The sacred city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, is made up of monastic complexes dedicated to different sects of Buddhism including Theravada, Mahavihara, and Mahayana. It also has four monumental stupas (Jetavana, Ruyanwelisaya, Mirisavati and Abhayagiri).
Visitors can also see the ruins of fortified walls and a system of moats that protected the secular part of the city known as the Citadel. The outskirts of Anuradhapura were mainly used for agriculture. A remarkably advanced water hydraulic system allowed for year-round irrigation
The lake forest hotel is the most luxurious among Anuradhapura hotels near Ruwanwelisaya. Because an 8 minutes tuk-tuk will take you to the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka, in particular Anuradhapura, which houses the oldest stupa in Sri Lanka. The 2 millennia architectural wonder is considered to be one of the major Buddhist monuments, revered the world over by Buddhist devotees due to a number of Lord Buddha’s Relics being enshrined in this religious complex.
The stupa is best known for being of major religious significance to Buddhists all around the world, frequently receiving visits from pilgrims, as it is one of the 16 places that were visited by Lord Buddha and holds relics of the Lord himself.
It is considered an architectural icon around the world due to its massive height (338-feet) and circumference (950-feet), making it one of the largest ancient manmade structures in the world.
The complex of the Ruwanwelisaya serves as an ideal spot for relaxation too due to its rustic backdrop and pin-drop silence. Why not take the time to meditate and listen to the sounds of nature call to you?
The Ruwanwelisaya possesses a history spanning two millennia, where King Dutugemunu commissioned the construction in the 1st century BC to commemorate the unification of the island of Sri Lanka for the first time after driving out the Chola invaders out of the country.
It is one of the Solosmasthana (the 16 places of veneration) and the Atamasthana (the 8 places of veneration) in the ancient sacred city of Anuradhapura, making it hallowed ground for Buddhist pilgrims arriving at the complex from all over the world.
The architecture of the stupa is a reflection of the Buddha’s teachings, making it an artistic representation of Buddhist values.
Its dome signifies the vastness of the doctrine, the four facets above it represent the Four Noble Truths, the concentric rings indicate the Noble Eightfold Middle Path, and the large crystal at the pinnacle represents the ultimate Buddhist goal of enlightenment.
At the time of completion in 140 BC, Ruwanwelisaya was believed to be the fifth-largest monument in the world.
The season to visit the stupa is during the months of March and September when the weather is ideal for exploring the town of Anuradhapura.
The best time to visit Ruwanwelisaya is during the late afternoon since the grandeur of the stupa really does come alive with many rituals taking place.
It is important to note that this complex is a religious complex, thus making it imperative to be dressed appropriately when exploring the area (cover arms and legs).
There is no entrance fee and it is not that difficult to explore, but it does not hurt to have a few essentials at the ready, such as snacks and ample water.
Please adhere to the rules and regulations set forth by the authorities, as it is a sacred place of worship.
In conclusion, the Ruwanwelisaya serves as a mandatory monument not to be missed by the traveller yearning to learn the unique culture of Sri Lanka and its deep intertwinement with the religion of Buddhism. Title image by: Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion BureauThe information displayed is provided by Ruwanwelisaya
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