Sri Lanka is a tropical South Asian nation located just south of India. Known for rich heritage and immense natural beauty; consisting of golden sand beaches, luscious forests and greenery, and magnificent mountainous landscapes, Sri Lanka is also referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’. Sri Lanka is also known for its thriving tourism and hospitality industry which is fuelled by the many wonderful historical, cultural and recreational attractions and landmarks in Sri Lanka.
Being among the holiest and culturally significant landmarks in Sri Lanka is Mihintale. This mountain peak located close to the holy city of Anuradhapura is the birth place of Buddhism of Sri Lanka as it is where the Buddhist monk Mahinda first preached a sermon on Buddhism to King Devanampiyatissa. This holy place is now one of the most popular religious and cultural landmarks and also an immensely popular pilgrimage site.
According to Holy Scriptures it was in 247BC that King Devanampiyatissa met Mahinda upon Mihintale sparking the birth of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Ever since then the site has been considered holy and is now home to several other religious landmarks and structures. From ancient times steps were cut into the rock of Mihintale making it accessible to all people, since King Devanampiyatissa constructed a structure for monks to reside in. In addition to the climb to the actual mountain peak where Arahat Mahinda delivered his legendary sermon to the King, one can also witness the Kantaka Chetiya; a large circular shaped stupa built upon the rock known for its magnificent architectural design, the Cave of Arahat Mahinda; the place of residence of Arahat Mahinda also home to the flat rock upon which he sat upon, the Maha Stupa, a stupa built at the summit of Mihintale, and the Kaludiya Pokuna; a beautiful pond which appears to have black water. The Poson Perehera, a grand Buddhist procession, is held during the full moon on June at the site of Mihintale.
For a memorable stay in a luxury hotel in Sigiriya make a reservation at the hotel Sigiriya, a tranquil and blissful hotel. Located in close proximity to the world renowned Sigiriya Rock fortress, this hotel offers accommodation in 79 stylish and elegantly appointed standard rooms. The hotel also offers a host of wellness facilities including Ayurveda and spa treatment, as well as recreational activities such as elephant rides, snorkelling, trekking, tours to religious and cultural sites and many more, making it one of the most recommendable hotels Sigiriya.
