The Lovamahapaya, also known as the Brazen Palace, is one of the most fascinating architectural
marvels in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
Built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BC, this magnificent nine-story palace once served
as a residence and assembly hall for monks.
According to ancient chronicles, the roof of Lovamahapaya was covered with bronze tiles, which
shimmered under the sunlight — giving the structure its famous name, “Brazen Palace.”
Although only the 1,600 granite pillars remain today, they still showcase the grandeur and skill of
ancient Sri Lankan builders.
Standing quietly between Ruwanwelisaya and Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, Lovamahapaya is a peaceful
and awe-inspiring site that reveals the sophistication of Anuradhapura’s golden era.
- Stone Pillars 🗿: Walk among the 1,600 granite columns ✨ — all perfectly aligned 📏👀
- Historical Plaques 📜: Learn about King Dutugemunu’s 👑 grand vision 💡🏛️
- Archaeological Remains 🔎: View ruins 🧱 of the ancient monastery complex 🏛️ nearby ✅
- Photography 📸: Capture the symmetry 🖼️ and shadows of the stone forest 🌳✨
- Nearby Sites 🗺️: Visit Ruwanwelisaya 🐘 and Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi 🌳 in one route 🧭💨
- From Anuradhapura Town: 10 minutes ⏱️ by tuk-tuk 🛺 or bicycle 🚲💨
- From Colombo: 4–5 hours ⏳ by car 🚗 or train 🚂🧭
- Nearby Landmarks 🗺️: Ruwanwelisaya 🐘, Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi 🌳, Thuparamaya 🗿✅
- Visit during golden hours 🌅/🌇 for perfect photos 📸✨
- Carry water 💧 — the area is open and sunny ☀️😎
- Combine this stop 🗺️ with Ruwanwelisaya 🐘 and Thuparamaya 🗿🧭
- Be respectful 🙏 — this was once a sacred monastic site 🤫🏛️
Morning Plan:
- 7:00 AM ⏰ – Arrive 🚶♀️ and explore the stone pillars 🗿🏛️
- 7:45 AM 🐘 – Visit Ruwanwelisaya 🔔 next door 🧭✨
- 9:00 AM 🌳 – End your walk at Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi 🙏😌
