Mihintale Evening Tour – Ancient City & Sunset Hike

Hike the sacred hills of Mihintale at sunset and explore ancient ruins with panoramic views—perfect for history lovers and sunset seekers alike.
Mihintale Evening Tour – Ancient City & Sunset Hike

Join us on a serene and culturally rich evening journey through the ancient sacred city of Mihintale, believed to be the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. This thoughtfully curated tour blends nature, history, and spirituality—perfect for travelers seeking more than just sightseeing.

We begin the tour at Nuwara Wewa, one of the largest man-made reservoirs in Sri Lanka, originally built by King Valagamba in the 1st century BC. Here, you'll enjoy stunning views of the vast waters reflecting the sky, and learn how ancient Sri Lankan engineering sustained entire civilizations.

Next, we take you to a tranquil meditation center, a hidden gem not often visited by tourists. At its heart stands a centuries-old banyan tree, revered for its spiritual energy and symbolic roots. The peaceful atmosphere invites you to pause, breathe, and connect with the sacred surroundings.

We then proceed to Kalu Diya Pokuna, a natural stone pond historically used by monks for ritual bathing and meditation. Surrounded by forest and carved rock, this site reflects the harmony between ancient Buddhist practice and nature.

Our journey continues to the Mihintale hospital complex, a fascinating archaeological site believed to be one of the oldest hospitals in the world. You'll walk through the ruins of treatment rooms, medicinal troughs, and stone inscriptions that offer insights into ancient healthcare systems.

A short walk brings us to the Mihintale Alms Hall (Dana Shalawa), where monks once gathered for daily meals. The massive stone troughs used for serving food are still visible—testaments to the simplicity and organization of monastic life.

As the sun begins to lower, we ascend to Aradhana Gala, the rock where Mahinda Thera is said to have first preached Buddhism to King Devanampiyatissa in 247 BC. The panoramic views from this sacred site are unforgettable, and the spiritual significance is palpable.

We conclude our tour at the majestic Mihintale Mahaseya, a grand white stupa that dominates the skyline. Arriving just in time for the sunset, you’ll witness the sky glowing behind the stupa’s dome, casting golden light across the sacred landscape—a truly peaceful and awe-inspiring end to the journey.

This tour offers more than just sightseeing—it’s a walk through history, spirituality, and natural beauty, all in one unforgettable evening.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.