Thupramaya: Stupa

Thuparamaya: the oldest stupa in Sri Lanka
Have you ever wondered which is the oldest stupa in Sri Lanka?

Built during the reign of King Devamnampiyatissa, Thuparamaya is the first stupa to be erected in 250 BC. C.-210 a. In the guard of Mahinda, who was an envoy sent to Sri Lanka by the Indian king Ashoka. It was Mahinda and Sangamiththa, son and daughter of King Ashoka, who brought Buddhism to Sri Lanka. Mahinda brought the Buddha’s clavicle to be enshrined in the stupa, which is still here. It is remarkable that it was not only a stupa, but also an Aramic Complex. However, the Aramic Complex that covered nearly 3½ acres around the Stupa is now in ruins. One of the crudest attractions on the Stupa is the Stupa-house, known as the Vedagate. The two pillar circles around the Stupa supported the roof, which was another dome, as indicated by the decreasing height of the pillar circles, from the walkway around. It is a relic of beautifully done woodwork.

A story of gold and bricks.
The Vedatgate had an exterior made of gold and silver until the Pandyans looted it in the 7th century. Two and a half centuries later, when Mahinda IV again covered the Vedagate in gold and silver somewhere around AD 956-972, it was again plundered by the Colas.

Then after a long period of 900 years, in 1862, it was renovated again in modern times, which transformed the ancient features of the Stupa.

In view of the construction
This oldest stupa is located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It is built in the shape of a bell. The dome is 3.45 meters high with a diameter of 18 meters at the base, paved with granite. The stupa was demolished and rebuilt several times in the past. The Stupa in Sri Lanka is known as Dagoba.

Things to do
Besides the Thuparamaya Dogba, there are several beautiful places around that you must visit.

Sangamiththa Stupa:
It is a very small stupa located just 130 meters east of the Thuparamaya stupa. It is named after the daughter of the Indian king Ashoka, who came to Sri Lnaka around 249 BC. C.

Padalanchana Chethiya:
Walking 50 meters south of Thuparamaya Stupa there are other small Stupa known as Pedalanchana Chethiya, which was built by King Lagnatissa. Buddha is believed to have placed himself in the middle before soaring into the air to return to India just after his third visit to Sri Lanka.

The ruins of the old Hospital:
In the facilities to the east south of the Stupa, are the ruins of an old hospital where patients were treated and medicated during the Anuradhapura era. You will find the medical stones around the ruins that were used to heal the sick and afflicted. He used to cure ailments, that is, snake bites through baths that were enriched with medical concoctions.

Royal Palace of King Vijayabahu:
After fighting with Colas of India, King Vijayabahu built this temporary palace in celebrations. Currently, the building measures 39 * 66m. There are two Guardstones that appear at the entrance of the palace, known as Sankhini and Padmanidhi.

How to get to Thuparamaya?
Thuparamaya is well connected to the entire continent. You can get there by bus, train and plane.

By Air: The closest airport to Thuparamaya is Colombo Airport, which is 183 km away. You can take a bus, a taxi or a taxi from the airport directly to Thuparamaya.

By Train: There are two train stations in Anuradhapura city. Anuradhapura main station is close to the old bus city and the other is New Town station, which is located in the southern part of the city. You can take a taxi from there to the Stupa or take a walk and get to the Stupa while exploring the city.

By Bus: Like the train stations in the city, there are two bus stations. The old bus station takes you to the southern part of the city, while the new bus station takes you north and east.

Where to sleep? (For later)

Where to eat?

Rangiri Restaurant:
If you want to stimulate your taste buds with some really tasty food, this is the place for you. The rice and curry at this place is a really delicious combination.

Rasa Gedara:
The interior of this place is beautiful. One could come for dinner here after a long day. The service is good. Come here to enjoy authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.

Seedevi family restaurant:
Considered the cleanest restaurant by travelers, Seedevi Restaurant is known for its excellent service. Although the options are very limited here when it comes to food, the buffet at this place is famous for its variety and taste.

Pizza Hut:
In case you want to visit an international food chain, Pizza Hut is at your disposal.

Harvest Restaurant and Cafe:
With modern interiors, Harvest Café and Restaurant is known for its delicious pizzas, sandwiches, and biryani for biryani lovers.

Conclusion:
With a rich fascinating history and the beautiful monuments around the temple, Thuparamaya is a must see if you want to learn and understand Buddhism. Make sure to visit this place the next time you are in Sri Lanka. It will be a serene experience.

PS: A tip from an advisor – make sure you were wearing socks when you entered the premises, the floor gets very hot on summer days.

Meta description:
For a perfect day steeped in Buddhist spiritualism, Thuparamaya is in all its splendor and majestic atmosphere. With places like the Sangamiththa Stupa, Padalanchana Chethiya, and the Royal Palace of King Vijayabahu all around, this place makes for a stunning and beautiful symbol of Sri Lanka’s rich past. The place is easily accessible from the main transportation facilities and the surrounding area is equipped with all modern comforts.