🌄✨ *Mihintale: Sri Lanka’s Sacred Mountain of Buddhism* 🏛️🙏

#summervacay Just **12km from Anuradhapura**, **Mihintale** is where **Buddhism was born in Sri Lanka** in 247 BCE. Climb its **1,840 granite steps** to ancient monasteries, white dagobas, and panoramic views that stir the soul. A *must* for pilgrims and history lovers! ### **🌟 *MUST-SEE HIGHLIGHTS*:** - **Ambasthala Dagoba:** The **white stupa** where King Devanampiyatissa met monk Mahinda, converting Sri Lanka to Buddhism. Spot the **“Aradhana Gala” rock where Mahinda preached**! 🗣️ - **Kantaka Cetiya:** A **2,200-year-old brick stupa** with intricate elephant carvings—one of Sri Lanka’s oldest. 🐘 - **360° Viewpoint:** At the summit, see **Anuradhapura’s ruins** and **tropical forests** unfold below. 🌿 ### **💡 *TRAVEL TIPS*:** - **Start Early:** Climb by **6 AM** to avoid heat and crowds. Wear **modest clothing** (shoulders/knees covered). - **Bring Water & Cash:** No shops atop; small fees (~500 LKR) apply at some sites. - **Pair with Anuradhapura:** Visit **Sri Maha Bodhi** (oldest living tree on Earth!) afterward. 🌳 ### **📸 *INSTA-WORTHY SPOTS*:** - **Silhouetted on the Great Staircase** at dawn. - **Posing beside the ancient stone lion guardstones**. 🦁 **#mihintale #srilankabuddhism #sacredhikes #hiddenhistory** *Mihintale isn’t just a mountain—it’s where a nation’s soul awakened.* Tread lightly. 👣 **🚗 *Getting There:* 30-min tuk-tuk from Anuradhapura (~2,000 LKR).** *Entry: ~500 LKR.* *P.S. Try *kottu roti* at a local shop post-climb!* 🍛🔥