Rankoth Vehera

Rankoth Vehera, Polonnaruwa Overview

This magnificent stupa is situated in Polonnaruwa and is the 4th largest stupa in Sri Lanka. Built by the Nissanka Malla(1187-1196) it is one of the most sought after tourist attractions, i.e. 'dagobas' of the country. Rich in vibrant history and scenic beauty, this place must be on your to-visit list if you come to Sri Lanka.The stupa of Rankoth Vehera is in the centre of a large square terrace. There are four entrances to the yard with four cardinal points.

Located in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa in Sri Lanka, Rankoth Vehera's design was inspired by thtraditional stupas in Anuradhapura Maha Viharaya and bears a close resemblance to Ruwanwelisaya.

According to a stone inscription found in the vicinity of the stupa, it was initially named as "Ruwanweli Stupa". However, later, it was called Rankoth Vehera and had a circumference of 200m initially.

Located in the centre of a large square terrace,it has four entrances to the yard with four cardinal points. You can take the sandy path to the stupa for a walk, the peaceful atmosphere, which is a common factor at every temple here, can relax your mind for a while.
Both local and foreign travellers visit the Rankoth Vehera daily and engage with rituals without considering their born religious background. At the same time, you can know more about the murals and frescoes in the image house from the chief incumbent in the temple.

Tour Cost to Rankoth Vehera

Ticket fee for the Rankoth Vehera stupa: 1,500 INR per head
Trip in Polonnaruwa including Rankoth Vehera: 13,500 INR approx
Trip to Polonnaruwa and neighbouring cities like Kandy: 36,500 INR(approximately)

Tips

If you wish to travel during the afternoon, it is better to take a cap or an umbrella to take cover from the sun. Being a dry zone area, the city of Polonnaruwa won't generally be rainy, so don't worry about wet situations.

How To Reach Rankoth Vehera

Polonnaruwa is located 2 hours away from Sigiriya airport,4 hours from Kandy and is part of the cultural triangle of Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura.
Generally, tourists find buses to be the most convenient option for public transport in Sri Lanka as they are super cheap and frequent.
From Sigiriya airport, buses run regularly to Polonnaruwa from the main town of Dambulla nearby. From Dambulla, many public transport vehicles head to Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura, Kandy and Colombo.
Some trains head here from Colombo fort. But, one has to stop at Trincomalee first, then reach Gal Oya for Polonnaruwa.