Girihadu Seya

What?
This is an ancient Buddhist stupa in Thiriyai, believed to be the first stupa built in Sri Lanka.

Where?
It is located in the Trincomalee district and approximately 270 km from Colombo.

When?
It can be visited all year long.

Girihadu Seya is located 45km north-west of Trincomalee in Thiriyaya and is considered to be the first dagoba in Sri Lanka. It was built by two traders, Thapassu and Balluka. According to Buddhist annals, they have offered alms to the Buddha on the 50th day after attaining Buddhahood, but they didn’t know it was him. Buddha has given them his hair as a relic. At the entrance, a Bo tree and a gold Buddha statue donated by Thailand can be seen. Girihadu Seya is located on the top of a mountain, and there are around 300 steps leading to it. It is the highest point in the area and offers a stunning view.