Ruwanwelisaya
Ruwanwelisaya
4.5
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At 300 feet, it is the third biggest stupa in Anuradhapura.
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4.5
1,020 reviews
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Kamal P
Byron Bay, Australia9,512 contributions
Jan 2020
It is a magnormous edifice which no one can escape from seeing if one is in the sacred area of Anuradhapura. Built 140 years B.C the stupa is enshrined with sacred relics of Lord Buddha. The stupa is in a tranquil environment. The perimeter wall of the stone paved upper terrace (salapathala Maluwa) is decorated with forepart of Elephants making it a very attractive feature. Cylindrical neck "Devatha kotuwa" just above the tee cube "Hatharas kotuwa" has beautiful sculptures. The design, decorations and the structure are fascinating.
Written 5 May 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Richard j
Markham, Canada423 contributions
Dec 2019 • Family
We approached this large stupa , but couldn’t really tour it, as we had with other sites in Anuradhapura.
Still, it is an impressive ancient construction and contrast to what you see there.
The pathway between the two large dagobas in this part of the site is dominated by roaming cows, and a few small, but occasionally aggressive monkeys - watch your step and be wary.
Still, it is an impressive ancient construction and contrast to what you see there.
The pathway between the two large dagobas in this part of the site is dominated by roaming cows, and a few small, but occasionally aggressive monkeys - watch your step and be wary.
Written 1 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kithsiri Rathnayake
Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka43 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
Ruwanweliseya, also known as the Ruwanwelisaya or Ruins of Anuradhapura, is a significant religious site located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It is one of the country's most revered and ancient stupas, holding great religious and historical importance.
Ruwanweliseya is one of the oldest stupas in Sri Lanka, with a history dating back to the 2nd century BC. It stands as a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of the region.
The stupa is an architectural marvel, with a large hemispherical dome and a spire at its center. The entire structure is adorned with intricate carvings and decorative elements, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of ancient Sri Lankan builders.
Ruwanweliseya is a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists. It enshrines relics believed to be associated with Lord Buddha, making it a place of deep spiritual significance for followers of Buddhism.
Visitors often mention the serene and peaceful atmosphere surrounding the stupa. The site is well-maintained, and the lush greenery adds to the overall tranquility, providing a calm and reflective environment for visitors.
Exploring Ruwanweliseya offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich cultural and religious traditions. Observing religious ceremonies or interacting with local worshippers can enhance the cultural experience for visitors.
The stupa's impressive architecture, particularly during sunrise or sunset, provides excellent photo opportunities. Capture the play of light and shadows on the ancient structure to create memorable images.
Anuradhapura Leusire is one of the best places to stay you may contact the hotel via 070 470 7070
Ruwanweliseya is one of the oldest stupas in Sri Lanka, with a history dating back to the 2nd century BC. It stands as a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of the region.
The stupa is an architectural marvel, with a large hemispherical dome and a spire at its center. The entire structure is adorned with intricate carvings and decorative elements, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of ancient Sri Lankan builders.
Ruwanweliseya is a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists. It enshrines relics believed to be associated with Lord Buddha, making it a place of deep spiritual significance for followers of Buddhism.
Visitors often mention the serene and peaceful atmosphere surrounding the stupa. The site is well-maintained, and the lush greenery adds to the overall tranquility, providing a calm and reflective environment for visitors.
Exploring Ruwanweliseya offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich cultural and religious traditions. Observing religious ceremonies or interacting with local worshippers can enhance the cultural experience for visitors.
The stupa's impressive architecture, particularly during sunrise or sunset, provides excellent photo opportunities. Capture the play of light and shadows on the ancient structure to create memorable images.
Anuradhapura Leusire is one of the best places to stay you may contact the hotel via 070 470 7070
Written 19 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Prasanna M
Rowville, Australia237 contributions
Nov 2019 • Family
This is the most sacred sthupa or Dagaba in Sri Lanka. It's said to have the largest collection of Buddha's relics.
King Dutugemunu was responsible for building this great sthupa. It's said that they had few issues during building this Sthupa.
Please ask for the story about King Dutugemunus death and opening up of the Dagaba when you visit.
King Dutugemunu was responsible for building this great sthupa. It's said that they had few issues during building this Sthupa.
Please ask for the story about King Dutugemunus death and opening up of the Dagaba when you visit.
Written 7 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dinna-D
Auckland, New Zealand49 contributions
Mar 2024 • Friends
As the oldest stupa in Sri Lanka, Ruwanwelisaya stands as a magnificent symbol of architectural greatness from ancient times. Also known as the Great Stupa, this incredible structure was constructed by the victorious King Dutugemunu in 140 BC. It was his grand vision to revive Buddhism in the country, and this stupa stands as a testament to his dedication and ambition.
The compound of Ruwanwelisaya is adorned with a stunning parade of elephants carved around its base, adding to its majestic beauty. The design of this site was inspired by the teachings of the Buddha, with each element holding deep significance. The dome represents the vastness of Buddhist doctrine, the four facets symbolize the Four Noble Truths, the concentric rings signify the Noble Eightfold Middle Path, and the large crystal at the pinnacle represents the ultimate goal of enlightenment.
Located near the Jaya Maha Bodhi Tree in Anuradhapura, Ruwanwelisaya is a sacred site that holds relics of the Buddha, attracting worshippers from all over the world. Standing at an impressive height of 388 feet with a base diameter of 90 meters and a circumference of 950 feet, this stupa is recognized as one of the tallest monuments globally.
Ruwanwelisaya is one of the eight revered places in Anuradhapura believed to have been visited by Buddha during his three trips to Sri Lanka. As a place of worship, visitors are required to remove their shoes before entering the area, adding to the sacred atmosphere.
While Ruwanwelisaya is often included in the sights of the 'Sacred City' Archaeological Park, entry to this magnificent site is free as it lies outside the paid area. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as the ruins of Lovamahapaya Brazen Palace and Sri Maha Bodhi, the primary Buddhist site in the region.
The compound of Ruwanwelisaya is adorned with a stunning parade of elephants carved around its base, adding to its majestic beauty. The design of this site was inspired by the teachings of the Buddha, with each element holding deep significance. The dome represents the vastness of Buddhist doctrine, the four facets symbolize the Four Noble Truths, the concentric rings signify the Noble Eightfold Middle Path, and the large crystal at the pinnacle represents the ultimate goal of enlightenment.
Located near the Jaya Maha Bodhi Tree in Anuradhapura, Ruwanwelisaya is a sacred site that holds relics of the Buddha, attracting worshippers from all over the world. Standing at an impressive height of 388 feet with a base diameter of 90 meters and a circumference of 950 feet, this stupa is recognized as one of the tallest monuments globally.
Ruwanwelisaya is one of the eight revered places in Anuradhapura believed to have been visited by Buddha during his three trips to Sri Lanka. As a place of worship, visitors are required to remove their shoes before entering the area, adding to the sacred atmosphere.
While Ruwanwelisaya is often included in the sights of the 'Sacred City' Archaeological Park, entry to this magnificent site is free as it lies outside the paid area. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as the ruins of Lovamahapaya Brazen Palace and Sri Maha Bodhi, the primary Buddhist site in the region.
Written 29 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lieuwe R
Groningen Province, The Netherlands582 contributions
Jul 2024 • Family
Every Buddhist Sri Lankees tries to visit this most sacred temple at least once a year. It is a kind of Mecca of Sri Lanka. Come when night falls then this stupa is nicely lit. It looks like the light is coming from inside. Shoes you leave in the shoe stall, costs 100 rupees per pair. Appropriate clothing required, otherwise you really won't get in. So no bare shoulders, but pants or skirt to the knees.
Automatically translated
Written 19 July 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
selvakumar2015
Chennai (Madras), India1,038 contributions
Sept 2022 • Solo
Beautiful, Centuries old massive Pagoda / Buddha vihara believed to enshrine the relics of Lord Buddha.
The pinnacle is believed to be decorated with precious stones and gems.
A sacred place of worship for Buddhists from all over the world.
It is suggested that the threadbare, worn-out carpets could be replaced and also kept cool by spraying water at regular intervals.
A must visit when you are in Anuradha pura.
The pinnacle is believed to be decorated with precious stones and gems.
A sacred place of worship for Buddhists from all over the world.
It is suggested that the threadbare, worn-out carpets could be replaced and also kept cool by spraying water at regular intervals.
A must visit when you are in Anuradha pura.
Written 10 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alan C
Hong Kong, China362 contributions
Oct 2021 • Couples
It was not too crowded when we visited so we managed to wander around without too much trouble. For this not accustomed to local practice ensure that you are dressed appropriately. A lot of the locals dressed in white, long flowing clothes. We visited early morning and even then it was hot and would have been uncomfortable to walk around bare-footed. Personal preference was for Minihtale over this place, but both definitely worth a visit.
Written 8 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
dianedinky
Dunfermline, UK1,347 contributions
Jan 2020
Very beautiful place and impressive stupa temple and grounds. The elephant statues in particular give a lovely photo opportunity. It does tend to get very busy so try to go at off peak times if you can. As with all temples you need to take your shoes off before you go in, which in this case means a fair bit of walking to get there and then go around it and the ground is baked hot. Take socks to wear or you could really burn your feet!
Watch out too for the ever present monkeys!!!
Watch out too for the ever present monkeys!!!
Written 13 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Film G
New England1,048 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
Near the Bodhi Tree, you gaze upon the stupa, walk around it clockwise, see the many pilgrims. That’s about it. Yes, it’s massive, and one wonders upon the labor that went into its construction, but in the end there is not much to see. After a while, it’s ‘Seen one stupa...’
Written 3 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Is there any entrance fees for Indians?
Written 25 September 2017
no entrance feea for any type of travellers..dnt pay to anyone..
Written 9 November 2017
hi, i would like go here after sunset, normally, need to spend how much time for climb up & visit? seem that many stairs & long path is quite general in SL. pls tell. tks.
Written 30 November 2016
I am really sorry for the late reply as I did not visit this Trip advisor site recently...However it is nearly 3 Km from Anuradhapura where you can drive up to the place...(very close to it) and then walk.The walk up to Dagoba will take only 10 mins from the car park.If you go round the Dagoba and it will take another 10-20 Mins.
Written 6 January 2017
How long does it take by road from Negombo to Anuradhapura? Is it feasible to do that, then visit the Ruvenweloseya and go onto to Sigiriya - all in the one day?
Written 13 August 2016
It will be about three hours travel from Negombo to Anuradhapura, if you travel without stopping using a private vehicle. I would not recommend your schedule of Negombo -> Anuradhapura -> Dambulla, because it would be really exhausting (Don't forget you have to climb the Sigiriya).
Normally morning is the best time to climb the sigirya, because it is very hot at the top of the Sigiriya rock during day time.
My suggestion is go to Anuradhapura, and spend the day there. You have lot of places to visit there. And go to Sigiriya in the evening and spend the night there. Start climbing the Sigiriya early morning of the next day (It will take half a day to climb and get down the Sigiriya).
Written 13 August 2016
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