Ruwanweli Maha Seya, a historic stupa located in the heart of Anuradhapura, is one of Sri Lanka’s most important and revered sites. Commonly known as the Maha Seya, this stupa is a prime example of Sri Lankan Buddhist heritage. It offers visitors a unique blend of historical importance, architectural beauty, and spiritual depth.
Built by King Dutugemunu in 140 B.C., Ruwanweli Maha Seya holds a special place in the hearts of Buddhists worldwide. It is a sacred monument as it contains a significant collection of the Buddha’s remains. This landmark attracts both pilgrims and tourists, drawn by its striking appearance and deep spiritual significance. The serene environment surrounding the stupa provides a peaceful escape from the busy pace of modern life.
Standing at 103 meters (338 feet) tall with a base circumference of 290 meters (951 feet), Ruwanweli Maha Seya is among the tallest ancient structures in the world. Its pristine white dome against the blue sky creates a stunning visual impression. For those interested in architecture, the stupa offers insight into the advanced construction techniques of ancient Sri Lanka, showcasing the skill and vision of its builders.
© Leo Pixie | pexels.com/@leo-pixie-332282673/
In addition to its architectural splendor, Ruwanweli Maha Seya symbolizes strength and endurance. Despite enduring invasions and natural disasters over the centuries, the stupa has survived. This resilience highlights the lasting influence of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. During the Chola conquest of Anuradhapura, the stupa suffered significant damage but was restored in the 12th century by King Parakramabahu I. This restoration preserved an important cultural site and reinforced the stupa’s significance in Sri Lankan spiritual and cultural life.
Ruwanweli Maha Seya is a key site in Sri Lanka’s Buddhist veneration, listed among the “Solosmasthana” (16 sacred places) and the “Atamasthana” (8 sacred places). Throughout the year, especially during festivals like Poson Poya, the stupa is beautifully decorated with lights, and the air is filled with the scent of flowers and incense. Visitors during these times can experience a vibrant and deeply spiritual atmosphere as devotees gather to perform rituals and offer prayers. This experience is both moving and educational, offering a glimpse into the living traditions of Sri Lankan Buddhism.
A visit to Ruwanweli Maha Seya is a highlight of any trip to Anuradhapura. The site is open daily, and while there is no entrance fee, donations are appreciated to help maintain the site.
© Yashi EL | unsplash.com/@yashiel
To fully enjoy Ruwanweli Maha Seya, consider visiting on non-Poya days and weekdays when it is less crowded. Poya days and weekends can be busy with many visitors coming to offer their prayers. If you plan to visit during the Poson Poya festival in June, which celebrates the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka, be prepared for large crowds, as it is one of the most significant events at the stupa.
© Sanjayatmd | pixabay.com/users/sanjayatmd-20053533/
For a peaceful experience, consider arriving early in the morning before 10 AM or after 4 PM when the midday heat is less intense. The site is open from 6 AM to 10 PM, and the evening hours offer a particularly calm and reflective atmosphere. Sitting quietly at the Ruwanweliseya Maluwa in the evening can be a soothing experience.
When visiting, it is important to dress modestly. Wearing white clothing is recommended, as it follows 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.
