description Dakkhina Stupa Overview
The Dakkhina Stupa is an ancient brick monument located in the sacred city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Constructed during the 2nd century BCE, the structure was historically misidentified for centuries as the tomb of the conquered Tamil king Elara. Modern archaeological consensus, however, identifies it as a Buddhist stupa, believed to have been built by King Saddha Tissa. Today, the site stands as an important religious and historical landmark, reflecting the early adoption and architectural development of Buddhism in the region.
help Dakkhina Stupa FAQ
Where is the Dakkhina Stupa?
The Dakkhina Stupa is in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, one of the island's major ancient sacred cities. It is an ancient brick monument within the historic religious landscape of Anuradhapura.
When was the Dakkhina Stupa built?
The monument is generally dated to the 2nd century BCE. That makes it part of Sri Lanka's early Anuradhapura period of Buddhist construction.
Was the Dakkhina Stupa really the tomb of King Elara?
For centuries it was misidentified as the tomb of Elara, a Tamil king associated with the Anuradhapura story. Modern archaeological consensus does not accept that identification as the reliable origin of the monument.
Why is the Dakkhina Stupa important?
It illustrates the long Buddhist architectural history of Anuradhapura and the way later traditions can reshape the interpretation of ancient monuments. Its brick construction and 2nd-century BCE date make it a valuable early site.
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