Ruwanweliseya.

Ruwanweliseya, also known as the Swarnamali Maha Chaitya, is the most venerated and well-known stupa in Sri Lanka. Built by King Dutugemunu in 140 BC, it’s a textbook example of the bubulakara (bubble-like) design of stupas. It’s one of the world’s tallest monuments, standing at 103 metres with a circumference of 290 metres.

Solosmasthana

Buddhists believe that the Buddha visited the island on the three occasions, hallowing 16 locations which would go on to become major Buddhist temples. These include Mahiyangana, Nagadeepa, Kelaniya, Siripada, Diva Guhawa, Digawapiya (in the East), Muthiyangana (in Badulla), Tissamaharama, Kiri Wehera (Katharagama) and Sela Chaithya (in Mihintale).

Six of the 16 locations were located in Anuradhapura, and along with Lankaramaya and Lovamahapaya, are collectively known as the Atamasthana. Ruwanweliseya and the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi are considered the most important of these sites.

The chronicles state that King Devanampiyatissa, after embracing Buddhism, erected a pillar on Arahat Mahinda’s instruction at the site on which the future Ruwanweliseya would be built. The site is said to have been home to a deity named Swarnamali, after whom the stupa is named.

Building the Stupa

The chronicles greatly detail how the stupa was constructed by King Dutugemunu in 140 BC. The rare and precious raw materials required for the stupa are said to have miraculously appeared in locales not far from the city. Stones, bricks, mercury, wood apple resin and fine clay are said to have been used in the foundation, along with sheets of bronze and silver.

The king died before construction could be completed, and it fell to his brother Saddhatissa to complete the stupa.

Ruwanweliseya Today

Restoration of the stupa began in 1893, centuries after Anuradhapura had been abandoned to the jungle. The Venerable Naranvita Sumanasara Thero braved the malaria infested lands, collecting donations and enlisting the help of volunteers. The work was finally completed in 1940, with the “”Sein Bu Crystal”” gifted by Burmese Buddhists being affixed at the pinnacle of the stupa.

Since then, the Ruwanweliseya has been one of the most visited sites of pilgrimage for Sri Lankan Buddhists. The expansive maluwa (seating area around the stupa) can easily seat thousands of devotees. There are four smaller replica stupas on the four corners of this area.

A statue of Dutugemunu watches over the stupa, palms held together in eternal worship.

The stupa is located next to the Basawakkulama tank (Abhaya Wewa), the oldest reservoir in Anuradhapura. There are four gates facing the four directions, but entrance is usually limited to the eastern gate. Near this entrance, there’s an illuminated and paved walkway that leads from Ruwanweliseya to the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi.

The area surrounding the stupa has thousands of brick and granite ruins. This was once the centre of the Mahavihara complex, the heart of Theravada teaching. The tripitaka was studied and preserved here, and later spread to Burma, Thailand and the rest of the Buddhist world.

Travel Tips

The best times to visit Ruwanweliseya are early morning and in the evenings. It gets pretty hot here after 8 – 9 AM. Personally, my favourite time to visit is around 6 PM, when the lovely breeze from the lake drifts in and the granite is still warm from earlier in the day.

Conclusion

Ruwanweliseya is the most important stupa for Buddhists in Sri Lanka. It’s got a fascinating history and is a must-see location for anyone exploring old Anuradhapura.

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp

Highlights.

Latest.

KAMU.

Radisson Colombo’s Indian Night – Review

By Sahasni Gamage We recently had the pleasure of enjoying a wonderful Indian Night at

Kamu Yamu Guide

Introducing Burger King’s New Premium Burger Range

by Jordain de Mel Burger King's Premium Range offers some of the most flavorful gourmet

Highlights Kamu

NH Collection’s Iftar Buffet: A Feast to Remember

A Warm Welcome: Exceptional Hospitality at NH Collection From the moment you enter NH Collection’s

Kamu

An Exquisite Iftar Buffet Experience at Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo

By Sahasni Gamage  Ramadan is all about reflection, togetherness, and, of course, enjoying some amazing

Highlights Kamu Trending

A Sunset Feast by the Sea – Hunger Squad

by Vimasha Weerawansha  Ambience  For those who chase sunsets and savor every golden moment, Hunger

Highlights Kamu

A Delightful Iftar Experience At Sheraton Kosgoda

Traditional Iftar Selection Breaking fast at Sheraton Kosgoda was an experience of elegance and variety,

Highlights Kamu

Trending.

Excel World Launches First-Ever Ramadan Kareem Iftar Buffet

Excel World Entertainment Park in Colombo recently celebrated the launch of its first-ever Ramadan Kareem

Trending

A Trio of Radisson Hotels Gears Up for Markdown Mania 2025 at The World Trade Center

Radisson Hotel Kandy Radisson Hotel Colombo Radisson Blu Resort Galle Kristofer Quadros – Cluster General

Trending

An Exquisite Iftar Buffet Experience at Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo

By Sahasni Gamage  Ramadan is all about reflection, togetherness, and, of course, enjoying some amazing

Highlights Kamu Trending

Embark on a Culinary Journey with Chef Riza Bhatti at Cinnamon Lakeside’s Ithar Promotion

Cinnamon Grand Colombo is thrilled to welcome the celebrated Pakistani chef, Chef Riza Bhatti, for

Trending

Cinnamon Red Colombo invites you to a blessed Iftar – bring 3, 4th dines free

This Ramadan, Cinnamon Red Colombo warmly welcomes guests to experience a truly special Iftar –

Trending

Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo Celebrates Women’s Day with Exclusive Culinary Delights and Special Offers

This Women’s Day, Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo invites guests to indulge in a series of exclusive

Trending

Yamu Guide.

Radisson Colombo’s Indian Night – Review

By Sahasni Gamage We recently had the pleasure of enjoying a wonderful Indian Night at

Kamu Yamu Guide

Iftar Deals for Great Value in 2025

By Fathima Rukaiya, Iftar doesn’t have to be expensive to be delicious! Whether you’re craving

Highlights Trending Yamu Guide

IFTAR Buffet List – 2025

by Fathima Rukaiya, As Ramadan 2025 approaches, food lovers and families are on the lookout

Highlights Trending Yamu Guide

Colombo’s BYOB Gems: 15 Perfect Spots to Pair Your Drink with Delicious Food

by Vimasha Weerawansha Are you on the hunt for dining spots where you can bring

Yamu Guide

14 Romantic Places to Spend  February 14th – Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and if you're looking for the perfect place

Highlights Yamu Guide