Abhayagiriya

Abhayagiriya Stupa, located in the sacred city of Anuradhapura, is one of the most significant and awe-inspiring monuments in Sri Lanka’s ancient history. Built in the 1st century BCE by King Valagamba, this massive stupa once stood over 100 meters tall, making it one of the tallest structures of the ancient world. Though time and natural wear have reduced its height, the stupa still dominates the landscape with its majestic presence. Abhayagiriya was more than a religious site; it was a thriving monastic complex and a global center of Buddhist learning. It attracted monks and scholars from various parts of Asia, including China, India, and Southeast Asia. The renowned Chinese monk Faxian, who visited in the 5th century CE, described it as a vibrant and advanced center of Buddhist practice. Today, the stupa and its surrounding ruins—moonstones, guardstones, and ancient carvings—reflect the artistic brilliance and architectural skill of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. Despite centuries of decline, the site retains a powerful spiritual atmosphere and continues to inspire awe among visitors. Walking through its grounds offers a journey back in time, revealing the grandeur and devotion of a once-great era. Abhayagiriya remains a proud symbol of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage and stands as a reminder of the island’s contributions to global spiritual and cultural history.

Very beautiful and relaxing place to be, carrying thousands of years of sacred history of the Ceylon. Beautiful architecture, open, huge and silent place. Best time is the evening time to visit, when the sun is low, cool winds are flowing. You can find a lot of ancient remains of the beautiful civilisation they had there thousands of years before. Very good place to visit.

This is also an iconic site in Anuradhapura, and I can see that the Central Cultural Fund is doing a commendable job. However, I feel that the Buddhist religious administration has a limited understanding of the archaeological and architectural value of ancient monuments. While they carry out constructions, these often do not add meaningful value. Simply creating spaces to offer flowers and other gifts does not necessarily contribute to preservation or appreciation of the site.

Abhayagiri Stupa belongs to the aramic complex of Abhayagiriya Viharaya, which was constructed during the reign of King Vattagamini Abaya (commonly known as King Valagamba) in the 1st century BCE. Today, the main attraction of this aramic complex is the massive Abhayagiri Stupa, which stands at 74.98 meters to the tip of the damaged spire. It is the second-largest stupa on the island today. According to the 5th-century traveller Chinese monk Fa-Hsien’s descriptions, this stupa was 400 feet (122 meters) in height and was decorated with gold and silver and studded with all kinds of jewels. There has also been a 20-foot (6.1-meter) high Buddha statue made out of green jade. This monument carries special importance in ancient Sri Lankan stupas as the top portions of the original stupa (known as the “hatharas kotuwa”) still survive after thousands of years of negligence, giving a glimpse of what it would have looked like a thousand years ago. The British erroneously identified Jethawanaramaya as Abhayagiriya between 1873 AC and 1874 AC (Seneviratna, 1994). Therefore, when older documents are referred to, this fact needs to be kept in mind. Today there is a massive effort by the archeological department to restore this stupa to its original glory without destroying the archeological value. The work has been painstakingly slow due to the lack of funds. As you can see in the pictures, the stupa is still covered by grass and trees growing on it which is more like a mound of earth. The stupa is approximately 1150 feet (350 meters) in circumference, and its original height was 400 feet (122 meters), according to the records made by the Chinese monk Fa-Hsien. This gigantic, solid work of bricks had been plastered with a thick coating of lime mortar. There were still parts of this plaster to be seen over the Dagaba at certain spots when it was discovered. This Dagaba has an extensive square, Salapatala Maluwa, which is 600 feet by 600 feet (183 by 183 meters). This raised ground laid with slabs is enclosed by a half wall on all sides. There has been a rampart around the Weli Maluwa that adjoins the platform, and the width of this compound is 50 feet (15.2 meters). There are four entrances where guard houses have been put up, through which the pilgrims and visitors have to gain admission into the sacred premises. The entrance on the west leads directly to Ruwanweli Dagaba. (Harischandra, 1908).

Abahyagiri Stupa is situated in the northern part of the Anuradhapura sacred city. This was built by King Valagmba around 1 AD. This includes a complex of Buddhist monasteries spread throughout the area. The paintings in the temple show that there were Buddhist monks who came from different parts of Asia to learn in this monastery.

Abhayagiriya is one of the most remarkable ancient sites in Anuradhapura. The stupa is massive and breathtaking, built over 2,000 years ago by King Valagamba. It was once a great Buddhist monastery and learning center, and today it remains a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A must-visit if you love history, culture, or spirituality.

Abhayagiriya is one of the most majestic and historically significant Buddhist stupas in Sri Lanka, located in Anuradhapura. History: Built by King Valagamba (also known as Vattagamani Abhaya) in the 1st century BC, Abhayagiriya was constructed after he regained his throne. The stupa became the center of the Abhayagiri Monastery, which supported a branch of Buddhism that incorporated Mahayana influences. Famous for: - Once one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in the world. - The stupa originally stood at around 115 meters tall, making it second in height only to Jetavanaramaya at the time. - Known for its vast complex with meditation paths, bathing ponds, and libraries. Religious & Cultural Importance: - The monastery housed thousands of monks and was a key learning center. - Played a vital role in spreading Buddhism, not only in Sri Lanka but also to parts of Asia. - Supported different schools of Buddhist thought, making it a hub of philosophical and cultural exchange. Best Time to Visit: - Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. - Visiting during Poson Poya (June) adds spiritual significance. Interesting Facts: - The stupa is now about 75 meters high due to restoration. - Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Anuradhapura. - Nearby structures include moonstones, guard stones, and elegant carvings that showcase ancient Sinhalese art. Abhayagiriya*l is not just a monument; it's a symbol of resilience, knowledge, and the spiritual heritage of ancient Sri Lanka.

One of my favourite Temple. Calm place for meditation and relax your mind. This place has a long history