Mirisawetiya Stupa
මිරිසවැටිය
A large white stupa built by King Dutugemunu, on the eastern shore of Tissa Wewa, with finely carved remains of niches on its base. It sees few visitors.
The Mirisawetiya Stupa was the first stupa built by King Dutugemunu after he defeated the Tamil king Elara. Legend says the king vowed to build it after accidentally eating chili curry (mirisawetiya means “chili”) that had not been offered to the monks. After modern restoration, the stupa has a white bell-shaped form. The vahalkadas (niche façades) on all four sides of its base preserve fine Anuradhapura-period reliefs of elephants, lions and dwarves, making them among the best stone carvings in the ancient city. It sees few visitors and is quiet. It is near Tissa Wewa and the entrance to the ancient city, so it can be visited at the start or end of a cycling route. Shoes must be removed.
Opening hours
About 06:00–20:00
Nearby sights
- Ranmasu Uyana (Royal Pleasure Gardens)
- Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
- Sandahiru Seya
- Ruwanwelisaya
- Lovamahapaya (Brazen Palace)
- Isurumuniya
- Archaeological Museum Anuradhapura
- Tissa Wewa