Mihintale
North Central Province
About Mihintale
Mihintale is the birthplace of Sri Lankan Buddhism. On this forested mountain east of Anuradhapura, the missionary monk Mahinda - son of the Indian emperor Ashoka - met King Devanampiya Tissa during a hunt in 247 BC and converted him with a famous riddle, changing the island's history forever. Today a grand granite staircase of 1,840 steps, shaded by frangipani, climbs past the ruins of one of the world's oldest hospitals, monastic refectories, and inscription-covered caves to the great white Maha Seya stupa. The final scramble up bare rock to Aradhana Gala - the crag from which Mahinda is said to have preached - delivers a panorama over jungle and the distant white domes of Anuradhapura. At Poson full moon in June, hundreds of thousands of white-clad pilgrims ascend in one of Buddhism's great annual gatherings.
Top Activities
- ✓Climbing the 1,840-step grand staircase
- ✓Aradhana Gala rock scramble at sunset
- ✓Maha Seya stupa and Ambasthala dagoba
- ✓Ruins of the ancient monastic hospital
- ✓Combine with Anuradhapura's sacred city
Nearby Attractions
Travel Tips
Climb barefoot-friendly: socks help on hot stone around the sacred areas.
Late afternoon gives cooler steps and golden light from Aradhana Gala.
Poson (June full moon) is extraordinary but extremely crowded.
Quick Info
Best Time
May to September; June (Poson) for the pilgrimage
Weather
Hot and dry most of the year; climb early morning or late afternoon.
Estimated Daily Budget
8.3500°N, 80.5103°E
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