Digavapi Dagoba (another name for 'stupa') is a shrine in Sri Lanka sacred to Buddhists. Situated in the district of Ampara, Digavapi is a location of great historical and cultural significance. It is mentioned in the ancient chronicles of the Sinhalese (the major community of Sri Lanka) and it is said that the Buddha himself visited the site. Today it remains a venerated site and attracts a steady stream of devotees and sightseers. The valley in which this revered shrine is located is sparsely populated and tranquil, presenting an idyllic rural landscape. The picturesque lushly verdant countryside seems invitingly serene, providing a fitting backdrop for this revered location. The legend goes that the Buddha accompanied by 500 arhats visited the site and engaged in meditation; even today the locality seems to be an ideal place in which to meditate or relax with its pleasant leisurely ambience. Sadly today the stupa appears in a state of disrepair and the visitor can only imagine its majestic appearance in centuries past. With a circumference of 1,000 ft there is no doubt that the stupa was once a magnificent sight. It is thought that the dagoba was constructed by King Saddhatissa, who built the massive structure as a stupa which did not feature relics. According to chroniclers the king also provided a splendid jacket adorned with golden decorations and jewels to protect the stupa. It is also believed that the dagoba was refurbished by King Kavanthissa at a later date. Today however you will see, in addition to the ruins of the stupa, a number of typical temple buildings. There are a shrine room and a bo tree; this tree is sacred to Buddhists, and this particular tree is said to be a descendant of the tree that was placed in the ground when the temple was inaugurated. In the environs you will also see a 'devale' (temple dedicated to a deity) which is an attraction in its own right, attracting pilgrims as well as tourists. Couples interested in Sri Lanka honeymoon hotels will find an outstanding choice in the Maalu Maalu Resort & Spa. This excellent Sri Lanka resort offers fine accommodations with many modern amenities and helps you enjoy a truly memorable stay. Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+
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