temple · Anuradhapura

A sacred hill about 12.5 km east of Anuradhapura where Buddhism is said to have reached Sri Lanka, when the monk Mahinda met King Devanampiyatissa. A stairway of 1,840 granite steps climbs past ruins to the Maha Seya stupa and Aradhana Gala rock. It is the focus of the Poson festival every June.

Best time to visit

First light, before the rock heats up

Typical visit duration

2 to 3 hours

Tips

Charged separately from the Anuradhapura ticket. Shoes and hats come off near the top. Very crowded on Poson Poya in June. Watch your bags around the monkeys.