Rehabilitation of Yudaganawa Dagoba in Buttala, Sri Lanka

Yudaganawa dagoba in Uva province is one of the largest stupas in Sri Lanka which dates back to 2 nd century BC. Presently, this colossal stupa with a diameter about 91.2 m and reaching a height of 13 m is undergoing several issues which necessitate it to be rehabilitated. The stupa was found in ruins and grown with vegetation until it has been preserved by subsequent restoration efforts in the recent past. However, it is not standing at its original height well-matched with the circumference at its base. Further, existing formation of the structure, existing foundation and ground condition are unknown. This paper presents structural assessment of existing stupa and proposal for rehabilitation in order to build the stupa to its full height. A literature survey has been carried out to investigate the structural formation of stupas in ancient Sri Lanka. The geometry of the present stupa and the soil profile under the stupa were assessed. Material properties have been found with adequate laboratory testing. Presen