Mihintale: The Cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka
Explore Mihintale, the sacred mountain peak of Sri Lanka, where spirituality meets stunning landscapes and rich history.
Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka, Mihintale is a sacred mountain peak renowned as the birthplace of Buddhism on the island. Tourists flock to its ancient ruins, serene landscapes, and stunning panoramic views, making it a must-visit destination for spiritual seekers and history lovers alike. The site is accessible through a series of stone steps that lead to significant Buddhist relics and temples, inviting visitors to explore its rich cultural heritage.
A brief summary to Mihintale
- Mihintale, LK
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
- Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the stone steps and exploring the terrain.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities at the peak.
- Respect the local customs by dressing modestly and observing silence in sacred areas.
- Take your time to explore the ancient ruins and enjoy the stunning views along the way.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Anuradhapura, walk towards the main road (Sri Sangaraja Mawatha). Head northeast until you reach the intersection with the A9 highway. Turn right onto A9 and continue walking for about 1.5 kilometers. You will see signs for Mihintale. As you approach Mihintale, there will be a fork in the road; keep to the left, and you will see the entrance to Mihintale on your right.
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Tuk-tuk
Find a tuk-tuk stand in the city center of Anuradhapura. Inform the driver that you want to go to Mihintale. The ride will take approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. The driver will take you directly to the entrance of Mihintale, where you will be dropped off. Make sure to agree on the fare before you start your journey.
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Bicycle
Rent a bicycle from one of the rental shops in Anuradhapura. Head out of the city via the A9 highway towards Mihintale. The distance is about 13 kilometers and the route is mostly flat. Once you reach the fork near Mihintale, take the left road leading to the entrance of Mihintale. Be cautious of traffic and enjoy the ride!
Discover more about Mihintale
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old Sinhala Inscription සෙල්ලිපි/අභිලේඛන
1.2 km
Explore the Old Sinhala Inscription in Mihintale, a historical gem that embodies the rich cultural heritage and linguistic evolution of Sri Lanka.
Mahakanadarawa Stone Bridge
7.6 km
Explore the Mahakanadarawa Stone Bridge, an ancient engineering marvel in Anuradhapura, showcasing Sri Lanka's rich historical legacy amidst serene landscapes.
North Central Provincial Council Administrative Building Complex
9.6 km
Explore the North Central Provincial Council Administrative Building, a symbol of governance and modern architecture in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
Singha Kanuwa, සිංහ කනුව - Anuradhapura
10.0 km
Explore Singha Kanuwa in Anuradhapura, a historical landmark showcasing Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage and architectural brilliance.
Buddhist Railing
10.3 km
Discover the serenity and historical significance of the Buddhist Railing in Anuradhapura, a must-visit for those exploring Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist heritage.
Royal palace of the anuradhapura kingdom
10.8 km
Explore the Royal Palace of the Anuradhapura Kingdom, an ancient marvel steeped in history and culture, set in the heart of Sri Lanka.
Anuradhapura Newtown
11.1 km
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Ancient Lavetory Complex - පුරාණ වැසිකිලි සංකීර්ණය
11.2 km
Explore the Ancient Lavatory Complex in Anuradhapura, a stunning historical landmark revealing the sophisticated sanitation systems of ancient Sri Lankan civilization.
Ancient Round Well ඓතිහාසික වට පොකුණ
11.3 km
Explore the Ancient Round Well in Anuradhapura – a historical gem showcasing Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist heritage and architectural brilliance.
Pūraṇa Bhikkuṇī Upāsaya පූරණ භික්ෂුණී උපාසය
11.3 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Pūraṇa Bhikkuṇī Upāsaya, a must-visit historical landmark in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
King Dutugemunu Pillar දුටුගැමුණු ශිලා ස්ථම්භය
11.4 km
Explore the King Dutugemunu Pillar in Anuradhapura, a historical landmark symbolizing Sri Lanka's rich heritage and the legacy of its legendary king.
Isurumuniya clock Tower ඉසුරුමුණිය ඔරලෝසු කණුව
11.5 km
Discover the Isurumuniya Clock Tower, a historical landmark in Anuradhapura that showcases Sri Lanka's rich heritage and architectural brilliance.
Samuddhagiri Vihara Monastery
11.6 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Samuddhagiri Vihara Monastery in Anuradhapura, a haven for spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts alike.
WAWE
11.6 km
Explore WAWE, a remarkable historical landmark in Tirappane, where history and beauty intertwine in an unforgettable experience.
Unidentified structure
11.7 km
Uncover the mysteries of Anuradhapura's unidentified structure, a captivating historical landmark steeped in Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kaludiya Pokuna Thapowanaya caverns
0.0 km
Discover the sacred serenity of Kaludiya Pokuna Thapowanaya Caverns in Mihintale, a hidden gem of Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist heritage.
Rajagiri Caves
0.7 km
Discover the ancient serenity of Rajagiri Caves in Mihintale, a historic site steeped in Buddhist tradition and breathtaking natural beauty.
Kaludiya Pokuna Rd
0.9 km
Discover Mihintale, the ancient cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, featuring stunning stupas, rich history, and breathtaking natural landscapes.
Kaludiya Pokuna rock inscription
1.0 km
Discover Sri Lanka's ancient spirituality at Kaludiya Pokuna Rock Inscription, a serene escape into the past surrounded by stunning landscapes.
කලුදිය පොකුණ | Kaludiya Pokuna | களுடியா குளம்
1.0 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of Kaludiya Pokuna, a captivating archaeological site in Mihintale, Sri Lanka.
Lion's Pond (සිංහ පොකුණ)
1.6 km
Explore the historical charm and serene beauty of Lion's Pond in Mihintale, a captivating destination for all travelers seeking tranquility.
Archaeological Museum Mihintale - මිහින්තලේ පුරාවිද්යා කෞතුකාගාරය
1.6 km
Explore the rich history of Sri Lanka at the Archaeological Museum Mihintale, where ancient Buddhist artifacts reveal a vibrant past.
Mihintale Junction | මිහින්තලේ හංදිය
1.6 km
Discover the rich history and serene beauty of Mihintale Junction, Sri Lanka's gateway to ancient Buddhist heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
Mihinthale Udamaluwa
1.7 km
Explore Mihinthale Udamaluwa, a serene Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka, rich with history, spirituality, and breathtaking landscapes.
The Alms Hall (දානශාලාව)
1.7 km
Explore The Alms Hall in Mihintale, a stunning historical landmark that showcases Sri Lanka's rich heritage and provides a peaceful retreat for all visitors.
Mihinthalaya Rajamaha Viharaya
1.8 km
Discover the roots of Buddhism at Mihinthalaya Rajamaha Viharaya, the sacred site where the teachings of the Buddha first took root in Sri Lanka.
Mihindu Pagoda | මහා මහින්ද මහ රහතන් වහන්සේ ගේ ස්තූපය
1.8 km
Experience the spiritual tranquility and historical significance of Mihindu Pagoda, a gem in Sri Lanka's Buddhist heritage.
Maha Stupa මිහින්තලා මහා සෑය
1.8 km
Experience the spiritual serenity of Maha Stupa, a stunning Buddhist temple in Mihintale, Sri Lanka, rich in history and breathtaking views.
Mihintale Buddha Statue - මිහින්තලය බුද්ධ ප්රතිමාව
2.0 km
Explore the serene Mihintale Buddha Statue, a symbol of peace and Buddhism in Sri Lanka's rich cultural landscape.
Sela Chetiya Mihintale - සේල චෛත්ය
2.0 km
Explore the historical and spiritual serenity of Sela Chetiya Mihintale, a must-visit Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka's Mihintale region.
Essential places to dine
Nilpawana Restaurant
7.8 km
Discover authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Nilpawana Restaurant in Anuradhapura - where tradition meets taste.
Saliya Garden Sea Food Restaurant & Pool
8.0 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Saliya Garden Sea Food Restaurant & Pool in Anuradhapura - where flavor meets relaxation.
Avasta resturant and bar
9.0 km
Discover authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Avasta Restaurant and Bar in Anuradhapura - where culinary tradition meets modern dining.
Green Way Restaurant
9.1 km
Experience the rich flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine at Green Way Restaurant in Anuradhapura – your gateway to authentic culinary delights.
Sri Gayathri Cafe
9.4 km
Experience authentic vegetarian delights at Sri Gayathri Cafe in Anuradhapura – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
The Grand Family Restaurant
9.6 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors at The Grand Family Restaurant in Anuradhapura - where delicious meets affordable.
HotPot Family-Restaurant
9.6 km
Discover the flavors of Sri Lanka at HotPot Family-Restaurant - a must-visit destination for food lovers in Anuradhapura.
The Walkers Restaurant
9.6 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors at The Walkers Restaurant in Anuradhapura – where every dish tells a story.
Rangiri Restaurant - Anuradhapura
9.7 km
Discover authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Rangiri Restaurant in Anuradhapura - where every dish tells a story.
Rangiri Restaurant
9.7 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Rangiri Restaurant in Anuradhapura – a culinary delight for every traveler.
Vishwa Villa Restaurant
9.8 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Vishwa Villa Restaurant in Anuradhapura - a culinary gem offering delightful dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Rasa Gedara ( The House Of Taste )
9.9 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at Rasa Gedara, where every dish is a celebration of taste and tradition in Anuradhapura.
Restaurant family
9.9 km
Enjoy delightful family dining with authentic Sri Lankan flavors in the heart of Anuradhapura's vibrant culinary scene.
Alankulama Casserole Restaurant Bank Side
9.9 km
Discover authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Alankulama Casserole Restaurant by the tranquil riverside in Anuradhapura.
Chamy Restaurant Bank Town
10.1 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Chamy Restaurant in Bank Town – a must-visit dining spot for tourists seeking delightful cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
CLOTHING STORE ANURADHAPURA
5.5 km
Explore a blend of traditional and contemporary fashion at Clothing Store Anuradhapura, a unique shopping gem in Sri Lanka.
N O Wjesinghe DAress Point
5.9 km
Explore the vibrant styles of N O Wjesinghe DAress Point in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, and discover unique garments reflecting local heritage.
420 Rolling Papers
9.2 km
Explore Anuradhapura's local tobacco culture at 420 Rolling Papers, offering a variety of tobacco products and expert guidance.
Diliganz Fashion | Anuradhapura
9.4 km
Explore Diliganz Fashion in Anuradhapura for a unique blend of contemporary and traditional Sri Lankan clothing and accessories.
Walk Way Fashion
9.4 km
Explore the vibrant styles of Sri Lanka at Walk Way Fashion in Anuradhapura, offering unique clothing options and a warm shopping experience.
Multi Emporium
9.4 km
Explore Multi Emporium in Anuradhapura for all your hardware needs, where quality meets local craftsmanship.
Summer gift shop
9.7 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Summer Gift Shop, a treasure trove of Sri Lankan artistry in Anuradhapura.
Nirmani Dress Point
9.9 km
Discover the vibrant fashion of Sri Lanka at Nirmani Dress Point, the go-to clothing store in Anuradhapura for stylish attire and accessories.
Araliya Gift Center
9.9 km
Explore the rich craftsmanship of Sri Lanka at Araliya Gift Center, a treasure trove of unique gifts and souvenirs in Anuradhapura.
The Lover - Anuradhapura 01
10.1 km
Explore The Lover in Anuradhapura, where local craftsmanship meets modern fashion in a unique collection of accessories.
Signature Showroom
10.1 km
Explore the finest men's clothing and shoe collection at Signature Showroom in Anuradhapura, where style meets quality.
Volls
10.2 km
Discover unique fashion at Volls in Anuradhapura, blending local craftsmanship with contemporary styles for an unforgettable shopping experience.
CIB Shopping Center - Anuradhapura
10.3 km
Explore the vibrant CIB Shopping Center in Anuradhapura for trendy clothing and a unique shopping experience that reflects local culture.
ASB Fashion
10.7 km
Discover the vibrant fashion scene at ASB Fashion in Anuradhapura, where style meets tradition in a premier shopping destination.
Saylee Clothing- Branded Collection
10.7 km
Discover unique women's fashion in Anuradhapura at Saylee Clothing, where style meets local charm and quality craftsmanship.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
නිපාලගෙ ගෙදර
8.8 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Anuradhapura at නිපාලගෙ ගෙදර, where local culture meets a lively bar atmosphere.
Avasta Resort and Spa
9.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and culture at Avasta Resort and Spa – your ideal getaway in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
New Victoria wine stores
9.4 km
Discover the tranquil charm of New Victoria Wine Stores, offering a unique selection of local and international wines in Anuradhapura.
Poshana Mandiraya Ayurvedic Hospital Anuradhapura
9.5 km
Discover holistic healing at Poshana Mandiraya Ayurvedic Hospital in Anuradhapura, where ancient traditions meet modern wellness.
Yummy Restaurant & Juice Bar
9.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Sri Lanka at Yummy Restaurant & Juice Bar, a top destination for fresh juices and delicious local cuisine.
Hudo Lounge
9.6 km
Discover the cozy charm of Hudo Lounge in Anuradhapura, where local flavors meet a welcoming atmosphere for the perfect café experience.
CHILL (Restaurant and Sport corner)
9.6 km
Discover Chill in Anuradhapura: A lively bar and sports corner where excitement and relaxation meet for the ultimate social experience.
Bar & Resturant
10.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Anuradhapura at this popular bar and restaurant, perfect for tourists seeking relaxation and local cuisine.
Anu Café and Juice Bar
10.3 km
Discover Anu Café and Juice Bar in Anuradhapura for refreshing juices and local flavors amidst historical exploration.
Creston Park
10.6 km
Discover the flavors of Sri Lanka at Creston Park, a delightful restaurant in Anuradhapura with a diverse menu and warm hospitality.
Restaurant & bar
10.6 km
Discover Anuradhapura's nightlife at its best, where music, dance, and drinks create an unforgettable experience.
Danawwa Restaurant & Juice Bar
11.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine at Danawwa Restaurant & Juice Bar in Anuradhapura, where fresh ingredients meet friendly hospitality.
Bar
11.1 km
Savor authentic Sri Lankan cuisine in Anuradhapura's vibrant restaurant, where every dish tells a story of rich culinary traditions.
Rajasewana Resturant
11.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Anuradhapura at Rajasewana Restaurant, where local flavors meet a lively atmosphere.
Juice Bar
11.3 km
Discover the best of tropical refreshment at Anuradhapura's Juice Bar, where every drink is a burst of flavor and vitality.
