Trip to the Landmark of Buddhism in Sri Lanka - Mihintale

When Sri Lankans  are talking about the Buddhism always they start from Mihintale and Mihindu Thero. Mihintale can be identified as the birth place of Sri Lankan Buddhism, Because it was the place for the First time Mihindu Thero declared about the buddhism to Kind Devanampiyatissa who ruled Sri Lanka at that time.

Direction

If you start from Colombo and via Negambo> Kurunegala> Thambuttegama> Anuradhapura> Mihintale. When you expect to visit Anuradhpura ancient city that route might be more suitable. But you willing to travel along Dambulla and Sigiriya you have to choose Colombo> Negambo > Kurunegala> Dambulla> Mihintale directly via A9. You can see the alternative routes below.

Things to See

Actually during the visit to Mihintale you can see many ancient constructions and natural monuments which Sri Lankan believe as the Birth place of Sri Lankan Buddhism. 

• Mihindu Rock (Mihinthalaawa) the rock which Mihindu thero stood and introduce himself to King Devanampiyatissa.
• Kantaka Pagoda - Ancient pagoda which having great architecture 
• Old Monastery complex

Kantaka Pagoda

Old Monastery Complex

Remember

• Mihintale is one of attractive travelers destination in Anuradhpura. It is just 16km far from Anuradhapura city. Therefore do not forget to carry a Camera to capture all the beauty.
• There are so many monkeys and some of them are biting and attacking visitors. Specially when you climbing up long stairs to the higher land of Mihintale temple most of monkeys are staying by and try to attack visitors. Just keep in mind that not to show or give foods to them. and if you bring flowers just try to hide it when you pass the monkeys.
• Drink "Belimal" with Jaggery. It is very interesting herbal drink. 

Places to Stay

• Anjana Rest - Fair and Com portable 
• First House - Clean to Stay safe
• Miheen Hotel and Resort - Luxury and full option