The mountain where Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka, reached by a monumental stairway past ancient stupas and monastic ruins.
🕑 06:00–18:00
⏱ ~2.0 hr
🎟 Entry: LKR 500
Mihintale
A sacred mountain peak 12 km east of Anuradhapura, revered as the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
Overview
Mihintale is a cluster of hills laced with ancient stairways, stupas, cave dwellings and monastery ruins, held sacred as the site where Buddhism was introduced to the island. A grand flight of 1,840 granite steps climbs past the Kantaka Cetiya and the Ambasthala Dagoba to the summit, which offers sweeping views over the surrounding plains. It is an easy half-day excursion from Anuradhapura and a major pilgrimage destination, especially on Poson poya.
History
According to the chronicles, the missionary monk Mahinda, son of the Indian emperor Ashoka, met King Devanampiya Tissa here in 247 BCE and converted him to Buddhism, an event commemorated every year at the Poson full moon in June. The hill became one of the earliest and most important monastic complexes in Sri Lanka, with inscriptions recording the rules and endowments of its ancient monastery.
Attractions
Events & festivals
Poson Poya at Mihintale
Religious · Every June, on the Poson full moon
Tens of thousands of white-clad pilgrims climb Mihintale's 1,840 steps to mark the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka in 247 BC. Anuradhapura's stupas are wrapped in light and dansal stalls line every approach road.
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Travel tips
- Start the climb early in the morning to beat both the heat and the crowds.
- The 1,840 steps are steep in places; wear comfortable shoes for the ascent and carry water.
- You must remove shoes at the sacred upper terraces, so bring socks for the hot stone.
- Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered as this is an active pilgrimage site.
