description Ambasthala Dagaba Overview
Ambasthala Dagaba is a Buddhist stupa at Mihintale in Sri Lanka, an ancient monastic complex associated with the introduction of Buddhism to the island. Tradition identifies the location with the meeting between the monk Mahinda and King Devanampiyatissa in the third century BCE. The white stupa stands on the Mihintale plateau near other religious monuments and remains a destination for Buddhist pilgrims and visitors to the archaeological site.
help Ambasthala Dagaba FAQ
Who built the Ambasthala Dagaba at Mihintale?
Tradition links the Ambasthala Dagaba to the historic meeting between the Buddhist monk Mahinda and King Devanampiyatissa in the third century BCE. While the exact construction date of the current structure is debated, the site is deeply tied to the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka.
Can visitors climb to the Ambasthala Dagaba today?
Yes, visitors to the Mihintale monastic complex in Sri Lanka can reach the stupa by climbing a long series of ancient stone steps. It remains an active pilgrimage site, particularly popular during the Poson full moon poya festival in June.
What does the name Ambasthala mean?
Ambasthala translates to the plateau of the mango tree, referencing a famous riddle involving a mango tree used by Mahinda to test King Devanampiyatissa. The stupa sits atop this historically significant flat plateau at Mihintale.
What other monuments are near the Ambasthala Dagaba?
The dagaba is part of the broader Mihintale complex, which includes the massive Maha Seya stupa and the Aradhana Gala meditation rock. These surrounding ruins make up one of Sri Lanka's most important ancient religious sites.
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