Ruwanwelisaya
Ruwanwelisaya
4.5
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At 300 feet, it is the third biggest stupa in Anuradhapura.
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- Kevin TAuckland, New Zealand1,100 contributionsA must see…….A Buddhist shrine, extremely popular and the local draw card. It was very busy and the ticket cost around 7,500 Sri Lanka. Be careful because this one ticket gives you access to other parts of the area and without it, you won’t get in. Enjoy……Visited June 2023Traveled with familyWritten June 5, 2023
- sjpjanakaHambantota, Sri Lanka18 contributionsGreat place to visitThis is religious place every one should visit minimum annually. This place relaxing your mind when you reach until leave anuradapura. Every Buddhist must go one of place to visit to make life peaceful or any religious people can visit there.Visited July 2023Traveled with familyWritten July 22, 2023
- Explore Sri LankaGalle, Sri Lanka62 contributionsSpot for peace of mindThere are floral shops close by. There is a good space for parking vehicles. Kind of platforms in the vicinity of the Stupa for arranging, flowers or other sacrificial things. One of the greatest spots to find peace of mind.Visited June 2023Traveled with familyWritten October 15, 2023
- Kithsiri RathnayakeAnuradhapura, Sri Lanka1 contributionMost revered and ancient stupa in the worldRuwanweliseya, 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 7070Visited November 2023Traveled with familyWritten November 19, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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Kamal P
Byron Bay, Australia3,462 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 May 5, 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, Canada390 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 January 1, 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 Lanka1 contribution
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 November 19, 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, Australia219 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 February 7, 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.
selvakumar2015
Chennai, India684 contributions
Sep 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 October 10, 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, China370 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 October 8, 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, UK734 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 February 13, 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 England973 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 February 3, 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.
Kevin T
Auckland, New Zealand1,100 contributions
Jun 2023 • Family
A Buddhist shrine, extremely popular and the local draw card. It was very busy and the ticket cost around 7,500 Sri Lanka. Be careful because this one ticket gives you access to other parts of the area and without it, you won’t get in. Enjoy……
Written June 5, 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.
Wasantha dissanayake
Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka8 contributions
May 2020 • Family
One of the wonderful places in anuradhapura. Knowing as the most secred place in the word. Near to it also a place called "star gate "which believe to be a place where rulers of that time keeping connection with the universe.
Written May 4, 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.
Divas Sojourn
New Delhi, India12 contributions
Is there any entrance fees for Indians?
Malith De Silva
Moratuwa, Sri Lanka370 contributions
no entrance feea for any type of travellers..dnt pay to anyone..
iamface
Cardiff, UK1,517 contributions
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.
Mohan
Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka20 contributions
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.
goamelb
Melbourne, Australia273 contributions
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?
janith_h
Colombo, Sri Lanka206 contributions
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).
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Frequently Asked Questions about Ruwanwelisaya
- Hotels near Ruwanwelisaya:
- (1.40 mi) Lievi's Tourist Accomodation
- (2.01 mi) Heritage Hotel Anuradhapura
- (0.71 mi) The Sanctuary At Tissawewa
- (2.03 mi) Little Paradise Tourist Guest House and Holiday Home Anuradhapura
- (1.89 mi) Rajarata Hotel Anuradapura
- Restaurants near Ruwanwelisaya:
- (0.94 mi) Bamboo Restaurant Juice Bar
- (2.05 mi) Little Paradise Anuradhapura
- (2.19 mi) Palhena Restaurant
- (0.93 mi) Cafe Rail Restaurant
- (2.15 mi) Mango Mango
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