Explore Mulkirigala

The temple is located at the summit of Mulkirigala Rock, which rises about 676 feet above the surrounding landscape. The site contains seven cave temples arranged across five terraced levels at varying heights

The Bo tree on the Upper Terrace is believed to have grown from one of the 32 saplings of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura, planted there during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa. Mulkirigala Temple is also thought to be one of the 64 temples built by King Kavantissa in the 3rd century BC, and it was originally known as “Muhudu Gira.” The stupa on the highest terrace is believed to enshrine relics of Lord Buddha, which were offered by King Saddhatissa.