Ruwanweli Maha Seya
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Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle - Western Ancient City:Anuradhapura
leoleo
230
The sacred city of Anuradhapura has been listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site for its well-preserved ruins and relics of the Sinhala civilization 🇱🇰✨ Nowadays, the ancient capital city of Sri Lanka is considered as the cradle of Buddhism 🧘🏼♀️☀️ We stayed in these cute villa’s of @avasta_resorts_and_spa A peaceful resort right in the middle of the sacred city of Anuradhapura with all the facilities you need: spa, gym, swimming pool, etc 🤩🫶🏼 From here, you can easily visit Mihintale, Ruwanweliseya stupa and many more highlights of this amazing place 💐✨ 👉🏼 @avasta_resorts_and_spa 📍Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka #anuradhapura #srilanka #mihintale #mihintalesacredcity #ruwanweliseya #bodhitree #buddhism #buddha #srilankatravel #srilankatourism #srilankaresorts #srilankahotels #travelinfluencer #instatravel #bucketlist #temples #templesofsrilanka #resortlife #hoteldesign #boutiquehotel #hotelinterior #hoteldesign #likesforlike
heidifromhollandheidifromholland
1.1K25
The Ruwanweli Maha Seya, also known as Ruwanwelisaya, is an awe-inspiring and sacred stupa located in the heart of the ancient city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. This iconic Buddhist monument, built by King Dutugemunu around 140 BC, stands as a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of Sri Lanka. Here's why you should definitely include it in your travel itinerary: Architectural Marvel The Ruwanwelisaya is an architectural masterpiece with its pristine white dome, soaring to a height of about 103 meters. The stupa's elegant and symmetrical design, coupled with its massive size, makes it a sight to behold. The intricate details and the sheer scale of the structure are a testament to the advanced engineering skills of ancient Sri Lankan builders. Historical and Religious Significance As one of the most venerated stupas in Sri Lanka, Ruwanwelisaya holds immense religious significance for Buddhists. It is believed to enshrine relics of the Buddha, making it a major pilgrimage site. The atmosphere around the stupa is serene and reverent, providing a perfect place for meditation and reflection. Beautiful Surroundings The stupa is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and well-maintained pathways. The area is dotted with ancient ruins, statues, and smaller stupas, adding to the historical ambiance. The grounds are clean, peaceful, and provide ample space for walking and contemplation. Visitor Facilities The facilities for visitors are well thought out and convenient. The Ruwanwelisaya car park, located nearby, offers ample parking space and is easily accessible. There are restrooms, drinking water facilities, and seating areas available for visitors. The pathways from the car park to the stupa are well-maintained and accessible, ensuring a comfortable visit for everyone, including those with mobility issues. Cultural Experience Visiting Ruwanwelisaya offers a profound cultural experience. You can witness traditional Buddhist rituals and ceremonies, especially during Poya days (full moon days) and other religious festivals. The site provides a deep insight into the Buddhist practices and the historical significance of Anuradhapura as a religious center. Tips for Visitors - **Dress Modestly**: As a sacred site, it's important to dress modestly. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. - **Remove Shoes**: You'll need to remove your shoes before entering the stupa area, so it's a good idea to wear easily removable footwear. - **Best Time to Visit**: Early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended to avoid the midday heat and to enjoy the stupa in the soft light of sunrise or sunset. - **Stay Hydrated**: Carry water with you, especially if you plan to walk around the expansive grounds. Final Thoughts Ruwanwelisaya is more than just a historical monument; it's a place of spiritual significance and profound beauty. Whether you're a pilgrim, a history enthusiast, or a curious traveler, a visit to this magnificent stupa will leave you with a sense of awe and reverence. The serene environment, coupled with the grandeur of the stupa, makes it a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka.
Chirath JeewanthaChirath Jeewantha
00
Ruwanweliseya was built during the ancient Anuradhapura period, whose history dates back to the 3rd century BCE. It was constructed to enshrine and honor relics of Lord Buddha. Ruwanweliseya was built by King Dutugamunu in 140 BC. However, due to various factors such as natural disasters and invasions, the stupa fell into disrepair. It was later restored and expanded by subsequent kings and rulers, with renovations taking place throughout different periods. The Stupa size of Ruwanwelisaya is quite large and impressive. Today it stands at a height of approximately 338 feet (103 meters). The diameter of the stupa's base is around 300 feet (91 meters). The Stupa is constructed using brick and has a hemispherical shape called Bubbulakara or Bubble shape with a Spire, representing the Buddhist concept of reaching spiritual enlightenment Ruwanweli stupa holds a distinguished position as the most celebrated stupa in Sri Lanka, and its rich history is documented extensively in the Mahavamsa, a significant historical chronicle of the island. While not the largest or oldest among the stupas constructed in Anuradhapura, it surpasses them all in terms of significance. This is primarily due to the fact that it enshrines a remarkable collection of relics associated with Gautama Buddha, surpassing any other stupa on the island in this regard. The presence of such esteemed relics within the Ruwanweli dagaba has made it a site of exceptional sanctity and reverence among Buddhists. Throughout the ages, it has been cherished as a monument of unique importance, symbolizing the spiritual essence of Buddhism. Even today, the stupa continues to inspire profound veneration and respect from devotees, maintaining its status as a cherished object of devotion. Ruwanweli stupa stands as a testament to the enduring spiritual legacy of Sri Lanka and serves as a powerful reminder of the profound teachings and presence of Gautama Buddha. Its historical significance, combined with the sanctity associated with the relics it houses, has solidified its position as an iconic symbol of reverence for Buddhists and a source of inspiration for all who encounter its grandeur. As visitors behold the Ruwanweli dagaba, they are captivated not only by its physical magnificence but also by the rich spiritual heritage it represents. It stands as a timeless beacon of faith, inviting all who approach it to contemplate the wisdom and compassion of Gautama Buddha and to find solace and inspiration in the teachings of Buddhism. The location of the Ruwanweliseya Stupa is in the Sacred City (අනුරාධපුර පූජා භූමිය) of Anuradhapura. Anuradhapura, including Ruwanweliseya, is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its historical and cultural significance. It is also recognized as an outstanding example of ancient urban planning and religious architecture.
Priyanga PathiranaPriyanga Pathirana
00
I recently had the profound privilege of visiting Ruwanwelisaya, an ancient and awe-inspiring stupa located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. As a traveler with a keen interest in history and spirituality, the experience was nothing short of extraordinary. Ruwanwelisaya, also known as the Great Stupa, is an architectural marvel that stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. Its majestic presence and serene surroundings create an ambiance that immediately transports visitors to a different era, connecting them with the nation's glorious past. Upon approaching the stupa, one cannot help but be captivated by its sheer size and intricacy. The meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail are evident in every facet of its design. The stupa's whitewashed exterior glistens in the sun, exuding an aura of purity and spirituality. Walking around the stupa, I marveled at the meticulously restored ancient stone carvings and statues that adorned its base. These intricate depictions of religious and historical figures provide a fascinating glimpse into the beliefs and way of life of the people who lived during that era. As I circled the stupa with the devout pilgrims and curious tourists, a sense of peace and reverence enveloped me. Ruwanwelisaya is not merely a tourist attraction; it is a living spiritual center where people from all walks of life come to pay their respects and seek solace. The main shrine room, located beneath the stupa, is a treasure trove of religious artifacts and offerings. The smell of incense and the soft glow of oil lamps create an atmosphere conducive to meditation and introspection. The resident monks, with their welcoming smiles, offer insights into the stupa's history and significance, enriching the experience even further. One cannot help but feel a profound connection with the past while at Ruwanwelisaya. The stupa has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, and its survival through the ages is a testament to the enduring faith and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the evening puja (ceremony) commenced, filling the air with the melodious sound of Buddhist chants. It was a deeply moving experience, and I felt a sense of unity with the other visitors, regardless of our diverse backgrounds. In conclusion, a visit to Ruwanwelisaya is a must for anyone seeking to delve into the spiritual and historical depths of Sri Lanka. It is a site of immense cultural significance that leaves a lasting impression on the hearts and minds of all who visit. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply a curious traveler, Ruwanwelisaya promises an unforgettable journey through time and the human spirit.
Thilina Madusanka WeerasingheThilina Madusanka Weerasinghe
00
 Ruwanweliseya Ruwanweliseya Stupa (Ruwanveli Seya Stupa), the foremost of the supremely glorious ancient living monuments of Sinhalese Buddhist Heritage at the city of Anuradhapura (a UNESCO World Heritage Site-Culture) was built by King Dutugamunu (161-137 BC), the Hero of the Nation, who hailed from Ruhuna, which was destined to give birth to most of the glorious heroes of the island nation of Sri Lanka from the ancient era to the modern day. Ruwanweliseya Stupa (Ruwanveli Seya Stupa) also called Maha Stupa (Sinhala: the great dagoba) or Ratnapali Stupa or Swarnamali stupa has been the most adored, most venerated among the great ancient stupas (dagobas) of Sri Lanka. Anuradhapura is replete with the ancient cultural monuments located in between the River Malwatu Oya and two great ancient man-made irrigation reservoirs called Tissa Wewa and Abhaya Wewa (Basawakkulama Wewa). These two ancient irrigation reservoirs, together with ancient Nuwara Wewa reservoir on the eastern flank of the River Malwatu Oya, extend the lifeline to the agricultural district of Anuradhapura. The three main ancient stupas clustered south of the ruined Southern wall of Anuradhapura, namely Ruwanweliseya Stupa, Mirisavatiya Dagaba and Jetavana Stupa perfectly align with the celestial layout of Rigel, Mintaka and Bellatrix, three of the seven stars of the Orion constellation, which was associated with Osiris, the sun-god of rebirth and afterlife, by the ancient Egyptians (3150 BC-conventional Egyptian chronology). And Anuradapura of Sri Lanka (SL Low gravity anomaly: -104m geoid), though far south of Bodh Gaya of Northern India, is only three and a half degrees west of it. Bodh Gaya, the location where Gauthama Buddha attained Supreme enlightenment, is considered Patavi Nahbi (Sanskrit: naval of the Earth), according to the Buddhist cosmology. Bodh Gaya’s antipode, on the other side of the world, that can be connected by an axis running through the very centre of the Earth, is the Temple of the Sun (referred to as the naval of the universe) of the Mayans (3114 BC Mesoamerican Long Count calendar) at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cuzco (Quechua, the Inca language: the navel of the universe) nearby Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Mayans. Added to the inexplicable cosmological and geographical mysteries associated with Ruwanweliseya Stupa (Ruwanveli Seya Stupa), is the fact that locations for the construction of Ruwanweliseya and Mirisavatiya were determined by a couple of extraordinary circumstances. Still more astonishing is the sudden yet timely surfacing of precious metals and jewels at the beginning of the construction of Ruwanweliseya Stupa.
Bera බෙරBera බෙර
00
Nearby Attractions Of Ruwanweli Maha Seya
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
Thuparama vihara
Muthiyangana Raja Maha Vihara
Mirisawetiya
Mirisavetiya vihara
Jethawanaramaya
Jetavanarama Museum
Archaeological Museum, Anuradhapura
Maha Viharaya, Anuradhapura
Lovamahapaya | ලෝවාමහාපාය
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
4.9
(5.3K)Click for details
Thuparama vihara
4.8
(4.2K)Click for details
Muthiyangana Raja Maha Vihara
4.8
(1.4K)Click for details
Mirisawetiya
4.8
(872)Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Ruwanweli Maha Seya
Hela Bojun Hala ( හෙළ බොජුන් හල )
Hela Bojun Hala ( හෙළ බොජුන් හල )
4.4
(40)Click for details
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
Ruwanweliseya Temple, Abhayawewa Rd, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
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Phone
+94 252 222 120
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Reviews
Overview
4.9
(6.8K reviews)
Ratings & Description
cultural
family friendly
attractions: Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, Thuparama vihara, Muthiyangana Raja Maha Vihara, Mirisawetiya, Mirisavetiya vihara, Jethawanaramaya, Jetavanarama Museum, Archaeological Museum, Anuradhapura, Maha Viharaya, Anuradhapura, Lovamahapaya | ලෝවාමහාපාය, restaurants: Hela Bojun Hala ( හෙළ බොජුන් හල )
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