Ruwanwelisaya Stupa

Ruwanwelisaya, completed around 140 BC by King Dutugemunu, is one of the most sacred Buddhist monuments in Sri Lanka and a defining landmark of ancient Anuradhapura. The dome rises 103 metres and is encircled by a frieze of 338 stone elephants at its base, symbolising the stupa resting on the backs of elephants. The inner relic chamber is believed to contain bone relics of the Buddha, making this a primary pilgrimage destination for Buddhists from across Asia. Restoration work through the 20th century returned the whitewashed dome to near its original height. Visit early morning, before 8am, when pilgrims conduct offerings and the atmosphere is most sincere.