The Thuparama Vihara, located within the sacred city of Anuradhapura, is the oldest stupa in Sri Lanka and was constructed by King Devanampiyatissa in the third century BC. Throughout its history, the structure has seen the damage and even total destruction, and though originally built in the paddy heap shape, its present form is in the bell shape. Standing at a height of 59 feet, it is believed to enshrine the collarbone of the Buddha. The ruins of what would have been a roof over its platform are evident in the stone pillars that surround the stupa.

Written by Jonathan Roelofsz for Travel Lanka Compass