Mihintale is a mountain peak near Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, that holds a special significance for Buddhists. It is believed to be the site where the Buddhist monk Mahinda met King Devanampiyatissa and introduced Buddhism to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BCE. Since then, Mihintale has become a pilgrimage site for Buddhists, especially during the Poson full moon festival in June.
Mihintale consists of several religious monuments and structures, such as stupas, temples, caves, ponds and statues. The most prominent feature is the Maha Seya stupa, a white dome that stands on the top of the hill and can be seen from miles away. The stupa has a diameter of 41 meters and is surrounded by frangipani trees. It marks the spot where Mahinda and Devanampiyatissa had their historic encounter.
To reach the Maha Seya stupa, one has to climb about 1840 granite steps that lead up from the foot of the hill. Along the way, one can see other attractions such as the Kantaka Chaitiya stupa, which has beautiful carvings of elephants and lions, the Aradhana Gala rock, which offers a panoramic view of the surroundings, and the Mihindu Guha cave, where Mahinda is said to have resided.
Serenity and spiritual ambiance await at Mihintale, along with the opportunity to appreciate the natural splendor of the location’s surroundings. This historical and cultural landmark provides visitors with a chance to discover the roots of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, as well as its significant influence on society. For those who are interested in immersing themselves in Sri Lanka’s cultural background, Mihintale is an essential destination.
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