Ambastala Dagaba (Sela Chethiya): The Sacred Stupa Where Buddhism Began in Sri Lanka

After climbing 1,840 ancient granite steps to the upper terrace of Mihintale, pilgrims and visitors are greeted by the Ambastala Dagaba (Sela Chethiya)—the very spot where Arahat Mahinda Thero, son of Emperor Ashoka, first met King Devanampiyatissa and introduced Buddhism to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BCE.

This sacred stupa, built by King Mahadatika Mahanaga (9–21 CE), is one of Sri Lanka’s 16 Solosmasthana—holy sites believed to have been visited by the Buddha himself. According to ancient chronicles, it enshrines a precious relic: the Buddha’s Urna Roma (hair between the eyebrows).

Historical & Religious Significance

1. The Meeting That Changed Sri Lanka

The Mahavamsa records that this was where Mahinda Thero stood when he called out to King Devanampiyatissa, who was hunting deer. Their encounter marked the official introduction of Buddhism to the island, transforming Sri Lanka’s spiritual and cultural landscape forever.

2. A Stupa Built on Sacred Ground

  • Constructed by King Mahanaga (1st century CE) to commemorate this historic meeting.
  • Later expanded into a Vatadage (circular relic house) in the 2nd–3rd century under King Kanittha Tissa (164–192 CE).
  • Believed to have been restored by King Sirimeghavanna (303–311 CE) and later kings after Tamil invasions.

3. Connection to the Buddha’s Visits

Sela Chethiya is one of five stupas at Mihintale and among the 16 Solosmasthana, as tradition holds that the Buddha visited this spot during his third journey to Sri Lanka.

Architectural Marvels of Ambastala Dagaba

1. Unique Stupa Design

  • The dagaba has an unusual shape—between a bell and a "heap of paddy" (rice mound).
  • Surrounded by two rows of 12-foot-tall octagonal pillars, similar to those at Thuparama Dagaba in Anuradhapura.

2. The Pillars & Their Purpose

  • Each pillar features exquisitely carved capitals with:
    • Lions or hansa birds marching left.
    • Rows of dwarfs facing forward.
  • Scholars debate whether these pillars supported a wooden roof or were used to hang festival lanterns (Parker, 1909).

3. The Statues: A Silent Testimony

Two damaged stone statues stand near the stupa:

  1. A Headless Buddha Statue – Missing arms and head, yet radiating serenity.
  2. King Devanampiyatissa’s Statue – Once adorned with:
    • A pear-shaped crown with a jeweled diadem.
    • Pendant earrings and a necklace.
    • A lotus-flower base (similar to Thuparama’s design).

Ambastala Dagaba Today

Though partially ruined, the stupa remains a powerful pilgrimage site, especially during Poson Poya (June), when thousands commemorate Mahinda’s arrival. The Vatadage ruins, pillars, and statues evoke the grandeur of ancient Sri Lankan Buddhist architecture.

Conclusion

The Ambastala Dagaba (Sela Chethiya) is more than just an ancient stupa; it’s the hallowed ground where Buddhism took root in Sri Lanka. Whether you seek history, spirituality, or architectural wonder, this sacred site offers a profound connection to the island’s Buddhist heritage.

Have you visited Sela Chethiya? Share your experience in the comments!

Meta Description: Discover Ambastala Dagaba (Sela Chethiya), the sacred stupa at Mihintale where Buddhism began in Sri Lanka. Explore its history, unique architecture, and spiritual significance!

Would you like any modifications or additional historical details? 😊


THE AUTHOR BY: I.D.M.V.B.ILANGANTHILAKA 

https://www.youtube.com/@StellarPath0722

https://www.pinterest.com/wimukthibi/_pins/

https://www.youtube.com/@SkylineNook-z7y

Location: 9G29+G4F, Unnamed Rd, Mihintale, Sri Lanka

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

King Dutugemunu: The Legendary Unifier of Sri Lanka (161–137 BCE)

Image
Introduction King Dutugemunu, one of Sri Lanka’s greatest monarchs, is celebrated for his heroic efforts in unifying the island under a single rule. His reign (161–137 BCE) marked the end of foreign domination and the beginning of a golden era in Sri Lankan history. Known for his bravery, leadership, and devotion to Buddhism, Dutugemunu remains an enduring symbol of national pride. Early Life and Ambition Born as Prince Gamini to King Kavantissa and Queen Viharamaha Devi of the Ruhuna Kingdom, Dutugemunu grew up during a time when the Chola King Elara ruled Anuradhapura. From a young age, he was determined to liberate the island from foreign rule, despite his father’s preference for peace. A famous incident illustrates his fiery spirit: At sixteen, frustrated by his father’s reluctance to wage war, Prince Gamini sent him a set of women’s clothes, implying that the king was avoiding battle like a coward. This bold act led to his temporary exile, where he lived in disguise in Kot...
Read more

The Majestic Mahakandarawa Reservoir: A Legacy of Ancient Sri Lankan Irrigation

Image
Nestled near the sacred Mihintale rock, the  Mahakandarawa Reservoir  stands as a testament to Sri Lanka’s ancient hydraulic civilization. With its breathtaking views and historical significance, this reservoir, once known as  Kanuwāpi, Kanavāpi, Kanavāri , or  Kanadiyadora,  has played a crucial role in the island’s irrigation heritage for centuries. A Glimpse into History According to the  Mahavamsa , Mahakandarawa was constructed during the reign of  King Mahasen (3rd century CE)  as part of his grand irrigation network. Historical records also mention renovations by  King Sena I (857 CE)  and  King Sena II (866-901 CE) , highlighting its long-standing importance. A  12th-century Tamil inscription  reveals fascinating details: The bund stretched  1,600 riyan (an ancient measurement)  in length. The reservoir was linked to smaller tanks like  Mihindu Wewa  (now known as Bula...
Read more

Exploring the Ancient Ruins of Mihintale Puvarasankulama Anula Devi Chethiya

Image
Nestled near the sacred Mihintale, the  Puvarasankulama Anula Devi Chethiya  remains one of Sri Lanka’s lesser-known yet historically significant archaeological sites. While pilgrims and tourists flock to Mihintale’s Aradhana Rock, Kaludiya Pokuna, and Rajagiri Caves, this ancient nunnery complex is rooted in Buddhist heritage. A Glimpse into History According to the Archaeological Department, this site is believed to be the ruins of a temple built by  Queen Viharamaha Devi  in the  2nd century BCE . More importantly, it is associated with  Queen Anula Devi , the chief queen of Sub-King Mahanaga (brother of King Devanampiyatissa) and  Sri Lanka’s first Buddhist nun . After  Arahant Mahinda Thero  introduced Buddhism to Sri Lanka, Queen Anula and 500 women attained the state of  "Sowan"  (stream-enterer) by listening to his teachings. However, since Buddhist monastic ordination for women required a bhikkhuni (nun), Mahinda Ther...
Read more