Ruwanweli Maha Seya: A Timeless Gem of Anuradhapura
Discover the sacred beauty of Ruwanweli Maha Seya, an ancient Buddhist stupa that embodies Sri Lanka's rich history and spirituality.
Ruwanweli Maha Seya, an iconic Buddhist stupa in Anuradhapura, is a must-visit for tourists seeking spiritual solace and historical depth. This magnificent structure, built in the 2nd century BC, stands as a testament to Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage and offers visitors a serene atmosphere surrounded by lush greenery and ancient relics. Explore the intricate architecture and immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of this sacred site.
A brief summary to Ruwanweli Maha Seya
- 992W+2G9, Abhayawewa Rd, Anuradhapura, LK
- +94252222120
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and witness the sunrise over the stupa.
- Dress modestly and respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, as this is a sacred site.
- Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights into the history and significance of the stupa.
- Stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes, as you may spend significant time walking around the site.
- Visit during the full moon for special religious ceremonies and vibrant local festivities.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from the Anuradhapura Railway Station, exit the station and head north on Station Road. After about 1 kilometer, turn left onto the Abhayawewa Road. Continue straight for about 1.5 kilometers until you see the Ruwanweli Maha Seya on your right. The stupa is hard to miss due to its impressive size.
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Bicycle
From the center of Anuradhapura, rent a bicycle and head towards the Abhayawewa Road. Follow the main road north from the city center for about 2 kilometers until you reach the junction with Abhayawewa Road. Turn left and continue for another kilometer to arrive at Ruwanweli Maha Seya. Cycling is a great way to enjoy the surroundings while making your way to the stupa.
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Tuk-Tuk
You can hire a tuk-tuk from anywhere in Anuradhapura. Simply tell the driver you want to go to Ruwanweli Maha Seya. It is a well-known landmark, so they will know the route. The ride should take about 10-15 minutes depending on your starting point.
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Local Tour
Consider joining a local guided tour that includes Ruwanweli Maha Seya. Many tours start from the city center and will provide transportation as well as a knowledgeable guide to explain the history and significance of the site.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
King Dutugemunu Pillar දුටුගැමුණු ශිලා ස්ථම්භය
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Ancient Lavetory Complex - පුරාණ වැසිකිලි සංකීර්ණය
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Samuddhagiri Vihara Monastery
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Pūraṇa Bhikkuṇī Upāsaya පූරණ භික්ෂුණී උපාසය
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Buddhist Railing
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Royal palace of the anuradhapura kingdom
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Singha Kanuwa, සිංහ කනුව - Anuradhapura
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Isurumuniya clock Tower ඉසුරුමුණිය ඔරලෝසු කණුව
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Isurumuni Royal Temple
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Main Image House
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මාස්තොට පිරිවෙන- අභයගිරිය
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Abayagiriya Stupa
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Tamil Householder's Inscription (දමිළ ගෘහපති ලිපිය)
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Entrance for the Disabled to the Ruwanwalisaya
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Ruwanweli Maha Seya Wheelchair Entry
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Folk Museum
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Ruwanweli Maha Seya Viewing Point
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Archaeological Museum, Anuradhapura
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Lovamahapaya | ලෝවාමහාපාය
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Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
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Thuparamaya
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Maha Viharaya, Anuradhapura
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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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Thuparama Alms Hall ථූපාරාම දාන ශාලාව
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Basawakkulama(බසවක්කුලම)
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Jethawanarama Monastery Complex
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Anuradhapura Unesco Signage
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Essential places to dine
Thisavi Rest
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Kamu Machan
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Rangiri Restaurant - Anuradhapura
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Rangiri Restaurant
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Family Restaurant
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Rasa Gedara ( The House Of Taste )
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Restaurant family
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Alankulama Casserole Restaurant Bank Side
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Sri Gayathri Cafe
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Green Way Restaurant
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Salgado Hotel and Bakery
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Chamy Restaurant Bank Town
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Myburger Family Restaurant
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Carlton
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bikku Gift Center
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Multi Emporium
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Araliya Gift Center
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Walk Way Fashion
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Nirmani Dress Point
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The Lover - Anuradhapura 01
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Volls
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Signature Showroom
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G & G
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CIB Shopping Center - Anuradhapura
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ASB Fashion
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The Factory
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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New Victoria wine stores
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Poshana Mandiraya Ayurvedic Hospital Anuradhapura
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Hudo Lounge
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Sooriya Wessagiri Resort
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Creston Park
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Mihira Wine Stores
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D night restaurant
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Danawwa Restaurant & Juice Bar
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Hotel White House Anuradhapura
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