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Ruwanwelisaya, Anuradhapura

4.6
#2 of 39 in Things to do in Anuradhapura
Must see · Architectural Building · Religious Site
Hailed for its architecture, the stupa of Ruwanwelisaya has a sacred reputation among Buddhists around the world. Once you see its pure white dome towering overhead, it's easy to understand why. Although ancient, the stupa stands as one of the world's tallest monuments, and also holds the titles of one of the Solosmasthana and one of the Atamasthana (places of veneration). Keep in mind you have to remove your shoes to enter, so consider visiting in the morning for cooler weather; if you go in the afternoon, you have to tour the attraction barefoot on the hot stones, or carry a pair of socks with you. Add Ruwanwelisaya to your Anuradhapura travel itinerary, and discover new vacation ideas by using our Anuradhapura online visit planner.
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Tours to Ruwanwelisaya

FROM $70 BOOK WITH VIATOR Anuradhapura Guided City Tour (All-Inclusive Private Day Trip From Colombo)
Duration: 8 to 15 hours
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FROM $70 BOOK WITH VIATOR Anuradhapura Day Tour by private cab
Duration: 9 hours
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FROM $54 BOOK WITH VIATOR Sacred City of Anuradhapura from Habarana
Duration: 10 hours
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Ruwanwelisaya reviews

Rate this attraction
TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
985 reviews
Google
4.8
TripAdvisor
  • By ishankah
    One of the most sacred Buddhist religious places in Sri Lanka. Visit during early morning just before sunrise. It will give you most amazing experience.  more »
  • By Sand77M
    We visited the Ruwanmali Maha Saya with the family & it’s always a place where we are proud of & give us very pace full mind & one of the best place on earth. Sadu Sadu Sadu!  more »
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Google
  • By Achila Liyanarachchi
    love to be here. Calm and quiet in the night, let me do some meditation. Better to keep a cushion as it’s all hard rock around the dagaba. Difficult to sit for long.
  • By Uthpala Pathirana
    Even if you are not a Buddhist, spending few hours here at night will calm your inner self. Recommended to meditate here. The place is venerated very much. Suggesting to avoid Poya days and special sermon times so that you can feel the serenity.
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