The Majestic Ruwanweli Maha Seya Viewing Point
Discover the spiritual heart of Sri Lanka at the breathtaking Ruwanweli Maha Seya Viewing Point, where history, culture, and nature unite.
A brief summary to Ruwanweli Maha Seya Viewing Point
- 992X+9CC, Anuradhapura, LK
The Ruwanweli Maha Seya Viewing Point stands as an iconic landmark in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, a city that is the cradle of ancient Buddhist civilization. This viewing point offers an unparalleled perspective of the Ruwanweli Maha Seya, one of the largest and most sacred stupas in Sri Lanka, revered for its historical and religious significance. Built during the reign of King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BCE, the stupa houses relics of the Buddha and symbolizes the devotion of the Sri Lankan people to Buddhism. As visitors approach the viewing point, they are greeted by impressive vistas of the stupa, which rises majestically against the backdrop of a clear blue sky. The serene atmosphere is complemented by the gentle rustle of leaves from the surrounding trees, creating a peaceful retreat that invites contemplation and reflection. Tourists can enjoy not only the stunning architectural beauty of the stupa but also the surrounding lush landscapes that provide a perfect setting for photography enthusiasts. This location is not just about visual appeal; it is steeped in history and spirituality. The stupa is a significant pilgrimage site, where both local devotees and international travelers come to pay their respects. The Ruwanweli Maha Seya is often associated with numerous legends and tales that add to its charm and allure. Visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquil ambiance, partake in local customs, and learn more about the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. Whether you are a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or a nature lover, the Ruwanweli Maha Seya Viewing Point promises an enriching experience that resonates with the heart and soul of Sri Lanka.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the serene atmosphere and avoid crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and the intricate details of the stupa.
- Dress modestly, as this is a sacred site, and be respectful of local customs.
- Engage with local guides to learn more about the rich history and significance of the stupa.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from Anuradhapura Railway Station, exit the station and turn left onto Station Road. Walk straight until you reach the intersection with Kandy Road (A9). Turn right onto Kandy Road and continue walking for about 1.5 kilometers. Keep an eye out for the signs directing you to Ruwanweli Maha Seya. As you get closer, you will see the large white stupa in the distance. Follow the signs and continue walking until you reach the entrance to the Ruwanweli Maha Seya site.
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Bicycle
From the Anuradhapura town center, rent a bicycle from one of the local shops. Head south on Hospital Road until you reach the main road (Kandy Road, A9). Turn right and cycle for about 1.5 kilometers. As you approach the Ruwanweli Maha Seya, you will see the stupa visible in the distance. There are bike racks available near the entrance where you can lock your bicycle.
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Tuk-Tuk
Hail a tuk-tuk from anywhere in Anuradhapura and tell the driver you want to go to Ruwanweli Maha Seya. Most drivers are familiar with the location. The ride should take around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Make sure to agree on a fare before starting your journey. Once you arrive, the tuk-tuk will drop you off at the entrance of the site.
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Public Bus
If you are near the central bus station in Anuradhapura, take a local bus heading towards Mihintale or any bus that passes by Kandy Road. Inform the conductor that you want to get off at Ruwanweli Maha Seya. The bus ride will take about 15-20 minutes. Once you get off, follow the signs directing you to the entrance of the stupa.
Attractions Nearby to Ruwanweli Maha Seya Viewing Point
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Image House of Jethawanaramaya - ජේතවනාරාම පිළිම ගෙය
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Jethawanarama Pilima Geya - ජේතවනාරාමය පිළිම ගෙය
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Ruwanweli Maha Seya
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The Entrance for the Disabled to the Ruwanwalisaya
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Ruwanweli Maha Seya Wheelchair Entry
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Jethawanarama Monastery Complex
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Thuparama Alms Hall ථූපාරාම දාන ශාලාව
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Yathuru Pokuna 2 Jetavanaramaya- ජේතවනාරාමය යතුරු පොකුණ 2
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Anuradhapura Unesco Signage
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Jethawanarama stone fence ( ගල් ගරාදි වැට)
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Jethawanaramaya
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Lovamahapaya | ලෝවාමහාපාය
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Folk Museum
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Jethawanaramaya southern pond
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Jetavanarama Museum
Landmarks nearby to Ruwanweli Maha Seya Viewing Point
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Ancient Round Well ඓතිහාසික වට පොකුණ
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Ancient Lavetory Complex - පුරාණ වැසිකිලි සංකීර්ණය
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King Dutugemunu Pillar දුටුගැමුණු ශිලා ස්ථම්භය
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Samuddhagiri Vihara Monastery
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Pūraṇa Bhikkuṇī Upāsaya පූරණ භික්ෂුණී උපාසය
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Unidentified structure
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Buddhist Railing
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Singha Kanuwa, සිංහ කනුව - Anuradhapura
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Isurumuniya clock Tower ඉසුරුමුණිය ඔරලෝසු කණුව
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Main Image House
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මාස්තොට පිරිවෙන- අභයගිරිය
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Isurumuniya Temple
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Isurumuni Royal Temple
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Elephant Pond ඇත් පොකුණ
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Twin ponds (කුට්ටම් පොකුණ)