Highlights
- Where Buddhism was first taught in Sri Lanka
- Climb past stupas, shrines and old stone steps
- Ambasthala marks where Mahinda met King Devanampiyatissa
- The Mahaseya stupa is said to hold relics of the Buddha
- Aradhana Gala is linked to Mahinda's first sermon
- Wide views over Anuradhapura's plains from the top
Overview
Mihintale, about 12 km east of Anuradhapura, is the place where Buddhism is said to have come to Sri Lanka. According to the chronicles, in the 3rd century BC the monk Mahinda, son of the Indian emperor Ashoka, met King Devanampiya Tissa here while the king was hunting, and converted him. The hill became a great monastery and remains a major pilgrimage site, especially at Poson in June.
The climb
A long stone stairway of around 1,800 steps, shaded by frangipani trees, leads up the hill in stages. Many sites lie along the way.
What you see
- The ancient hospital: ruins at the foot of the steps, one of the oldest known hospitals in the world.
- Kantaka Chetiya: a partly ruined stupa on the first landing, with fine carved panels of dwarfs, geese and other figures.
- The monks' refectory: with stone troughs and two 10th-century inscribed stone slabs listing the monastery's rules.
- Sinha Pokuna: a small pool with a carved lion, considered one of the finest carvings of its kind.
- Ambasthale Dagoba: built where Mahinda is believed to have met the king.
- Aradhana Gala: a rock from which Mahinda is said to have preached his first sermon. Climbing it is steep, with railings.
- Mahaseya Dagoba: on the summit, believed to hold relics, with wide views over the plains and Anuradhapura's stupas.
- Naga Pokuna: the "snake pool", with a five-headed cobra carved in the rock.
- Kaludiya Pokuna: the "black water pond", a quiet monastic complex on the western side with a pool, caves and a hall for monks.
How long it takes
Two to three hours.
When to go
Early morning, to avoid the heat; or late afternoon, for sunset. Poson poya in June brings huge crowds.
Getting there
Mihintale is about 20 to 30 minutes by road from Anuradhapura. Tuk-tuks and buses are easy to find.
Practical tips
- An entry ticket is charged for foreign visitors at the upper terrace; check the current rate.
- Cover shoulders and knees. Shoes are removed at the upper shrines; bring socks for hot stone.
- Carry water, and watch out for monkeys.
Combine with the Sri Maha Bodhi and Ruwanwelisaya, or join our Anuradhapura day tour. See things to do in Anuradhapura and Anuradhapura hotels.
Prices are as of October 2026 and may change.
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