Abayagiri Stupa, located in the sacred city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, is a notable ancient monument with great historical value. Once one of the tallest structures in the ancient world, this impressive stupa attracts visitors from around the world who come to see its grandeur and spiritual significance. It is part of the Abhayagiri Monastery complex, a key center for Theravada and later Mahayana Buddhism, highlighting Sri Lanka’s rich religious and cultural history.
Built more than two thousand years ago during the reign of King Valagamba in the 1st century BCE, Abayagiri Stupa was constructed to mark the king’s victory and the recovery of his throne. It soon became an important place for Buddhist study and meditation, drawing monks from across Asia and establishing itself as one of the largest and most influential monastic sites of its time.
Today, Abayagiri Stupa stands about 75 meters (246 feet) tall, though it was originally even taller, making it one of the tallest structures of its time. Its design symbolizes both the Buddha’s enlightenment and the universe. The stupa’s massive dome, made from millions of bricks, is carefully shaped to enhance its visual and symbolic impact.
© Naduni Ranasinghe | unsplash.com/@naduni3000
The ruins around the stupa, including meditation halls, dining areas, and monks’ quarters, offer a glimpse into the daily life of ancient Buddhist monks. Walking through these ruins helps visitors imagine the serene environment where monks practiced meditation and study.
Abayagiri Stupa is highly important to Buddhists around the world. It is not just a place of worship but also a symbol of Buddhism’s spread across Asia. The stupa was crucial in the development of Mahayana Buddhism, and its influence extended well beyond Sri Lanka. Pilgrims often walk around the stupa in a clockwise direction while reciting prayers, adding to the site’s spiritual atmosphere.
Visitors planning a trip to Abayagiri Stupa should know that it is part of the larger Abhayagiri Monastery complex. Exploring the whole area will give a better understanding of the site’s historical and cultural significance.
Visitors should dress modestly, with white clothing recommended to respect the traditional dress code for Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka.
Route from Colombo
Take bus route No. 4 (Colombo – Anuradhapura) or bus route No. 87 (Colombo – Vavuniya) from the Bastian Mawatha Bus Stand in Pettah, Colombo, and get off at the Market Junction (Market Handiya) bus stop in Anuradhapura. From the Market Junction bus stop, walk a few meters ahead and turn left. This road leads directly to the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, about 1 km away.
Market Bus Stop, Anuradapura.
From there, the eight sacred sites known as the Atamasthana—Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya, Ruwanwelisaya, Thuparamaya, Lovamahapaya, Abhayagiri Dagaba, Jetavanarama, Mirisaveti Stupa, and Lankarama—are within walking distance, or you can take a tuk-tuk. It’s recommended to start your journey by visiting the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi and Ruwanwelisaya. The journey from Colombo to Anuradhapura takes about 4.5 to 5 hours.
