Regions · Regions
Mihintale
Cradle of Buddhism
About Mihintale
Mihintale is where, according to the chronicles, the monk Mahinda met the king and brought Buddhism to the island in the 3rd century BCE. Long flights of stone steps lead up to stupas, a monastery and a rock with wide views. It is the focus of the Poson festival on the June full moon. Go early, as the rock gets very hot, and remove your shoes at the sacred areas.
Why it's on our list
- Sacred hill
- Stupas and steps
- Poson festival
Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with Mihintale before you go.