Question 1

What is the difference between a stupa, dagaba, and cetiya?

Accepted Answer

All three terms refer to the same type of hemispherical Buddhist monument. 'Stupa' is the Sanskrit form used internationally; 'dagaba' is the Sinhala contraction of 'Dhatu Garbha' meaning 'relic womb'; and 'cetiya' (or 'chaitya') is the Pali term, sometimes used specifically for monuments not containing a relic. In everyday Sri Lankan usage, dagaba and stupa are interchangeable.

Question 2

Which is the tallest stupa in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The Jetavanaramaya in Anuradhapura, built by King Mahasena in the 3rd century CE, is believed to have reached around 120 metres at its original height, making it one of the tallest brick structures of the ancient world. Today the restored monument stands somewhat lower, as the upper sections were lost to time, but it remains the most voluminous dagaba in the country.

Question 3

Can tourists enter the interior of Sri Lankan stupas?

Accepted Answer

Solid stupas — which is the vast majority — have no interior accessible to the public. The relic chamber is sealed within the core of the structure and has not been opened in modern times except for limited archaeological investigation. Visitors experience the stupa from its outer terraces, walking clockwise around the base. Some sites have adjacent image houses and relic rooms that are open to worshippers.

Question 4

What relics are enshrined in Sri Lanka's stupas?

Accepted Answer

Different chronicles attribute different relics to each monument. Thuparamaya is said to hold the Buddha's collarbone relic, Ruwanwelisaya a large collection of bodily relics, and Mahiyangana Stupa a hair and collarbone relic from an early visit. Some stupas also enshrine relics of eminent monks or objects associated with the Buddha, such as the alms bowl or begging robe.

Question 5

How old are the stupas at Anuradhapura?

Accepted Answer

The oldest securely dated stupa in Anuradhapura, Thuparamaya, was built around 247 BCE. Most of the great monumental dagabas were raised between the 2nd century BCE and the 4th century CE, meaning they are between roughly 1,600 and 2,300 years old. The sacred city of Anuradhapura is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Question 6

What should I wear when visiting a stupa in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Both men and women should wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. White clothing is common among local pilgrims, particularly on poya (full-moon) days, but is not required of tourists. Footwear must be removed before stepping onto the inner terrace of any stupa precinct, so slip-on shoes are practical for a day of temple visits.

Question 7

Is there a stupa in Polonnaruwa worth visiting?

Accepted Answer

Yes — the Kiri Vehera in Polonnaruwa is particularly well preserved and retains much of its original white lime plaster, giving a clear impression of how all the great dagabas once appeared. The Rankot Vihara, also in Polonnaruwa, is the largest stupa in the medieval capital. Both are included in the Polonnaruwa archaeological site ticket.

Question 8

What is the best time of year to visit Sri Lanka's ancient stupas?

Accepted Answer

The dry season from around May to September is best for visiting the Cultural Triangle in the north-central province, when Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa receive little rain. The period around Vesak (May full moon) draws large crowds of pilgrims and the monuments are lit with oil lamps and lanterns, creating an atmospheric visit if you don't mind the busy surroundings.

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