When someone asks, “Why visit the temple?” the answer usually concerns its religious or spiritual significance. However, some monuments or temples offer not just these but much more than that- a chance to explore your inner self, meditate and revive. One such temple is Thuparamaya. There can be plenty of reasons that make this place special. Before heading to the temple, you must know its importance, history, and things to do. This guide will help you by detailing the most important info about Thuparamaya.
About Thuparamaya
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Located in the amazing city of Anuradhapura, Thuparamaya, or Thuparama, is the first stupa built in Sri Lanka following the advent of Buddhism. In the third century BCE, during the reign of King Devamnampiyatissa, this ancient stupa of Thuparamaya was constructed, and legend has it containing the right collar bone of Gautama Buddha.
The complex’s remains currently cover an area of around three and a half acres. The stupa’s original shape was akin to a paddy rice shape, which was changed back to a traditional bell shape in 1862. Thuparama underwent numerous alterations over the years, but some of the most notable ones date back to the 7th century BCE when the stupa was embellished with gold and silver castings.
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Things To Do At Thuparamaya
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When at Thuparamaya, looking at the architecture of the complex is a good thing to indulge in. But you can also take guided tours to immerse yourself in the temple’s history. The building is decorated with lovely guard stones at the entryway. The current stupa, which you see, was substantially altered from its original state when it was completed and restored in 1862.
Even after over two millennia, some pillars still have their lotus-shaped crowns and flawless, polished surfaces visible. The well-preserved remnants of the Image House, constructed by King Devanampiyatissa and previously thought to be the first home of the Buddha Tooth Relic, may be found to the left of Thuparamaya. The Padalanchana Stupa, a minor stupa, is located next to the larger stupa, along with a granite gateway and two smaller guard stones.
Places To Visit Nearby Thuparamaya
At Thuparamaya, you get a bundle of other tourist spots to enjoy and appreciate. Here are few of them.
1. Sri Maha Bodhi
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Thuparamaya lies in the city of Anuradhapura. It is one of the most important cities and a part of the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka. It holds great importance as the birthplace of Buddhism in the country, and Thuparamaya is a fine example. The city holds top-notch tourist places such as engineering marvels, archaeological sites, etc. One such fine tourist destination is Sri Maha Bodhi. This is the sacred fig under which Lord Buddha is believed to get enlightenment. Surviving for more than 23 centuries, this is believed to be the world’s oldest tree.
Timing: 6:15 am to 9 pm
Location: 89VW+WWV, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
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2. Kuttam Pokuna
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Another notable spot near Thuparamaya is the Kuttam Pokuna. This is an ancient hydrologic marvel is in the Abhayagiri Ceramic Complex. The twin pond gets water from underground pipes and passes through several small chambers before falling into the pond in the north. Elephant Pond is another significant tourist destination in Anuradhapura. The pond was developed 100 years ago and till date, is supplying water. The pond was made by humans and is around 157 metres long. The width of the pond is around 52 metres and around 9.5 metres deep. The pond can hold more than 70,000 cubic metres of water.
Timings: 6 am to 8 pm
Location: 9C83+89H, B341, Anuradhapura, Sri Lank
3. Isurumuniya Rock Temple
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With a history stretching back to the third century BCE, The Isurumuniya Rock Temple near Thuparamaya is among the oldest in Sri Lanka. The temple is well-known for its “Lover’s Seat” sculpture, which shows a couple cuddling up together. This stupa, which dates to the third century BCE and was constructed during King Devanampiya Tissa’s reign, is thought to be the first stupa ever constructed in Sri Lanka. This is one of the stupa’s oldest artefacts and is thought to be the collarbone of Lord Buddha. It is among its most fascinating features. The stupa’s architectural design embodies the hemispherical dome perched above a square framework, which is a hallmark of early Indian building.
Timings:7:30 am to 6:30 pm
Location:89MR+R7R, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
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4. Brazen Palace
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Built by King Dutugemunu in the second century B.C., the 2000-year-old Brazen Palace, also known as Lovamahapaya, featured 1600 stone columns. These are supporting nine levels that reached 150 feet and 400 feet of sides with 1000 rooms. Because of the bronze tiles that were utilized on its roof, it is also referred to as the Brazen Place. Built to house up to 1000 Buddhist monks, Lovamahapaya was meant to be a place of residence for them when they gathered on “Poya” days (a full moon day observed as a holiday in modern-day Sri Lanka) to recite the “Pirith,” a Buddhist ritual that involves reciting specific verses and scriptures to ward off misfortune or danger.
Timings: Open all day
Location: 89WX+95G, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
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Thuparamaya is not just a monument, but a gateway to travel back to time. It is a spot that takes you back to the ancient ages of sages, monks and priests. When you arrive here, you will wonder about the architectural brilliance and religious culture of our ancestors. Plan your trip to Sri Lanka now and include the visit to Thuparamaya and you will never regret your decision.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Thuparamaya
What is the Thuparamaya Location?
Thuparamaya Location is 994W+4HQ, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Located in the sacred city of Anuradhapura, Thuparamaya is easily accessible and holds immense historical and religious significance.
What is the height of the Thuparamaya Stupa?
The Thuparamaya Stupa height is around 50 metres. This towering structure is not only impressive due to its height but also because of its unique architectural design.
What are the timings to visit Thuparamaya Stupa?
The Thuparamaya opens up early in the morning at 7:00 and remains open till evening 5:00 pm.
What is so special about Thuparamaya?
Thuparamaya is said to be highly important as it was the first Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka and hence, stands as an emblem of religious significance for the country. Established by King Devanampiya Tissa following the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka by Mahinda Thera, the son of Emperor Ashoka of India, Thuparamaya marks the beginning of Buddhist architecture in the country.
What is the fee to visit Thuparamaya?
There is no entry fee to visit or explore Thuparamaya. This accessibility ensures that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, can experience the profound spiritual and historical importance of this site.
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