Built by King Dutugemunu around 140 BCE, this white hemispherical dagoba rises 103 metres and remains an active place of worship. A wall of 344 carved elephants circles the base, trunk to tail, as if holding up the structure. Robed monks and pilgrims circumambulate clockwise at dusk when the dome is lit white against the sky. It is at Anuradhapura's Sacred City (Archaeological Reserve), close to the other main sights. It ranks among Anuradhapura's most visited sights, and for good reason - most itineraries include it on day one. Entry is free and 45 minutes - 1 hour gives you a thorough visit.
What It Is
You cross a wide marble courtyard ringed by stone elephants and climb a short flight of steps to a platform circling the dome's base. Bells sound faintly as pilgrims pass offering trays of frangipani flowers.
Why Visit
It is one of the largest and best-preserved ancient stupas in Sri Lanka, and still functions as a working shrine rather than a museum piece. That puts it near the top of any Anuradhapura visit, and it deserves the spot. Combine it with Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi (Sacred Bodhi Tree) and Jetavanaramaya - they are close enough to walk between and together make the strongest half-day in Anuradhapura. Afternoon tends to work best here.
More on Anuradhapura
The nearest area to base yourself is Sacred City (Archaeological Reserve). See where it ranks among the things to do in Anuradhapura. The Anuradhapura guide covers transport, costs and when to go.
We plan trips to Anuradhapura and the rest of Sri Lanka. Tell us your dates and we will put a route together. Our routes are on the tours page.
