
Rankoth Vehera
Rankoth Vehera, located in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, is a massive stupa built in the 12th century by King Nissankamalla. Inspired by Anuradhapura’s Ruwanwelisaya, it stands 55 meters tall and remains one of the largest stupas in Sri Lanka.
Rankoth Vehera, meaning “Golden Pinnacle Stupa”, is one of the most significant Buddhist stupas in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. Built during the reign of King Nissankamalla (1187–1196 AD), this 55-meter-high (180 feet) stupa closely follows the architectural style of Anuradhapura’s Ruwanwelisaya, reflecting the continued influence of earlier Sri Lankan Buddhist architecture. The stupa is constructed with brick and stone, featuring a large circular base with a pinnacle once gilded in gold. The surrounding four image houses (Vahalkadas), which contain Buddha statues and stone inscriptions by King Nissankamalla, highlight its historical importance. The site was a major center of Buddhist worship and rituals, attracting monks and devotees from across the region. Today, Rankoth Vehera remains an iconic landmark in Polonnaruwa, drawing visitors who admire its grandeur, historical value, and spiritual significance. It is the largest stupa in Polonnaruwa and the fourth largest in Sri Lanka, making it a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.
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