Thuparamaya Stupa in Anuradhapura: A Sacred Place of Buddhism

In the old city of Anuradhapura, there’s a special place called Thuparamaya Stupa. It’s not just any place; it’s the oldest stupa in Sri Lanka and holds a lot of meaning for people who follow Buddhism. Let’s explore what makes Thuparamaya special and why people visit.

A Marvel of Old Architecture:

Built a very long time ago, around the 3rd century BCE, Thuparamaya is an ancient stupa. A stupa is like a big, round structure, and Thuparamaya is one of the earliest ones in Sri Lanka. The builders made it with a dome shape, a square chamber on top, and a pointy part that represents Buddha’s enlightenment.

Why Thuparamaya Is Important:

Thuparamaya is not just a building; it’s a place of deep respect for Buddhists. Inside, there’s a special bone relic from Buddha. According to stories, a person named Arahat Mahinda brought this relic to Sri Lanka. So, Thuparamaya is like a treasure house for a very important part of Buddhism.

Reasons to Visit Thuparamaya:

1. History Lesson: Thuparamaya is like a living history book. When you visit, you step back in time to when Buddhism first started to spread in Sri Lanka.
2. Cool Architecture: If you like looking at old buildings, Thuparamaya is fascinating. The stupa’s shape and the carvings on it show the skill of the people who built it so long ago.
3. Spiritual Vibes: Many people come to Thuparamaya to pray, meditate, or just feel a sense of peace. The quiet surroundings and the feeling of spirituality make it a special place for visitors.

Special Things at Thuparamaya:

1. Stone Fence: Around Thuparamaya, there’s a special stone fence called a vatadage. It has beautiful carvings that add to the charm of the place.
2. Entrance Design: The entrance has a pretty stone design called a moonstone. It’s like a welcome mat with carvings that tell stories from a long time ago.

Taking Care of Thuparamaya:

People are working to keep Thuparamaya in good shape. They want to make sure it stays strong for a very long time, so everyone can keep enjoying its history and spirituality.

Other Places Nearby:

1. Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi: Not far away is a sacred tree called Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. It’s believed to be connected to the tree where Buddha found enlightenment.
2. Ruwanwelisaya: Another big stupa close by is Ruwanwelisaya. It’s a great place to visit if you’re interested in the history of Anuradhapura.

In Conclusion:

Thuparamaya Stupa isn’t just an old building; it’s a time capsule that lets us touch the past. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just want a peaceful place to visit, Thuparamaya welcomes you to explore its ancient beauty and connect with the roots of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

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(Cover Image Credit: @hamza_mad_h from Instagram)