Dakkhina Stupa
A 2nd-century BC brick stupa in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, believed to mark King Dutugamunu's cremation site and historically known as King Ellalan's to...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Dakkhina Stupa
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 2nd-century BC brick stupa in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, believed to mark King Dutugamunu's cremation site and historically known as King Ellalan's tomb.
"It seems like real ancient ruins, one can tell it used to be much larger."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast ancient city. :athletic_shoe:
Allocate Plenty of Time
Anuradhapura is a huge UNESCO site; don't rush your visit to Dakkhina Stupa and surrounding ruins. :clock1:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.3 · 70 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dakkhina Stupa's Ancient Bricks
A significant 2nd-century BC brick stupa, believed to mark King Dutugamunu's cremation site. Its ancient structure evokes a powerful sense of history.
The Grounding Feel
Visitors often describe a profound sense of peace and connection to the past when visiting this ancient site. It's a place for quiet contemplation.
Carved Pillars and Bodhi Tree
Discover a remarkably carved pillar and a large, ancient Bodhi tree on the grounds, adding to the site's spiritual and natural beauty.
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Timing Your Visit to Dakkhina Stupa
Exploring the Ancient City
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast ancient city. :athletic_shoe:
Allocate Plenty of Time
Anuradhapura is a huge UNESCO site; don't rush your visit to Dakkhina Stupa and surrounding ruins. :clock1:
Visit During Golden Hour
Sunset offers beautiful lighting for photos of the stupa and ancient ruins. :camerawithflash:
Respect the Sacred Site
Remember this is a significant religious and historical location. Dress modestly and be mindful of your behavior. 🙏
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast ancient city. :athletic_shoe:
Allocate Plenty of Time
Anuradhapura is a huge UNESCO site; don't rush your visit to Dakkhina Stupa and surrounding ruins. :clock1:
Visit During Golden Hour
Sunset offers beautiful lighting for photos of the stupa and ancient ruins. :camerawithflash:
Respect the Sacred Site
Remember this is a significant religious and historical location. Dress modestly and be mindful of your behavior. 🙏
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Dakkhina Stupa to be a significant historical site within the vast Anuradhapura ancient city, offering a grounding and contemplative experience. While its exact historical identity is debated, its ancient brick structure and connection to legendary kings are compelling. Some find the ruins to be less visually dramatic than other stupas in the complex.
"A UNESCO site at Anuradhapura, it was the political and religious capital that flourished for 1,300 years, was abandoned after an invasion in 993. I do not know how you loose a site like this but it was apparently hidden away in dense jungle for many years, the splendid site, with its palaces, monasteries and monuments, is now accessible once again. Leave lots of time to explore and admire."
Ross Daniels
"I really liked this spot, it seems like real ancient ruins , one can tell it used to be much larger. Lots of birds hopping all over and pla to threatening to grow out through the cracks.
Very grounding feel.
Has one very nice carved pillar.
And one nice large Bodi tree."
Leaf LaRay
"Dakkhina Stupa is a 2nd-century BC large brick Stupa in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
The Stupa was identified to have been built to mark the site of cremation of King Dutugamunu (In 161 BC – 137 BC). The structure was identified in 1946 as Dakkhina Stupa by the eminent archaeologist Mr. Senarath Paranavithana.
This structure was for centuries locally known as the tomb stone of king Ellalan, known as Elara Sohona, which was worshipped by Tamils and Sinhalese.
should visit. It is located on the way to Jaya Sri maha bodhi at mahamewuna uyana."
Hansani Eranga
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dakkhina Stupa is located within the ancient city of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can reach Anuradhapura by bus or train from major cities like Colombo. Once in Anuradhapura, you can hire a tuk-tuk or a taxi to take you to the ancient city and specifically to Dakkhina Stupa. Many visitors explore the ancient city on foot or by bicycle.
Dakkhina Stupa is situated on the way to the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi within the Mahamewuna Uyana. While it's part of a larger complex, signage within the ancient city should help guide you. It's often mentioned in conjunction with other key sites, making it discoverable.
Many travelers find that renting a bicycle or hiring a tuk-tuk for the day is the most convenient way to explore the vast ancient city of Anuradhapura, including Dakkhina Stupa. Walking is also an option for shorter distances.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, as Dakkhina Stupa is part of the Anuradhapura ancient city, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, an entrance ticket is required. It's advisable to purchase your ticket at the main entrance to the archaeological park.
The ancient city of Anuradhapura, including Dakkhina Stupa, is generally open from early morning until late evening. However, it's best to check the official timings upon arrival or with your accommodation to ensure you can visit during daylight hours for the best experience.
As Dakkhina Stupa is a significant historical and religious site, it's important to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees. It's a sign of respect for the local culture and religious practices.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hour' around sunrise and sunset provides the most beautiful lighting for photographs of Dakkhina Stupa and the surrounding ancient ruins. Early mornings also offer fewer crowds, allowing for unobstructed shots.
Generally, photography is allowed at Dakkhina Stupa and within the ancient city. However, always be respectful, especially in areas with active religious practices. Avoid using flash photography inside any enclosed structures if present.
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
Dakkhina Stupa is a large brick stupa dating back to the 2nd century BC. It's believed to have been built to mark the cremation site of King Dutugamunu. For centuries, it was locally known as the tombstone of King Ellalan (Elara Sohona).
While traditionally believed to be King Ellalan's tomb, archaeological research in the mid-19th century suggested it might not be. It was later identified as the stupa of the ancient Dakini Vihara. This reclassification is considered controversial by some.
The name 'Dakkhina' is believed to relate to the Dakini Vihara, an ancient monastery. The stupa's association with cremation sites also aligns with the concept of 'dakkhina' which can refer to offerings or funeral rites.
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