Thuparamaya
Tags : Historical Site
Timings : 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee : Free
Thuparama, Anuradhapura Overview
Thuparamaya is the first stupa built in Sri Lanka after Buddhism arrived, raised by King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd century BCE, and it is said to enshrine the Buddha's right collarbone. It is far smaller than the great dagobas nearby, and the ring of slender stone pillars around it, which once carried a roof, is what most people come to photograph.
The shape of the stupa was initially of a paddy rice shape which was later restored to a conventional bell shape in the year 1862. There were several changes to Thuparama, but some of the most significant changes were first in the 7th Century BCE when the stupa had gold and silver castings, further changes also took place in the 10th Century BCE, to the final renovations in 1862 which completely changed the structure of the stupa.
Thuparamaya is an archaeological site by the government of Sri Lanka, and the government offers it special care and protection. The stupa is today one of the most revered sites for the Buddhists in and outside Sri Lanka.
Read More on Thuparama
Entrance fees and timings at Thuparamaya
Entrance Fees: Free of cost
Approximate amount to time to spend: 30 to 45 minutes
History of Thuparamaya
The name Thuparamaya comes from "stupa" and "aramaya" which is a residential complex for monks. An ancient inscription states that a tank was near Thuparama, and the ancient harvest from the paddy fields around the reservoir was given to the Bhikkhus (an ordained male monk in Buddhism).
Things To Do at Thuparamaya stupa
Towards the left of Thuparamaya, you will find the preserved remains of the Image House, which was built by King Devanampiyatissa which was earlier decided to be the first house of the Tooth Relic of Buddha.
On the opposite side of the stupa is a granite doorway and two smaller guard stones, along with that is a smaller stupa which is known as the Padalanchana Stupa.
On the North West side of the stupa, you will find one of the most ancient buildings that are the Basawakkulama tank which was built by King Pandukabhaya in the 4th century BCE.
