Jetavanaramaya

Jetavanaramaya: giant brick stupa in Anuradhapura

King Mahasen built the Jetavanaramaya in the 3rd century AD. It is the largest brick-built stupa in existence. Estimates put the original height at over 122 metres (400 feet), and about 93 million baked bricks were used.

What to see

Red brick: The surface is bare brick, not white plaster like many other stupas. Much of the brickwork is original, and parts were stabilised and restored by the Central Cultural Fund.

Relic: Legend says a piece of a sash or belt used by the Buddha is enshrined inside.

Museum: The nearby Jetavana Museum holds artefacts found during excavations and restoration, including beads and pottery.

Base terraces: Stupas are solid, so you cannot go inside. You can walk around the large base terraces.

Getting there by car

The stupa is 171 km (106 miles) from the airport, a drive of 3.5 - 4 hours. It stands in the central part of the sacred city. The size is easiest to judge from a distance, and with a car you can stop at several viewpoints. You can [rent a car in Sri Lanka](/rent-a-car-sri-lanka) for the day.

Before you go

Hours: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM.

Entry: Included in Sacred City Ticket.

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Traveler FAQ for Jetavanaramaya

Can I go inside the stupa?

No, stupas are solid structures. You can walk around the large base terraces.

Is the brickwork original?

Much of it is, though significant parts were stabilised and restored by the Central Cultural Fund.

How many bricks were used?

Estimates suggest around 93 million bricks.

How high is Jetavanaramaya?

Estimates put the original height at over 122 metres (400 feet).

Is there a museum at Jetavanaramaya?

Yes, the Jetavana Museum holds artefacts found during excavations, including beads and pottery.

Who built Jetavanaramaya?

King Mahasen built it in the 3rd century AD.

Plan your trip to Jetavanaramaya

Reach Jetavanaramaya in your own car or with an English-speaking driver from H.B.S. Rent a Car Sri Lanka.