Seevali De A.
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Serene and Tranquil
On 23rd November 2025, our group of thirteen embarked on a memorable journey with Flamingo Lanka tours to visit this historically significant temple, as part of our tour to the UNESCO world heritage city, Anuradhapura. Constructed by King Devanampiyathissa (247-207 BC), Thuparamaya is recognised as the very first stupa constructed in Sri Lanka following the introduction of Buddhism to the island. Thuparamaya stands as a testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage.
The original stupa renovated in 1862, now features a striking bell-shaped dome. It rises to a height of 63 feet, with a base diameter of 59 feet. Surrounding the stupa are four concentric circles of stone pillars, believed to have once supported a conical wooden roof that sheltered the original stupa. The tops of these pillars are adorned with intricately carved lotus buds, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of ancient artisans. At the entrance are beautifully carved guard stones, classic examples of ancient Sri Lankan art.
As is customary at all sacred Buddhist sites, we dressed modestly and removed our footwear before ascending the platform. Visiting around 11 am, we found the granite floor quite warm underfoot, making us realize that an early morning or evening visit would have been more comfortable.
Following tradition, we walked clockwise around the stupa. The Buddhists among us, joined the crowds in offering flowers and chanting pirith (Buddhist stanzas), paying homage to the Buddha and his teachings. The serene and tranquil atmosphere of the temple left a lasting impression on all of us.
Thuparamaya is not only a site of great historical importance but also a place where visitors can experience the peaceful spirituality that defines Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage. I highly recommend visiting during the cooler hours of the day to fully appreciate the beauty and serenity of this ancient monument.
