Historical background
Built by King Devanampiyatissa in the 3rd century BCE, Thuparamaya is the first Buddhist stupa erected in Sri Lanka after the arrival of Arahant Mahinda. It enshrines the right collarbone relic of the Buddha gifted by Emperor Ashoka.
Religious significance
The earliest dagaba on the island and one of the Atamasthana — the eight most sacred Buddhist sites of Anuradhapura.
Visitor experience
Slender granite vatadage pillars surround the bell-shaped white dome — a quiet, contemplative site best visited at dawn or under the late-afternoon golden light.
Things to do
- ✦Circumambulate the dagaba in white attire
- ✦Photograph the surviving vatadage pillars
- ✦Combine with Sri Maha Bodhi and Ruwanwelisaya
