Historical background
Where Arahant Mahinda met King Devanampiyatissa in 247 BCE and introduced Buddhism to Sri Lanka — the birthplace of Sri Lankan Buddhism.
Religious significance
Annually on Poson Poya (June full moon), tens of thousands of pilgrims in white climb the 1,840 granite steps to the summit.
Visitor experience
An hour-long climb past ancient refectories, the Kantaka Chetiya and the Ambasthala Dagaba to the rock-cut summit, where the views over the Cultural Triangle plain are breathtaking.
Things to do
- ✦Sunrise climb to the summit dagoba
- ✦Visit the ancient hospital ruins
- ✦Aradhana Gala — the meditation rock
- ✦Photograph the reclining Buddha at the foot of the stairs
