Thuparama Dagoba, Anuradhapura - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 600 m from Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba and 3 km from Anuradhapura Railway Station, Thuparamaya is a Buddhist stupa in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Located in Mahamewna Park, it is one of the oldest stupas in Sri Lanka and among the prime places to visit as part of the Anuradhapura Tour Packages.

The Thuparamaya Stupa was built by King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd century BC and is the earliest dagoba to be constructed on the island after the introduction of Buddhism. The stupa was renovated by King Aggabodhi II in the 7th century. It is believed to enshrine the collar bone relic of Lord Buddha. The dagoba had been destroyed several times by invading forces and through natural erosion. The last recorded renovation in history was carried out in1862 AD. The name Thuparamaya comes from 'stupa' and 'aramaya' which stands for a residential complex for monks.

This studded Dagoba was built in the shape of a heap of paddy but after several attacks and renovations, it is now found in the shape of a bell. The Stupa follows a special architectural feature called vatadage, a stupa house. The compound is paved with granite and there are 2 rows of stone pillars round the dagoba. On the left of the stupa, one can see the conserved remains of an Image house built by King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd century BC and destined to be the first temple of Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha. The building is adorned by a pair of beautiful guard stones at the entrance. Next to it are the remains of a small building with the two smaller guard stones and a granite doorway. One can also find a small stupa (Padalanchana Stupa) on the opposite side of the walkway.

Timings: 7 AM - 5.30 PM

Entry: USD. 25 for Foreigners & USD. 12 for SAARC Nationals (Including entry to all the historical sites except Maha Bodhi & Isurumuniya)