Ruwanwelisaya is Sri Lanka's tallest ancient stupa at 338 feet, built by a unifying warrior-king to enshrine the largest known collection of the Buddha's relics anywhere in the world.

Why visit Ruwanwelisaya

• Largest Collection of Relics: This stupa enshrines the largest known collection of Buddha's relics. It holds two quarts of the Buddha’s relics.
• Symbol of National Unity: The stupa was built by King Dutugemunu after he unified the country. It symbolizes a heroic king and a unified Sri Lanka.
• One of the World's Tallest: It is one of the world's tallest ancient monuments. The stupa is 338 feet in height.
• Connection to Prophecy: Ancient texts say a prophecy foretold the enshrinement of the Buddha's relics here. The relics were guarded by Nagas before being brought to Sri Lanka.
• Massive Restoration Effort: The stupa was in ruins for over 800 years. A major restoration project, funded by donations, began in the 19th century.