Mihintale
මිහින්තලේ
The birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, where the monk Mahinda preached to King Tissa. Ancient stone steps of 1,840 lead to hilltop stupas and the Aradhana Gala boulder, with views over Anuradhapura.
According to tradition, in 247 BCE Mahinda, son of Emperor Ashoka, met King Devanampiya Tissa on this mountain and preached to him, bringing Buddhism to Sri Lanka. The climb follows ancient stone steps past the ruins of an ancient hospital and the monks' refectory. At the summit are the Ambasthala Dagaba, the Maha Seya and the Aradhana Gala (Aradhana Rock), which offers views over Anuradhapura. The entry fee is about LKR 1,000, and visitors must go barefoot in the sacred core area, as the stone gets very hot around midday. Mihintale is about 12 km from Anuradhapura.
Opening hours
About 06:00–18:00
Nearby sights
- Jetavanaramaya
- Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)
- Lovamahapaya (Brazen Palace)
- Samadhi Statue
- Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
- Ruwanwelisaya
- Thuparamaya
- Abhayagiri Vihāra