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Joining full moon Poya meditation at Mihintale rock

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E
Emma S.•16410 rep•2

I want to experience a traditional Buddhist meditation session during the Vesak full moon at Mihintale. How do foreigners participate respectfully and are there herbal wellness centers nearby to stay at.

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culturetemples

7 Answers from travellers

✓Accepted Answer

Vesak Poya at Mihintale is profoundly sacred, as it is the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Foreigners are absolutely welcome. You must wear completely white clothing and behave quietly. Thousands of local pilgrims will be sitting on the sand meditating. There are several holistic and Ayurvedic guesthouses in nearby Anuradhapura that can host you.

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Bhante W.•4940 rep•1

Many local Ayurvedic practitioners in Anuradhapura specialize in herbal steam baths, which is the perfect way to relax your leg muscles after climbing those steps.

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Oliver T.•13105 rep•2

There will be free food stalls called Dansals along the road to Mihintale during Vesak. It is a beautiful tradition of giving.

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Liam P.•16370 rep•2

Take plenty of water. Even at night, the crowds and the humidity can be quite overwhelming during the climb.

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R
Ruwan D.•9570 rep•1

Do not turn your back to any Buddha statues when taking photos, and never use a flash while people are meditating.

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Maya K.•17535 rep•2

It is customary to observe Sil on Poya days, meaning taking eight or ten precepts, which includes fasting after midday. You do not have to do this as a foreigner, but it is good to understand the context of why the pilgrims are fasting.

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Dr. Aruni M.•10240 rep•1

Be prepared for the climb. There are exactly 1840 granite steps to reach the main terrace. Doing it barefoot alongside the pilgrims under the full moon is an amazing experience.

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Sienna B.•17090 rep•2

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