Lovamahapaya (Brazen Palace)
Lovamahapaya, known as the Brazen Palace, was once a nine-storey monastic residence built from wood and metal. Today, its forest of stone pillars stands as a powerful reminder of the scale and sophistication of Anuradhapura’s monastic life.
History
Over 2,300 years of continuous devotion
Lovamahapaya was commissioned by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BC as a grand residence for monks within the sacred city.
Ancient chronicles describe a nine-storey structure with bronze or copper roof tiles, giving rise to the name “Brazen Palace.”
The palace is said to have housed thousands of monks, functioning as a key center of monastic administration and study.
Repeated invasions and fires led to the palace’s eventual collapse, leaving only the stone pillars that supported the upper floors.
The remaining pillars are arranged in a grid, offering a clear sense of the original building’s footprint and scale.
Opening Hours
Visit early or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and better light.
Expect larger crowds and a more devotional atmosphere.
When to Visit
The dry season offers clearer skies and comfortable walking across the open grounds. Early morning is quiet and serene, while late afternoon brings golden light on the stone pillars.
What to Wear
- Modest clothing is required — cover shoulders and knees.
- Light, breathable fabrics are best for the open, sunlit grounds.
- Remove shoes and hats when entering adjacent sacred terraces.
- Avoid leather items within religious precincts.
Getting There
Distance and transport from nearby railway stations
Anuradhapura New Town Railway Station
Transport Options
Anuradhapura Old Town Railway Station
Transport Options
Location Map
Photo Gallery
Visual highlights of Lovamahapaya (Brazen Palace)
The forest of stone pillars that once supported the Brazen Palace
Soft morning light across the grid of ancient pillars
Historic illustration depicting the ruins of the ancient Brazen Palace
Nearby Attractions
Places to explore close to Lovamahapaya (Brazen Palace)
Sri Maha Bodhi
100 m (2-minute walk)The sacred Bodhi tree, the oldest historically documented tree in the world.
Ruwanwelisaya Stupa
200 m (3-minute walk)The iconic white stupa and one of Sri Lanka’s most revered pilgrimage sites.
Thuparamaya
700 m (10-minute walk)Sri Lanka’s oldest stupa, enshrining the collarbone relic of the Buddha.
Isurumuniya
2 km (25-minute walk)Rock temple famed for stone carvings including the “Isurumuniya Lovers.”
What to Visit Next
Recommended stops after Lovamahapaya (Brazen Palace)
Sri Maha Bodhi
Just steps away, the sacred Bodhi tree is the most important pilgrimage site here.
Ruwanwelisaya Stupa
The great white stupa is the natural next stop on the sacred circuit.
Thuparamaya
Complete the sacred trio with Sri Lanka’s oldest stupa.
Isurumuniya
Add artistic depth with the famous rock carvings and pond setting.
Important to Know
Essential considerations before your visit
The site is open and sun-exposed — bring water and sun protection.
Stone pillars mark the footprint; avoid climbing on them.
This is an active sacred precinct — keep noise low and dress respectfully.
Photography is allowed outdoors; be mindful of worshippers nearby.
Poya days are busy with pilgrims and ceremonial activity.
Entry Fees
- Lovamahapaya is typically included in the Anuradhapura Sacred City ticket for foreign visitors.
- Recent ticket ranges for the Sacred City are commonly around LKR 1,500–2,000; confirm at the ticket office.
- SAARC nationals typically receive discounted rates; children under 12 are often free.
- Local visitors usually pay a nominal fee or donation.
Facilities Available
- Shoe-keeping areas near adjacent sacred terraces
- Public washrooms within the Sacred City zone
- Shaded seating around the main precinct
- Vendors selling water and offerings nearby
Significance
- A monumental monastic residence from the Anuradhapura era
- Once a nine-storey structure housing thousands of monks
- Part of the UNESCO-listed Sacred City of Anuradhapura
Signature Experiences
- Walk the grid of stone pillars and imagine the palace’s nine-storey scale
- Photograph the geometric layout with Ruwanwelisaya nearby
- Pair with Sri Maha Bodhi for a classic sacred city loop
- Visit at golden hour for dramatic shadows across the pillars
Travel Tips
- Allow 20–40 minutes to explore and photograph the pillar layout.
- Bring water; shade is limited around the open grounds.
- Wear easy slip-on shoes for nearby sacred terraces.
- Combine with Ruwanwelisaya and Sri Maha Bodhi in one walking route.
- Visit on weekdays for fewer crowds.
Plan Your Visit to Lovamahapaya (Brazen Palace)
Include this sacred site in your personalized Sri Lanka itinerary