Jetavanaramaya Tourism

Type of destination: Historical Landmark

Ideal visit duration: 1-3 hours

The Jetavanaramaya is an iconic stupa located in the sacred city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Significantly, it was part of the Jetavana Monastery and stands testament to the grandeur of ancient Sinhalese engineering and architecture. Originally standing at 400 feet (122 meters), it was the third-tallest structure in the ancient world, exceeded only by the two Great Pyramids of Giza. Built by King Mahasena (273-301 AD), it is believed that the stupa was completed by his son Sirimeghavanna. Jetavanaramaya was a focal point of worship and pilgrimage for centuries, symbolizing the prosperity of the Sinhalese kingdom and the spread of Buddhism. Composed of approximately 93 million baked bricks, it is an engineering marvel. The dome itself is constructed of bricks, with the core filled with earth and rubble. The design signifies the Buddhist cosmology and the path towards enlightenment. Renovations throughout history have kept its essence intact, and even today, it is venerated by Buddhists worldwide. The site is renowned not only for its religious significance but also for its cultural and historical value, being designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Top 5 Reviews on Jetavanaramaya

petermY2777LY

Wrote on 17th Nov, 2023

Jethawanaramaya Stupa

This stupa was built by King Valagamba. Nothing is known about the ancient form of the stupa, and later it was renovated. The ruins show that there are rows of stone pillars and it is no doubt that th..

petermY2777LY

Wrote on 13th Aug, 2023

Jethawanaramaya Stupa

Jethawanaramaya Stupa is located in the ruins of the Jetavana monastery in the UNESCO world heritage city of Anunadhapura.It was the world's tallest stupa at 397 feet when built by King Mahasena (273-..