Introduction

The Thuparamaya Stupa, located in the Anuradhapura Sacred City, holds the distinction of being the oldest stupa in Sri Lanka. Built in the 3rd century BCE under the patronage of King Devanampiya Tissa, it enshrines the Buddha’s collarbone relic. Modest in scale compared to Ruwanwelisaya or Jethavanaramaya, Thuparamaya is deeply significant as the first dagoba constructed after Buddhism was officially introduced to Sri Lanka.

History & Background

• Constructed around 250 BCE by King Devanampiya Tissa, shortly after the arrival of Arahat Mahinda Thera, who introduced Buddhism to Sri Lanka.
• Enshrines the right collarbone relic of the Buddha, making it a vital pilgrimage site.
• Originally a small stupa, later rebuilt multiple times due to natural disasters and invasions.
• Surrounded by rows of stone pillars, believed to have once supported a protective roof (vatadage).
• Remains a UNESCO-listed site as part of the Anuradhapura Sacred City.

Why Visit

• Oldest Stupa: First Buddhist monument built in Sri Lanka.
• Sacred Relic Site: Houses a relic of the Buddha.
• Architectural Value: Features a unique bell-shaped design with surrounding stone pillars.
• Spiritual Importance: Still an active site of devotion and ritual.

Top Highlights

• Bell-Shaped Stupa: Classic early Sinhalese design.
• Vatadage Pillars: Stone columns that once supported a circular shrine.
• Sacred Relic: Enshrined collarbone relic of the Buddha.
• Ritual Offerings: Pilgrims bring flowers, lamps, and chant prayers.
• Historic Atmosphere: A serene, less crowded site compared to the larger stupas.

Best Time to Visit

• Season: Year-round; pilgrims gather daily.
• Time of Day: Early morning or evening for rituals and cooler temperatures.
• Festivals: Buddhist Poya days (full moon) draw larger pilgrim crowds.

How to Get There

• Location: Central Anuradhapura Sacred City.
• From Colombo: ~205 km (~5 hours by car).
• By Train: Colombo–Anuradhapura line (~4–5 hours).
• By Bus: Frequent services from Colombo, Kandy, and Dambulla.
• Local Access: Best reached by tuk-tuk or bicycle within the sacred city.

Difficulty / Accessibility

• Difficulty: Very easy — short walk from parking.
• Kids Friendly: Yes — safe and educational for families.
• Elderly Friendly: Suitable, with shaded resting areas.
• Accessibility: Mostly flat terrain, partially wheelchair-friendly.

Travel Tips

• Duration: 30–60 minutes to explore and participate in rituals.
• Dress Code: Modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered). White attire is traditional for pilgrims.
• Shoes: Remove before entering sacred areas; socks can help on hot stones.
• Guides: A local guide can explain the historical and religious significance.
• Nearby Attractions: Sri Maha Bodhi, Ruwanwelisaya, Abhayagiri Monastery.

Conclusion

The Thuparamaya Stupa is the spiritual starting point of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage. As the island’s oldest dagoba and the first to enshrine a relic of the Buddha, it remains a place of profound reverence. For travelers exploring Anuradhapura, Thuparamaya offers a glimpse into the very beginnings of Buddhism on the island.