Ruwanweli Maha Seya: A Serene Pilgrimage in Anuradhapura
Discover peace and spirituality at Ruwanweli Maha Seya, an ancient Buddhist stupa in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
Ruwanweli Maha Seya, also known as the Ruwanwelisaya, is one of Sri Lanka's most iconic and venerated Buddhist stupas, situated in the historical city of Anuradhapura. This majestic structure, originally built in the 2nd century BC, is a testament to the country's rich cultural and religious heritage. The stupa stands at an impressive height, encased in gleaming white plaster, and is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a peaceful atmosphere that invites introspection and reverence. Visitors will be captivated by the intricate carvings and ancient relics that adorn the site, offering a glimpse into the architectural prowess of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. As you approach the stupa, the serene ambiance is palpable, making it a perfect spot for meditation and reflection. The Ruwanweli Maha Seya is not just a place of worship but also a historical landmark that tells the story of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Tourists can engage with local devotees, participate in traditional rituals, or simply enjoy a moment of tranquility as they take in the stunning views. The site is accessible, with wheelchair-friendly pathways ensuring that everyone can appreciate its magnificence. Whether you seek spiritual solace or a deeper understanding of Sri Lankan culture, a visit to Ruwanweli Maha Seya promises an enriching experience steeped in history and peace.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility before crowds arrive.
- Dress modestly as a sign of respect when visiting religious sites.
- Take time to engage with local worshippers for a deeper understanding of the rituals.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and serene landscapes.
- Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially during religious ceremonies.
A brief summary to Ruwanweli Maha Seya Wheelchair Entry
- 992W+GGX, Abhayawewa Rd, Anuradhapura, LK
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from the Anuradhapura Railway Station, exit the station and turn right onto Station Road. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with the main road, then turn left onto the Kandy Road. Walk along Kandy Road for approximately 1.5 kilometers until you reach the junction with Abhayawewa Road. Turn right onto Abhayawewa Road. Continue straight for about 1 kilometer, and you will find the Ruwanweli Maha Seya Wheelchair Entry on your left side at the address 992W+GGX.
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Walking
If you are near the Anuradhapura Museum, exit the museum and head east towards the main road. Cross the road and turn left to walk along the road for about 500 meters until you reach the junction with Abhayawewa Road. Turn right onto Abhayawewa Road and walk straight for approximately 1 kilometer. The Ruwanweli Maha Seya Wheelchair Entry will be on your left at 992W+GGX.
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Walking
If you are at the Abhayagiri Dagoba, exit the site and walk back towards the main road. Turn left and walk along the main road for about 1 kilometer. You will reach the junction with Abhayawewa Road. Turn right onto Abhayawewa Road and continue for about 600 meters. The Ruwanweli Maha Seya Wheelchair Entry will be on your left at 992W+GGX.
Attractions Nearby to Ruwanweli Maha Seya Wheelchair Entry
- The Entrance for the Disabled to the Ruwanwalisaya
- Ruwanweli Maha Seya
- Ruwanweli Maha Seya Viewing Point
- Folk Museum
- Thuparamaya
- Thuparama Alms Hall ථූපාරාම දාන ශාලාව
- Archaeological Museum, Anuradhapura
- Image House of Jethawanaramaya - ජේතවනාරාම පිළිම ගෙය
- Jethawanarama Pilima Geya - ජේතවනාරාමය පිළිම ගෙය
- Basawakkulama(බසවක්කුලම)
- Lovamahapaya | ලෝවාමහාපාය
- Basawakkulama Tank බසවක්කුලම වැwa
- Jethawanarama Monastery Complex
- Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
- Maha Viharaya, Anuradhapura
Landmarks nearby to Ruwanweli Maha Seya Wheelchair Entry
- King Dutugemunu Pillar දුටුගැමුණු ශිලා ස්ථම්භය
- Samuddhagiri Vihara Monastery
- Ancient Round Well ඓතිහාසික වට පොකුණ
- Unidentified structure
- Ancient Lavetory Complex - පුරාණ වැසිකිලි සංකීර්ණය
- Pūraṇa Bhikkuṇī Upāsaya පූරණ භික්ෂුණී උපාසය
- Buddhist Railing
- Singha Kanuwa, සිංහ කනුව - Anuradhapura
- Main Image House
- මාස්තොට පිරිවෙන- අභයගිරිය
- Isurumuniya clock Tower ඉසුරුමුණිය ඔරලෝසු කණුව
- Isurumuni Royal Temple
- Tamil Householder's Inscription (දමිළ ගෘහපති ලිපිය)
- North Pond [ උතුරු පොකුණ ]
- Western Monastery Complex - I