Sandahiru Seya
සඳහිරු සෑය
A giant modern white stupa built to honor soldiers who died in the civil war, completed in the 2020s and one of the largest modern stupas in the ancient city.
The name Sandahiru Seya means “Stupa of the Sun and Moon.” Construction began in 2010 and was completed around 2023. At about 87 m tall, it is a national stupa built after the end of Sri Lanka's civil war to honor fallen soldiers. It uses the traditional bell-shaped form and its body is pure white. The new stupa is in the south of the ancient city, southeast of the archaeological museum. The surrounding square is spacious, and large religious gatherings are held here on full-moon days. It is not included in the ancient city ticket, and admission is free. You can compare it with the ancient stupas to see the continuity of Buddhist architecture from past to present. Allow about 30 minutes. Shoes must be removed.
Opening hours
Approx. 06:00–21:00
Nearby sights
- Ranmasu Uyana (Royal Pleasure Gardens)
- Isurumuniya
- Archaeological Museum Anuradhapura
- Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
- Lovamahapaya (Brazen Palace)
- Mirisawetiya Stupa
- Vessagiri
- Ruwanwelisaya