Ruwanwelisaya stupa, Buddhist monuments in Sri Lanka
Ruwanwelisaya
The great stupa, one of the most revered Buddhist monuments in Sri Lanka, was built in the 2nd century BC under the patronage of King Dutugemunu. Construction of this magnificent stupa began around 166 BC, but the king did not live to see its completion. After his passing, his brother and successor, Saddha Tissa, continued and completed the work
architectural marvel
Architecturally, Ruwanwelisaya is designed in the graceful form of a water bubble, symbolising purity and spiritual perfection. The stupa rises to an impressive height of about 300 feet, with a base diameter of approximately 294 feet, demonstrating the remarkable engineering and architectural mastery of ancient Sri Lanka.
The most iconic attraction in Anuradhapura
Ruwanwelisaya holds immense religious significance and is believed to enshrine a large portion of the sacred relics of Gautama Buddha—traditionally said to be one “Dona” of relics, making it one of the most important relic stupas in the Buddhist world.
Today, this majestic monument remains a central place of worship and one of the most iconic attractions in the sacred city of Anuradhapura, drawing thousands of pilgrims and visitors who come to experience its spiritual atmosphere and timeless beauty.