old city of Anuradhapura, you’ll find the Abhayagiriya Monastery. It’s a big chunk of Sri Lanka’s history with Buddhism. This large area, built around the 3rd century BCE, was once a key Buddhist university. It was famous and attracted people from all around. Now, people can visit the Abhayagiriya Monastery to see the huge ruins and learn about Sri Lanka’s history. The main point of interest is the Abhayagiri Dagaba.
The Abhayagiri Dagaba is truly captivating. It stands at a towering height of 75 metres. Its semi-circle shape is unique. Look at all the intricate designs! Our ancient artisans were incredibly talented. Take a good look around. You’ll find an abundance of historical treasures. There are old monasteries. Archives too. Spots for quiet reflection – they’re all there. Notice the engraved stones. The stunning entrances, the serene pools. Together, they give a feeling of stepping back in time and immersing themselves in the vibrant history that once unfolded here.
Location: Anuradhapura, in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
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2. Jetavanarama Monastery
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The ancient city of Anuradhapura cradles the Jetavanarama Monastery. It’s near the famous Ruwanwelisaya Stupa. This compelling monastery is a treasure trove of culture and history. It once housed a massive Buddha statue, the biggest brick statue globally. On arrival at Jetavanarama, you find tranquillity. A prominent stupa peaks over the green trees, showcasing the awe-inspiring skill of ancient builders. Exploring reveals a different time. A time when the monastery was buzzing with spirituality and Buddhist learning. The key feature of Jetavanarama Monastery is the massive Buddha statue’s remnants. The statue may have fallen, but its gigantic base lives on. It’s proof of the particular respect the Buddhist community once living here held. Visitors can wander and visualise the Buddha statue in its heyday. It’s believed to have been the biggest brick statue in the world.
Beyond the signature stupa and Buddha statue ruins, Jetavanarama Monastery offers many architectural and archaeological gems. Detailed stone designs, decorative entrances, and quiet ponds add to the place’s charm. Dive into the deep-rooted spirituality and rich history of this extraordinary place.
Location: Anuradhapura, in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
3. Isurumuniya Temple
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Picture this – Anuradhapura, an ancient Sri Lankan city home to the Isurumuniya Temple. This rock temple is a real treasure. Carved into a hill. It’s filled with vibrant rock carvings. The sculptures draw visitors globally. Its peaceful setting – surrounded by greenery and calm ponds – greets you as you enter. You can’t miss the “Lovers” carving. A beautiful rock relief showing an embracing couple. This sculpture symbolises the excellent skills of Sri Lanka’s ancient sculptors and the many unique carvings on the temple walls. Beyond the carvings, there’s more to see at Isurumuniya Temple.
It also houses old stone structures, a small stupa, and remains of a former monastic complex. When you’re walk around, you’ll see different buildings and learn about the old temple’s past and purpose. Isurumuniya Temple invites many with its calm scene and influential art. People who follow religions and those who like cultures adore it. The temple, with its blend of nature, amazing structures, and spiritual sense, calls everyone for a special experience.
Location: Anuradhapura, in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
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4. Kuttam Pokuna
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In the old city of Anuradhapura, there’s something fascinating called Kuttam Pokuna or “Twin Ponds.” They shows us how refined Sri Lanka’s past was. The two ponds, once part of a large monastery, were tied to the famous Ruwanwelisaya Stupa. Buddhist monks found them to be significant in their everyday life. As you get to the Kuttam Pokuna, you’ll notice the calming, scenic environment. Nestled among greenery, these expertly made twin ponds create a feeling of peace as they reflect nature around them.
The measured steps towards the water show the ancient builder’s skill and eye for detail. You can walk around Kuttam Pokuna, inhaling the calming air and observing the well-preserved structures. These ponds are engineering marvels, boasting intricate drainage and water control.
Location: Anuradhapura, in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
5. Thuparama Dagaba
Image Credit: Nipuna Gamage for Wikimedia Commons
In the old city of Anuradhapura sits the Thuparama Dagaba, an old Buddhist stupa in Sri Lanka. Faithful from everywhere consider it a critical spiritual spot. Why? It holds a special relic from the Buddha. As you get closer, you’ll notice its unique design and architecture. It’s all about symmetry with an even dome backed by a sea of green plants. The fine craftsmanship is evident in the small stone carvings and details. They add to the beautiful scene that wows anyone who has eyes on it.
The story of the Thuparama Dagaba goes way back. It’s thought to have been put up in the 3rd century BCE. This puts it amongst the first Buddhist structures in Sri Lanka. Its solid state and the respect it gets show Buddhism’s long-lasting impact. Walk around the Thuparama Dagaba, and you’ll see more than just the stupa. The quiet grounds also hold stone ruins of an old monks’ home. This calmness and the spiritual vibe let folks think about the deep history and cultural worth of this unique place.
Location: Anuradhapura, in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
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6. Mirisaveti Stupa
Image Credit: Nipuna Gamage for Wikimedia Commons
In the middle of old Anuradhapura city, the Mirisaveti Stupa sits. It shows off the deep-rooted cultural and architectural accomplishments of Buddhist Sri Lanka. Close by is the famous Ruwanwelisaya, another ancient stupa. The Mirisaveti is rich with impressive stone designs and has a buzzing history tied to its creation. As folks step into the site with neat ruins, they feel peace. The massive stupa, including carvings on the base, reflects ancient builders’ superb skills. It offers a small look into the treasured artistic and cultural traditions of Sri Lanka’s early Buddhists. The Mirisaveti Stupa captivates, with a legend swirling around it. The stupa, so says history, was ordered by King Dutthagamani. He built it using soil from the 68 battlefields where he beat his rival, King Elara.
Erecting a stupa using the soil that saw past conflicts gave the Mirisaveti Stupa deep cultural and spiritual value. Looking at the stupa’s neat ruins feels like stepping into the past. This used to be a hub of Buddhist faith and reflection. The peaceful atmosphere and past of Mirisaveti Stupa make it a must-visit if you’re interested in discovering the ancient charm of Anuradhapura.
Location: Anuradhapura, in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
7. Naga Pokuna
In the old city of Anuradhapura, there’s a particular spot called Naga Pokuna, or “Snake Pond.” The calm water pond is where a giant rock snake with many heads lives. This snake is thought to show the stories of the Naga people, who were said to have lived in this area long ago. When you first get to Naga Pokuna, you feel a sense of peace. The pond water reflects the green trees and plants around it, making the place look balanced and restful.
This peaceful pond is where you can see the amazing rock snake carving up close. The snake carving itself is an awesome piece of art. It looks like a real snake with many heads coming out of the water. The details and how life-like it looks show how talented the people who made it were. The snake or Naga is important in Sri Lanka’s storytelling, showing both nature’s power and sacred things. This carving at Naga Pokuna shows that this place was very meaningful to the once-local people.
Location: Anuradhapura, in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
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Take a peaceful stroll in the quiet space. Look at the dome-shaped stupa. You’ll feel a mix of now and history. The Ruwanwelisaya isn’t just a stone carving. It’s Sri Lanka’s respect for Buddha’s wisdom, alive and breathing. Route your visit to the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa. Dive deeper into Sri Lanka’s enchanting spiritual roots. View the impressive size of the monument. Link with the deep Buddhist values of the country. You’ll be surprised and fond of the eternal gems that Sri Lanka offers. Book your trip to Sri Lanka. Start a fantastic journey that will touch your heart deeply.
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Cover Image Credit: Lankapic for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Ruwanwelisaya Stupa
What is the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa?
It's a big, ancient stupa in the old city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, a spot sacred to Buddhists. It's widely known because of its striking size and grand design. The stupa is in Anuradhapura, North Central Province, Sri Lanka.
Where is the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa located?
The location points to 8.3448° N, 80.3845° E. King Dutthagamani initiated the construction of the stupa in the 2nd century BCE. Sure, it's changed a bit over time. However, the primary structure? Remarkably, it's the same as ever.
When was the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa built?
This grand structure originated in the 2nd century BCE, under King Dutthagamani's rule. Although it has seen numerous transformations and rebuildings throughout many years, the heart of its architecture stays the same.
What are the unique features of Ruwanwelisaya Stupa?
This isn't merely huge, measuring a diameter of 338 feet and a height of 180 feet. It also features intricate stone sculptures and a special tale of uniting an island.
How long does it take to explore the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa?
It differs. You may take one to two hours exploring the stupa and closeby ancient locations. Yet, if your goal is to truly grasp its significance and delve into Anuradhapura's rich past, allow for a minimum of half a day, possibly the whole day.
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