Thuparamaya

Thuparamaya holds the profound distinction of being the very first Buddhist stupa constructed in Sri Lanka. Commissioned in the 3rd century BCE by King Devanampiya Tissa, it was built shortly after the venerable Arahat Mahinda brought Theravada Buddhism to the island. Situated within the sacred Mahamevnawa Park of Anuradhapura, it remains one of the most historically significant and deeply venerated religious monuments in the country, marking the formal establishment of the island's Buddhist heritage.

• The Sacred Relic: According to the ancient chronicles, the stupa was constructed specifically to enshrine the right collarbone relic of the Lord Buddha, which was brought to Sri Lanka from India. The name "Thuparamaya" itself is a combination of "stupa" (relic shrine) and "aramaya" (monastic residential complex), highlighting its dual purpose as a center of worship and monastic life.

• The Vatadage Pillars: The most visually striking feature of Thuparamaya is the concentric circles of slender, finely carved stone pillars surrounding the main dagoba. These elegant columns originally supported a vatadage—a magnificent, circular wooden roof that once sheltered the stupa and protected the sacred relics from the elements. While the wooden structure has long since perished, the surviving pillar stumps provide a fascinating glimpse into the architectural sophistication of ancient Sinhalese builders. The stupa itself was originally bell-shaped but took on its current form after extensive restorations in 1842.

• Navigation and Tips: Located relatively close to the Ruwanweliseya, Thuparamaya is easily accessible by bicycle or tuk-tuk along the flat, shaded pathways of the ancient city. The atmosphere here is often quieter and more contemplative than at the larger monuments. As with all sacred sites in Anuradhapura, strict dress codes apply: shoulders and knees must be fully covered, and hats and shoes must be removed before entering the sandy courtyard. Wearing thick, dark socks is highly recommended to protect your feet from the hot ground.