Mirisawetiya Temple

Anuradhapura

Mirisawetiya Temple

Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura4.8

🏛️ Cultural Heritage🗿 Historical LandmarkBuddhist Temple

Mirisawetiya is a 2nd-century BC stupa built by King Dutugemunu to enshrine a Buddha relic on the spot where his royal scepter miraculously stuck in the ground.

Why visit Mirisawetiya Temple

Royal Apology and Legend: The name "Mirisawetiya" is linked to a legend of King Dutugemunu. He built the stupa as an apology for eating a chili curry without offering it to the monks first.
Historic and Religious Symbolism: The stupa was built on the spot where King Dutugemunu's scepter was planted and could not be moved. This scepter reportedly contained a sacred Buddha relic.
Architectural Frontispieces: The stupa's frontispieces, or Vahalkadas, were noted for their unparallel artistic value. They were a key feature that attracted early excavations.
A Testament to Ancient Renovation: Over the centuries, the stupa was renovated many times by various kings. This shows its long history and importance.
A Site of Pilgrimage and Historical Rediscovery: After centuries of being in ruins, the stupa was rediscovered and excavated in the 19th century. Today, it remains a vital site for Buddhist pilgrims and historians.

Entity

Government

Entrance

Paid

Wheelchair Access

Yes

Water

Available

Restaurants

Available

Toilets

Available

District: Anuradhapura

Reach

Any vehicle

Road Quality

Good

Public Transport

Available

Visitor Guidelines

Respect Rituals : Do not disturb monks or worshippers. Avoid loud talking, running, or touching sacred objects.
Cleanliness & Offerings : Do not litter. Offerings like flowers or incense should be placed only in designated areas.
Dress Code : Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing attire.
Entry Fees for International Visitors: Please note that foreign visitors are sometimes required to pay an entrance fee, so it is a smart idea to carry some local currency with you.

Loading…

Why visit Mirisawetiya Temple

Royal Apology and Legend: The name "Mirisawetiya" is linked to a legend of King Dutugemunu. He built the stupa as an apology for eating a chili curry without offering it to the monks first.

Historic and Religious Symbolism: The stupa was built on the spot where King Dutugemunu's scepter was planted and could not be moved. This scepter reportedly contained a sacred Buddha relic.

Architectural Frontispieces: The stupa's frontispieces, or Vahalkadas, were noted for their unparallel artistic value. They were a key feature that attracted early excavations.

A Testament to Ancient Renovation: Over the centuries, the stupa was renovated many times by various kings. This shows its long history and importance.

A Site of Pilgrimage and Historical Rediscovery: After centuries of being in ruins, the stupa was rediscovered and excavated in the 19th century. Today, it remains a vital site for Buddhist pilgrims and historians.

Visitor Guidelines

Respect Rituals : Do not disturb monks or worshippers. Avoid loud talking, running, or touching sacred objects.

Cleanliness & Offerings : Do not litter. Offerings like flowers or incense should be placed only in designated areas.

Dress Code : Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing attire.

Entry Fees for International Visitors: Please note that foreign visitors are sometimes required to pay an entrance fee, so it is a smart idea to carry some local currency with you.