10 Things to Do in Ruwanwelisaya Stupa (Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba) Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Ruwanwelisaya Stupa (Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba) is one of the most important monuments in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Built in the 2nd century BC, it is one of the most venerated sites in the country and is a must-visit for any traveler to the area. Here are 10 things to do when visiting Ruwanwelisaya Stupa.
1. Explore the History: Ruwanwelisaya Stupa is an ancient monument that was built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BC. It is one of the most important sites in Sri Lanka and is a symbol of the ancient Sinhalese civilization. The monument is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of Sri Lanka.
2. Admire the Architecture: The Stupa is a magnificent structure and is a great example of ancient Sinhalese architecture. The monument is made of brick and mortar and is decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures. The Stupa is also surrounded by a large number of smaller monuments, which are also worth exploring.
3. Visit the Relic Chamber: The Relic Chamber is located at the center of the Stupa and is a must-visit. It houses a number of important relics, including a tooth of the Buddha and a strand of his hair.
4. Climb the Stairs: The Stupa is surrounded by a large number of stairs that lead to the top of the monument. Climbing the stairs is a great way to get a good view of the surrounding area and to get a better understanding of the monument.
5. Explore the Surrounding Monuments: The Stupa is surrounded by a number of other monuments, including the Abhayagiri Dagoba and the Jetavanarama Dagoba. These monuments are also worth exploring and provide an insight into the history of the area.
6. Visit the Museum: The museum located near the Stupa is a great place to learn more about the history of the area and the Stupa itself. The museum houses a number of artifacts and provides a great insight into the history of the area.
7. Take a Boat Ride: Taking a boat ride around the Stupa is a great way to get a good view of the monument and the surrounding area. The boat ride is also a great way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the area.
8. Visit the Botanical Garden: The Botanical Garden located near the Stupa is a great place to explore the flora and fauna of the area. The garden is home to a number of rare species of plants and animals and is a great place to spend an afternoon.
9. Visit the Local Markets: The local markets near the Stupa are a great place to buy souvenirs and to get a better understanding of the local culture. The markets are also a great place to sample the local cuisine and to get a better understanding of the area.
10. Attend a Festival: The Stupa is the site of a number of important festivals throughout the year. Attending a festival is a great way to get a better understanding of the local culture and to experience the local traditions.
Ruwanwelisaya Stupa is a must-visit for anyone visiting Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. The monument is a great example of ancient Sinhalese architecture and is a symbol of the ancient Sinhalese civilization. There are a number of things to do when visiting the Stupa, including exploring the history, admiring the architecture, visiting the relic chamber, climbing the stairs, exploring the surrounding monuments, visiting the museum, taking a boat ride, visiting the botanical garden, visiting the local markets, and attending a festival.